Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Communications law is a set of rules that make sure radio and TV stations provide good service and don't cause problems. The government is in charge of these rules because radio and TV signals go across state lines. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the group that makes and enforces these rules. They can control what is broadcasted on TV and radio, but states cannot.
Definition: Communications law is a set of rules that regulate radio and TV broadcasting to ensure good service and prevent chaos. The federal government is mostly in charge of broadcasting because it goes beyond state boundaries.
For example, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was created by Congress to regulate and control "radio communications" under the Communications Act of 1934. This includes the transmission of writing, signs, signals, pictures, and sounds of all kinds. The FCC also has the power to set standards for transmitting color television.
Because of extensive federal regulation, states have little to no role in governing broadcast communications. They cannot regulate the content of programs broadcasted, even if the TV station is in the state. They also cannot require motion pictures broadcasted over the station to be approved by a state board of censors.
Example: The FCC regulates the number of radio and TV stations that can operate in a particular area. This is to prevent overcrowding and interference between stations. The FCC also regulates the content of commercials to ensure they are not misleading or deceptive.
Explanation: This example illustrates how the FCC regulates broadcasting to ensure good service and prevent chaos. By limiting the number of stations in a particular area, the FCC prevents overcrowding and interference between stations. By regulating the content of commercials, the FCC ensures that consumers are not misled or deceived by false advertising.