Official FCC announcements or public records

DeSantis Faces Backlash for Threatening Criminal Charges Over Abortion Ads

Oct 8, 2024, 02:00 PM

The administration of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is facing criticism for threatening criminal prosecution against television stations that air ads supporting Amendment 4, a ballot initiative aimed at overturning the state's near-total six-week abortion ban. The Florida Department of Health has issued cease and desist letters to media companies, warning of potential jail time for airing the 30-second pro-choice ad. This move has been condemned by FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, who emphasized the First Amendment rights of broadcasters to air political speech. Critics argue that this action represents a significant assault on freedom of speech and an abuse of state power.