FCC to consider ending merger ban among broadcast networks

WASHINGTON, Sept 30 (Reuters) - The Federal Communications Commission voted Tuesday to consider whether to lift the long-standing prohibition on a merger between any of the largest four broadcast networks and to consider relaxing other media ownership rules.

The FCC said it could reverse the rule that bars a merger among the "Big Four" networks: NBC, owned by Comcast CMCSA.O , Walt Disney Co's ABC DIS.N, Paramount Skydance's PSKY.O CBS or Fox FOXA.O after considering public comments. The FCC also said it is seeking public comment on whether to eliminate or revise a rule that limits a single entity from owning more than two of the four largest television stations in the same local market and a rule that limits the total number of local radio stations that may be owned in a single market.