STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER ROBERT M. McDOWELL
RE: Complaints Against Various Television Licensees Concerning Their February 25, 2003 
Broadcast of the Program “NYPD Blue”, Forfeiture Order, File Nos. EB-03-IH-0122 and 
EB-03-IH-0353
While I agree with the substance of the Commission’s decision today, I write separately 
to note my concerns about a procedural aspect to this proceeding.  After the Commission issued 
its notice of apparent liability for forfeiture, the stations were given only 17 days to file a 
response – far shorter than the 30 days that is our usual practice.  In this instance, the 52 stations, 
represented by the network and affiliates association, had the resources and wherewithal to 
prepare a comprehensive and timely response.  That may not always be the case.  I hope that in 
future proceedings, we will grant parties a more reasonable opportunity to respond to 
Commission charges.