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Congress agrees to 3-year moratorium on TV ratings system
July 8, 1997
Web posted at: 11:15 p.m. EDT (0315 GMT)WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Congress has agreed to delay for at least three years any legislation on a TV ratings system.
CNN has learned that four members of Congress have written a letter to broadcasters pledging the moratorium, but it is not clear yet what, if anything, the broadcasters have agreed to in return.
The letter is to be released by Democratic Reps. Ed Markey of Massachusetts, Jim Moran of Virginia, and John Spratt of South Carolina, and Dan Burton, a Republican from Indiana. Their intention is to indicate to broadcasters that Congress is willing to work with them to ensure a "better," content-based rating system.
But both sides reportedly still disagree over whether in return for the change, networks will get assurances that Congress will hold off on legislation affecting television ratings or content.
CNN was told that the letter is meant to show the industry that it can get what it wants from Congress if it indicates it is willing to improve its programming.
CNN reported last week that in return for a moratorium, the ratings "S" for sexual content, "V" for violence, "L" for crude language and "D" for dialogue containing sexual innuendo would be added to the current ratings.
Still under discussion, despite industry opposition, is "FV" for fantasy violence to be added to children's cartoons and action programs.
Related stories:
- Report: TV ratings may lure youngsters to racy shows - March 26, 1997
- Senate opens hearing on TV rating system - February 27, 1997
- U.S. TV industry unveils ratings system - December 19, 1996
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