Collins Urges FCC to Provide Orphan Counties with Immediate Access to In-State Broadcasting in the Midst of COVID-19

Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.) today sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai advocating for immediate access to in-state programming for northeast Georgia’s “orphan counties” to ensure Georgians are able to receive critical state-specific updates in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

“In recent weeks, I’ve heard from several constituents worried they will miss an important coronavirus-related order issued by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp or that they will miss updates regarding the number of Georgians affected by this pandemic,” Collins said. “It is unacceptable that Georgians cannot receive the information they need in the midst of a global health emergency simply because media conglomerates are weary to make the fix.”

Nearly 94,000 residents in Franklin, Elbert, Hart, and Stephens Counties receive their “local” news from neighboring states. Since Collins took office, he has consistently worked with county officials and the FCC to bring in-state broadcasting to these four counties. Now, he is working to expedite the process in light of this public health crisis.

“The time we currently find ourselves in demands that the three applications left on appeal, and any petitions or related documentation that require review, are expeditiously considered to ensure that these Georgians can receive critical news on the pandemic from their own state government.”