FCC (FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION)

The FCC is an independent federal regulatory agency responsible directly to Congress. Established by the Communications Act of 1934, it is charged with establishing policies to govern interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. Its jurisdiction covers the 50 states and territories, the District of Columbia and U.S. possessions. Five Commissioners direct it. They are each appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. They serve staggered five-year terms. No more than three Commissioners can be members of the same political party. The President designates one of the Commissioners to serve as Chairman.