The FCC said on Thursday that they will fine six Clear Channel Communications owned radio stations over 18 alleged violations of broadcast decency standards. The alleged violations occurred on Stern’s April 9, 2003 program. The fines will be imposed for two separate violations that occurred during the broadcast. 

The FCC plans to hit six Clear Channel stations with the maximum fine of $27,500 for each violation: WBGG in Fort Lauderdale- WTKS-FM in Cocoa Beach, Fl-
WTFX-FM in Louisville, Ky- KIOZ in San Diego, Ca- WNVE in Honeoye Falls, N.Y.- WSDS-FM in Pittsburgh. 

In February, Clear Channel pulled Stern off their six stations that carried his program. Since the Janet Jackson Super Bowl incident the Feds have put increased pressure on broadcasters over adhering to decency standards.  According to Reuters, Clear Channel Radio president John Hogan said that Stern was a liability to broadcasters. "The Congress and the FCC are even beginning to look at revoking station licenses. That's a risk we're just not willing to take."

Stern commented about the fines on his website. "It is pretty shocking that governmental interference into our rights and free speech takes place in the U.S.," Stern wrote on his website. "It's hard to reconcile this with the 'land of the free' and the 'home of the brave."' 
 

Rant or Rave? Your turn, post you comments and thoughts on this news item. But hey keep it clean, we wouldn't want to have to wash your mouth out with Old Spice.

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