FCC Proposes $272,000 Penalty Against CBS Over Simulated EAS Tones
Commissioners proposed a $272,000 CBS fine for broadcasting simulated emergency alert system tones during a 2018 episode of the sitcom Young Sheldon, said a notice of apparent liability and release Monday. “The episode included a sound effect accompanying a tornado…
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warning, which the producers modified, but still audibly resembled actual EAS tones,” the release said. CBS argued “no reasonable viewer” would have mistaken the depiction for an actual EAS tone, but the FCC found that argument “unconvincing,” the NAL said. “The issue is whether the program included actual or simulated EAS Tones -- even if only for a few moments.” The agency recently fined several networks and broadcasters for similar violations and issued an advisory (see 1908150045). The Young Sheldon episode aired on “at least” 227 TV stations, including 15 CBS owned-and-operated stations, the release said. Commissioner Geoffrey Starks -- a former Enforcement Bureau official -- would supported further violations against CBS. “I also would have supported a finding of apparent violations of section 325(a) of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, prohibiting false distress communications,” Starks said. “Should broadcasters continue to run afoul of the clear and simple requirements imposed upon them by the Act and our Rules regarding the use of EAS tones, I would welcome additional enforcement.” CBS didn’t comment.