STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER MICHAEL O’RIELLY
Re: Elimination of Main Studio Rule, MB Docket No. 17-106
With this item, the Commission makes a much-needed move toward eliminating an unnecessary 
requirement on our nation’s broadcasters that restricts their ability to make decisions and allocate their 
resources in a way to best serve their audiences.  I have long contended that the main studio rule was ripe 
for elimination, but for so long it has seemed the Commission’s mindset was stuck in a bygone era when 
it comes to the media marketplace.  When it was implemented, this rule may have been the only available 
means to ensure that local broadcasters would remain engaged with and responsive to their communities.  
Now, however, with multiple electronic means of communication now overwhelmingly prevalent, the old 
rationale has dissolved, leaving the rule useful mostly as a means for potential micromanagement and 
“gotcha” setups of its licensees.  Notwithstanding any main studio rule, broadcasters are ever focused on 
serving the needs of the local listeners and viewers because that is the only proven way to ensure station 
success.  
So, I thank the Chairman for putting forth this proposal, and I am hopeful we can bring the 
proceeding to a decisive conclusion in the very near future.