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What RFK Jr.’s Unproven Autism Treatment Could Mean for Autistic Patients and Their Families

What RFK Jr.’s Unproven Autism Treatment Could Mean for Autistic Patients and Their Families

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Last September, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and President Donald Trump made a big announcement: The federal government had supposedly uncovered a clear link between autism and mothers taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) during their pregnancy. The proclamation was swiftly lambasted by scientists outside the administration, yet it’s only one facet of the Trump administration’s concerning new approach to autism.

That same day, RFK Jr. stated the Food and Drug Administration would soon approve a new treatment for autism, a form of folate (vitamin B9) known as leucovorin. As with the acetaminophen link, however, the evidence supporting the use of leucovorin for autism rests on shaky ground, to say the least. And many experts worry about what could happen to people with autism and their families if the drug starts to become widely taken.

“The idea of doing this for everyone—we’re going to see side effects, we’re going to see negative outcomes,” Audrey Brumback, a pediatric neurologist specializing in autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions at UT Health Austin, told Gizmodo.

A shaky case

Leucovorin (folinic acid) is a form of the vitamin folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folate has many functions, from helping the body make red blood cells to supporting the healthy development of a fetus. The latter is why doctors now advise pregnant women to take folic acid (a synthetic form of folate) supplements, since low folate levels raise the risk of children being born with neural tube birth defects. Leucovorin has historically been used to counteract the toxic side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs. But it’s also effective at treating a rare condition known as cerebral folate deficiency, or CFD.

CFD is characterized by having low folate levels in the brain but normal levels in blood (this distinction also makes it harder to detect). The low brain levels can then lead to neurological symptoms like seizures and intellectual disability, as well as trouble with speech and coordination; these symptoms usually begin to appear around the age of two.

The condition is commonly caused by defective antibodies that attack a protein called folate receptor alpha (important for transporting folate across the blood-brain barrier) but can also be tied to rare inherited genetic mutations in the FOLR1 gene, which encodes folate receptor alpha. Leucovorin can be transported through a different delivery method than folate receptor alpha, however, meaning it can raise folate levels in the brains of people with CFD. The earlier children with CFD are treated with leucovorin, the greater the chance they can avoid the developmental delays it causes, though the therapy can still help older patients.

Some of the symptoms of CFD are similar to those found in severe cases of autism, and some research has suggested people with autism are more likely to have CFD or antibodies to folate receptor alpha. Based on this early research, some scientists are genuinely hopeful about the potential of leucovorin to help children with both autism and CFD.

During the September announcement, RFK Jr. claimed leucovorin was an exciting therapy that might benefit “large numbers of children” with autism. Marty Makary, current FDA commissioner, went further, stating that leucovorin could possibly help “hundreds of thousands of kids,” which would represent a substantial portion of U.S. children diagnosed with autism (a 2016 study estimated that at least 1.5 million children in the U.S. had diagnosed autism, though it’s a figure that’s certainly risen since). And in its own announcement, HHS stated that leucovorin would become the first “FDA-recognized therapeutic for children with cerebral folate deficiency and autistic symptoms.”

Yet the actual language of the FDA decision only extends the labeling of leucovorin to treat CFD, with barely a mention of autism. And plenty of scientists and doctors in the field aren’t so optimistic about the drug’s future as an autism treatment.

“The idea of having a medicine be used off-label is not new, and that in itself is not a problem. It’s just, what are we basing this recommendation on?” Brumback said. “This is not a strong evidence base. We’re basically still at the anecdote phase.”

The research supporting leucovorin for treating autism is remarkably thin, and it’s gotten even thinner lately. Last week, the European Journal of Pediatrics retracted a trial testing leucovorin supplements in children with autism after outside scientists discovered statistical inconsistencies that cast doubt on the study’s results and conclusions (the authors stated they intended to revise and resubmit their study). The trial was one of only five such trials conducted so far, and the largest one to date, with 77 children.

These studies aside, there isn’t much substantial data supporting the basic premises underlying the therapy. Scientists aren’t certain if children with autism really are more likely to have CFD, or if CFD or its causes (antibodies to folate receptor alpha or FOLR1 mutations) can be a driver of autism. We’re also not sure whether CFD can be reliably detected through screening for antibody levels, a method used in some studies.

Autism is a complex condition that can be caused by many different things that happen early on in development, though genetic factors play a major role. So it’s possible that some children’s autism could be closely tied to CFD or its causes. But that subset, even if it exists, isn’t likely to reach into the hundreds of thousands, according to Shafali Jeste, a behavioral child neurologist.

“Autism is extremely heterogeneous, and it’s a behavioral diagnosis that’s based on thousands of different causes and profiles and brain pathways. So it’s very unlikely we’re going to have one pill that just ubiquitously addresses a core symptom,” said Jeste, who is chair of pediatrics at the University of California, Los Angeles. “And so that’s why I think when medications like leucovorin get touted as this cure or treatment for the core symptoms of autism that works in all kids, it’s problematic.”

Citing the lack of robust evidence, organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics have recommended against the routine use of leucovorin for autism. But both Jeste and Brumback have encountered families who have asked about the treatment or who are currently using it for their children. Jeste doesn’t prescribe leucovorin herself, while Brumback has stopped issuing new prescriptions since the Trump announcement. But they’re willing to talk to families about the treatment and to support those who decide to use it.

“I will never judge because I think that parents are trying to do right by their children. So it’s very appropriate to wonder about leucovorin and ask,” Jeste said. “I am very open to answering questions and being honest that we just don’t have that evidence right now.”

While leucovorin is generally well-tolerated when used for chemotherapy, it isn’t risk-free either. The AAP notes that it can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and alopecia. And there’s at least the possibility that it could have more serious complications when used long-term for autism.

“This is a very specific population of people who are undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. And so there are side effects of taking the vitamins in high doses that we probably wouldn’t notice in that population,” Brumback said, noting that some other forms of vitamin B can cause nerve damage when taken in large doses. “For me, that’s enough to say primum non nocere [Latin for “First, do no harm”]. That’s especially true for the kids who are most severe, who can’t communicate if they’re in pain or in discomfort; having something that could potentially cause neuropathy is a nonstarter for me.”

Brumback and Jeste are also both specialists who tend to see patients with more profound autism. And they worry families prescribed leucovorin by general practitioners might be less likely to get proper follow-up and care. Some people could also turn to leucovorin supplements that are far less regulated and could be less safe to consume than the prescription version.

The future of autism treatment

One probable reason leucovorin is getting the spotlight from the Trump administration is the lack of other easily adoptable treatments for autism, particularly in the most severe cases. Since taking over HHS, RFK Jr. has promised to deliver new insights into autism while claiming that researchers haven’t done enough to find concrete answers.

Yet there actually have been genuine strides lately in developing effective behavioral interventions for autism that can improve people’s quality of life, Jeste says. Within the next 10 years, she’s even hopeful we will start to develop treatments for severe cases of autism strongly linked to specific genetic mutations.

“The one upside of this whole leucovorin conversation has been that it’s forced us as a medical and scientific community to be more rigorous in how we talk about science, how we talk about what we know, and why we may have skepticism about certain studies,” she said.

In the most likely scenario, leucovorin will follow the example of secretin, a hormone that similarly showed early promise in the 1990s but crashed to the ground when multiple clinical trials failed to validate that promise. If that’s true, then the drug could just end up being a curious footnote in the history of autism research.

That said, RFK Jr. and his allies are already setting the stage for the government to officially endorse his worst pet theories about autism. He’s refused to accept the mainstream consensus that rising rates of reported autism are largely caused by expanded diagnostic criteria and greater awareness, for instance. Last year, he ordered HHS to launch a new study examining the supposed link between vaccines and autism—a link debunked by piles of research conducted over the past several decades.

So even if the hype behind leucovorin isn’t validated and it never becomes widely used, Kennedy may still succeed in further stoking his anti-science agenda.

“I think it’s put parents in a very difficult position because they don’t know who to trust and who to listen to. We have a government saying that we as a medical community are not essentially doing right by our patients. I mean, that is a really hard message to hear,” Jeste said. “So I’m very sympathetic to the uncertainty and confusion that this has created.”

While RFK might profess to have the best interests in mind of people with autism, he seems to have antiquated ideas about the lives they lead. In April 2025, he stated that autism “destroy families” and that children with autism “will never pay taxes, they’ll never hold a job, they’ll never play baseball, they’ll never write a poem, they’ll never go out on a date.”

Of course, plenty of people with autism have and will go on to do all those things. And even for the most severe cases of autism, it’s more often the lack of support, resources, and societal understanding that causes people and their families to suffer greatly than the condition itself. People with autism deserve recognition, respect, and quality care, which includes interventions and treatments strongly supported by evidence. That’s something that Brumback hopes isn’t forgotten in all of this mess.

“To have autism is not to be pitied; it’s not to be seen as something that a family should be embarrassed about—it’s part of life,” she said. “I want that to be the message of positivity; to help people where they’re at and to just have an appreciation for human life.”

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It turns out that even San Francisco mayor Daniel Lurie, who once declared that the city should be a testbed for emerging tech, has his limits. Especially when that emerging tech creates a massive hours-long traffic jam that leaves thousands at a standstill.

Mayor Lurie has asked state regulators to bolster rules for autonomous vehicles nearly two weeks after Waymo robotaxis became immobile in heavy July 4 traffic, ran out of power, and blocked key streets, further compounding the gridlock. The traffic jam, which trapped municipal shuttles, became a citywide problem that affected thousands of people.

In his letter to the state Department of Transportation, which was viewed by TechCrunch, Lurie pointed to two events — a widespread power outage in December and the Golden Gate Bridge fireworks show on July 4 that attracted 100,000 spectators — both of which led to dozens of stranded Waymo vehicles and paralyzed traffic. The San Francisco Chronicle first reported on the letter.

The events, he said in the letter, “demonstrated that California’s current regulatory framework does not adequately address how autonomous vehicles operate during major incidents, planned or not. California’s challenge now is not just whether autonomous vehicles can operate safely under normal conditions, but also whether they can perform reliably during extraordinary ones.”

Lurie said autonomous vehicle manufacturers should be able to demonstrate four “core operational capabilities” and asked the California Department of Transportation to establish statewide standards to prevent future problems like the July 4 gridlock incident.

Under Lurie’s vision, companies would be required to immediately remove or relocate robotaxis from active travel lanes to keep people moving and be required to be able to adapt in real time, adjusting their routes, service area, and pickup and drop-off locations. Companies would also have to share real-time operations data with local agencies, including service disruptions, the locations of immobile robotaxis, and recovery efforts as well as demonstrate through testing that they can handle large influxes of people and traffic.

TechCrunch has reached out to Waymo for comment. The article will be updated once the company responds.

Any company that wants to operate a robotaxi service in California has to successfully navigate two testing and deployment permit processes, one administered by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and the other by the Public Utilities Commission. California’s existing regulatory framework is stricter than that of other states like Texas and Arizona, but that hasn’t dissuaded companies from trying to operate there.

San Francisco and the wider area that stretches south into Silicon Valley have long been a testbed for autonomous vehicle technology. Six companies, including Nuro, Waymo, and Zoox, hold driverless testing permits, which allow the vehicles to drive without a human safety operator behind the wheel.

But the area has also become the launch point for commercial services, which requires other permits from the DMV and CPUC.

Waymo is the largest, with an estimated 1,000 robotaxis operating in the Bay Area today. But there are plenty of others either testing or poised to launch commercial operations, including Amazon-owned Zoox as well as a premium robotaxi service that will be operated by Uber. Tesla has a branded robotaxi service but it doesn’t use driverless vehicles, nor does it have the permits to do so. Instead, Tesla has a charter transportation permit, which allows its own drivers to pick up and drop off riders throughout San Francisco in vehicles equipped with its advanced driver-assistance system rather than fully autonomous software.

Waymo’s scale has made it the focal point for regulators in San Francisco and beyond. The company now operates in 11 cities and has said it completes more than 500,000 paid rides every week. In San Francisco, Lurie noted that Waymo had agreed to restrict its service on July 4 near the waterfront and had even assigned a representative to the city’s emergency center. But that wasn’t enough to keep the Waymos out of the heavy traffic that occurred outside of that district.

Lurie said these voluntary actions are no longer enough — a reflection of just how big Waymo’s fleet has become. He said the four proposed requirements “will not undermine autonomous vehicles; they will strengthen them.”

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

#San #Francisco #mayor #pushes #tougher #rules #Waymo #traffic #fiasco #TechCrunchrobotaxis,Waymo">San Francisco mayor pushes for tougher rules after the Waymo traffic fiasco | TechCrunch It turns out that even San Francisco mayor Daniel Lurie, who once declared that the city should be a testbed for emerging tech, has his limits. Especially when that emerging tech creates a massive hours-long traffic jam that leaves thousands at a standstill. Mayor Lurie has asked state regulators to bolster rules for autonomous vehicles nearly two weeks after Waymo robotaxis became immobile in heavy July 4 traffic, ran out of power, and blocked key streets, further compounding the gridlock. The traffic jam, which trapped municipal shuttles, became a citywide problem that affected thousands of people. In his letter to the state Department of Transportation, which was viewed by TechCrunch, Lurie pointed to two events — a widespread power outage in December and the Golden Gate Bridge fireworks show on July 4 that attracted 100,000 spectators — both of which led to dozens of stranded Waymo vehicles and paralyzed traffic. The San Francisco Chronicle first reported on the letter. The events, he said in the letter, “demonstrated that California’s current regulatory framework does not adequately address how autonomous vehicles operate during major incidents, planned or not. California’s challenge now is not just whether autonomous vehicles can operate safely under normal conditions, but also whether they can perform reliably during extraordinary ones.” Lurie said autonomous vehicle manufacturers should be able to demonstrate four “core operational capabilities” and asked the California Department of Transportation to establish statewide standards to prevent future problems like the July 4 gridlock incident. Under Lurie’s vision, companies would be required to immediately remove or relocate robotaxis from active travel lanes to keep people moving and be required to be able to adapt in real time, adjusting their routes, service area, and pickup and drop-off locations. Companies would also have to share real-time operations data with local agencies, including service disruptions, the locations of immobile robotaxis, and recovery efforts as well as demonstrate through testing that they can handle large influxes of people and traffic. TechCrunch has reached out to Waymo for comment. The article will be updated once the company responds. Any company that wants to operate a robotaxi service in California has to successfully navigate two testing and deployment permit processes, one administered by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and the other by the Public Utilities Commission. California’s existing regulatory framework is stricter than that of other states like Texas and Arizona, but that hasn’t dissuaded companies from trying to operate there. San Francisco and the wider area that stretches south into Silicon Valley have long been a testbed for autonomous vehicle technology. Six companies, including Nuro, Waymo, and Zoox, hold driverless testing permits, which allow the vehicles to drive without a human safety operator behind the wheel. But the area has also become the launch point for commercial services, which requires other permits from the DMV and CPUC. Waymo is the largest, with an estimated 1,000 robotaxis operating in the Bay Area today. But there are plenty of others either testing or poised to launch commercial operations, including Amazon-owned Zoox as well as a premium robotaxi service that will be operated by Uber. Tesla has a branded robotaxi service but it doesn’t use driverless vehicles, nor does it have the permits to do so. Instead, Tesla has a charter transportation permit, which allows its own drivers to pick up and drop off riders throughout San Francisco in vehicles equipped with its advanced driver-assistance system rather than fully autonomous software. Waymo’s scale has made it the focal point for regulators in San Francisco and beyond. The company now operates in 11 cities and has said it completes more than 500,000 paid rides every week. In San Francisco, Lurie noted that Waymo had agreed to restrict its service on July 4 near the waterfront and had even assigned a representative to the city’s emergency center. But that wasn’t enough to keep the Waymos out of the heavy traffic that occurred outside of that district. Lurie said these voluntary actions are no longer enough — a reflection of just how big Waymo’s fleet has become. He said the four proposed requirements “will not undermine autonomous vehicles; they will strengthen them.” When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.#San #Francisco #mayor #pushes #tougher #rules #Waymo #traffic #fiasco #TechCrunchrobotaxis,Waymo

testbed for emerging tech, has his limits. Especially when that emerging tech creates a massive hours-long traffic jam that leaves thousands at a standstill.

Mayor Lurie has asked state regulators to bolster rules for autonomous vehicles nearly two weeks after Waymo robotaxis became immobile in heavy July 4 traffic, ran out of power, and blocked key streets, further compounding the gridlock. The traffic jam, which trapped municipal shuttles, became a citywide problem that affected thousands of people.

In his letter to the state Department of Transportation, which was viewed by TechCrunch, Lurie pointed to two events — a widespread power outage in December and the Golden Gate Bridge fireworks show on July 4 that attracted 100,000 spectators — both of which led to dozens of stranded Waymo vehicles and paralyzed traffic. The San Francisco Chronicle first reported on the letter.

The events, he said in the letter, “demonstrated that California’s current regulatory framework does not adequately address how autonomous vehicles operate during major incidents, planned or not. California’s challenge now is not just whether autonomous vehicles can operate safely under normal conditions, but also whether they can perform reliably during extraordinary ones.”

Lurie said autonomous vehicle manufacturers should be able to demonstrate four “core operational capabilities” and asked the California Department of Transportation to establish statewide standards to prevent future problems like the July 4 gridlock incident.

Under Lurie’s vision, companies would be required to immediately remove or relocate robotaxis from active travel lanes to keep people moving and be required to be able to adapt in real time, adjusting their routes, service area, and pickup and drop-off locations. Companies would also have to share real-time operations data with local agencies, including service disruptions, the locations of immobile robotaxis, and recovery efforts as well as demonstrate through testing that they can handle large influxes of people and traffic.

TechCrunch has reached out to Waymo for comment. The article will be updated once the company responds.

Any company that wants to operate a robotaxi service in California has to successfully navigate two testing and deployment permit processes, one administered by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and the other by the Public Utilities Commission. California’s existing regulatory framework is stricter than that of other states like Texas and Arizona, but that hasn’t dissuaded companies from trying to operate there.

San Francisco and the wider area that stretches south into Silicon Valley have long been a testbed for autonomous vehicle technology. Six companies, including Nuro, Waymo, and Zoox, hold driverless testing permits, which allow the vehicles to drive without a human safety operator behind the wheel.

But the area has also become the launch point for commercial services, which requires other permits from the DMV and CPUC.

Waymo is the largest, with an estimated 1,000 robotaxis operating in the Bay Area today. But there are plenty of others either testing or poised to launch commercial operations, including Amazon-owned Zoox as well as a premium robotaxi service that will be operated by Uber. Tesla has a branded robotaxi service but it doesn’t use driverless vehicles, nor does it have the permits to do so. Instead, Tesla has a charter transportation permit, which allows its own drivers to pick up and drop off riders throughout San Francisco in vehicles equipped with its advanced driver-assistance system rather than fully autonomous software.

Waymo’s scale has made it the focal point for regulators in San Francisco and beyond. The company now operates in 11 cities and has said it completes more than 500,000 paid rides every week. In San Francisco, Lurie noted that Waymo had agreed to restrict its service on July 4 near the waterfront and had even assigned a representative to the city’s emergency center. But that wasn’t enough to keep the Waymos out of the heavy traffic that occurred outside of that district.

Lurie said these voluntary actions are no longer enough — a reflection of just how big Waymo’s fleet has become. He said the four proposed requirements “will not undermine autonomous vehicles; they will strengthen them.”

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

#San #Francisco #mayor #pushes #tougher #rules #Waymo #traffic #fiasco #TechCrunchrobotaxis,Waymo">San Francisco mayor pushes for tougher rules after the Waymo traffic fiasco | TechCrunch

It turns out that even San Francisco mayor Daniel Lurie, who once declared that the city should be a testbed for emerging tech, has his limits. Especially when that emerging tech creates a massive hours-long traffic jam that leaves thousands at a standstill.

Mayor Lurie has asked state regulators to bolster rules for autonomous vehicles nearly two weeks after Waymo robotaxis became immobile in heavy July 4 traffic, ran out of power, and blocked key streets, further compounding the gridlock. The traffic jam, which trapped municipal shuttles, became a citywide problem that affected thousands of people.

In his letter to the state Department of Transportation, which was viewed by TechCrunch, Lurie pointed to two events — a widespread power outage in December and the Golden Gate Bridge fireworks show on July 4 that attracted 100,000 spectators — both of which led to dozens of stranded Waymo vehicles and paralyzed traffic. The San Francisco Chronicle first reported on the letter.

The events, he said in the letter, “demonstrated that California’s current regulatory framework does not adequately address how autonomous vehicles operate during major incidents, planned or not. California’s challenge now is not just whether autonomous vehicles can operate safely under normal conditions, but also whether they can perform reliably during extraordinary ones.”

Lurie said autonomous vehicle manufacturers should be able to demonstrate four “core operational capabilities” and asked the California Department of Transportation to establish statewide standards to prevent future problems like the July 4 gridlock incident.

Under Lurie’s vision, companies would be required to immediately remove or relocate robotaxis from active travel lanes to keep people moving and be required to be able to adapt in real time, adjusting their routes, service area, and pickup and drop-off locations. Companies would also have to share real-time operations data with local agencies, including service disruptions, the locations of immobile robotaxis, and recovery efforts as well as demonstrate through testing that they can handle large influxes of people and traffic.

TechCrunch has reached out to Waymo for comment. The article will be updated once the company responds.

Any company that wants to operate a robotaxi service in California has to successfully navigate two testing and deployment permit processes, one administered by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and the other by the Public Utilities Commission. California’s existing regulatory framework is stricter than that of other states like Texas and Arizona, but that hasn’t dissuaded companies from trying to operate there.

San Francisco and the wider area that stretches south into Silicon Valley have long been a testbed for autonomous vehicle technology. Six companies, including Nuro, Waymo, and Zoox, hold driverless testing permits, which allow the vehicles to drive without a human safety operator behind the wheel.

But the area has also become the launch point for commercial services, which requires other permits from the DMV and CPUC.

Waymo is the largest, with an estimated 1,000 robotaxis operating in the Bay Area today. But there are plenty of others either testing or poised to launch commercial operations, including Amazon-owned Zoox as well as a premium robotaxi service that will be operated by Uber. Tesla has a branded robotaxi service but it doesn’t use driverless vehicles, nor does it have the permits to do so. Instead, Tesla has a charter transportation permit, which allows its own drivers to pick up and drop off riders throughout San Francisco in vehicles equipped with its advanced driver-assistance system rather than fully autonomous software.

Waymo’s scale has made it the focal point for regulators in San Francisco and beyond. The company now operates in 11 cities and has said it completes more than 500,000 paid rides every week. In San Francisco, Lurie noted that Waymo had agreed to restrict its service on July 4 near the waterfront and had even assigned a representative to the city’s emergency center. But that wasn’t enough to keep the Waymos out of the heavy traffic that occurred outside of that district.

Lurie said these voluntary actions are no longer enough — a reflection of just how big Waymo’s fleet has become. He said the four proposed requirements “will not undermine autonomous vehicles; they will strengthen them.”

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

#San #Francisco #mayor #pushes #tougher #rules #Waymo #traffic #fiasco #TechCrunchrobotaxis,Waymo
newer iPads, it is not available on many older devices. However, you do have several options for checking your battery health. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check battery health on older iPads and share some useful tips to help extend battery life.

Which iPads Support Apple’s Built-in Battery Health Feature?

Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature for selected iPad models. If your iPad supports it, you can view important battery information in the Settings app without installing any additional apps. This feature is available for iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad (A16), and newer iPads.

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Tap Battery.
  3. Open Battery Health.
    Apple Doesn’t Show Battery Health on Older iPads—Here’s How to Check It Anyway Checking your battery health will not only provide you with information about your iPad’s performance but also indicate whether you need to replace your device. Although Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature on newer iPads, it is not available on many older devices. However, you do have several options for checking your battery health. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check battery health on older iPads and share some useful tips to help extend battery life. Which iPads Support Apple’s Built-in Battery Health Feature? Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature for selected iPad models. If your iPad supports it, you can view important battery information in the Settings app without installing any additional apps. This feature is available for iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad (A16), and newer iPads. Go to Settings. Tap Battery. Open Battery Health. View details such as Maximum Capacity, Cycle Count, Battery Status, Manufacturing Date, First Use Date, and the 80% Charging Limit. If you have an old iPad, you won’t see the Battery Health option in the Settings menu. The reason behind this restriction remains unknown, as Apple has not disclosed it yet. The old operating system of these iPads does not even support the Battery Health menu. How to Check Battery Health on Older iPads Apple provides an online battery diagnostic process for iPads that do not have the Battery Health option. This is the proper way to diagnose your device’s battery without downloading any additional software. First, contact Apple Support and describe your battery problems, which may include rapid battery drain, slow charging, and automatic shutdowns of your iPad. Apple Support will conduct a remote battery diagnostic on your iPad. They will be able to tell you all the vital information regarding your battery. Use coconutBattery on a Mac Another way to check your iPad’s battery health is through coconutBattery. The app is available for macOS and supports Apple devices, including iPads. Download coconutBattery on your Mac. Connect your iPad via a USB cable. Launch the application. Select your device and see its battery details. It provides information on Battery Health, Current Capacity, Design Capacity, Charge Cycles, Battery Temperature, and Charging Status. Please note that some more advanced options will be available only in the paid version. Tips to Keep Your Older iPad Battery Healthy Ensure that you only use certified chargers: Your iPad should be charged by Apple-certified and MFi-certified chargers and cables. Avoid using your iPad in extreme temperatures: it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures. Keep your iPad software up to date: Update your device to the latest iPadOS. Screen lock: Locking your iPad helps conserve battery power. Airplane mode in areas with poor signal: If the signal strength is low, activate airplane mode to conserve battery. Wi-Fi connection: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is possible. Unplug unnecessary devices: Unplug any USB-C device that is no longer needed. #Apple #Doesnt #Show #Battery #Health #Older #iPadsHeres #Checkapple
  4. View details such as Maximum Capacity, Cycle Count, Battery Status, Manufacturing Date, First Use Date, and the 80% Charging Limit.

If you have an old iPad, you won’t see the Battery Health option in the Settings menu. The reason behind this restriction remains unknown, as Apple has not disclosed it yet. The old operating system of these iPads does not even support the Battery Health menu.

How to Check Battery Health on Older iPads

ipad

Apple provides an online battery diagnostic process for iPads that do not have the Battery Health option. This is the proper way to diagnose your device’s battery without downloading any additional software. First, contact Apple Support and describe your battery problems, which may include rapid battery drain, slow charging, and automatic shutdowns of your iPad. Apple Support will conduct a remote battery diagnostic on your iPad. They will be able to tell you all the vital information regarding your battery.

Use coconutBattery on a Mac

Another way to check your iPad’s battery health is through coconutBattery. The app is available for macOS and supports Apple devices, including iPads.

  • Download coconutBattery on your Mac.
  • Connect your iPad via a USB cable.
  • Launch the application.
  • Select your device and see its battery details.
    Use coconutBattery on a Mac to check battery health

It provides information on Battery Health, Current Capacity, Design Capacity, Charge Cycles, Battery Temperature, and Charging Status. Please note that some more advanced options will be available only in the paid version.

Tips to Keep Your Older iPad Battery Healthy

  1. Ensure that you only use certified chargers: Your iPad should be charged by Apple-certified and MFi-certified chargers and cables.
  2. Avoid using your iPad in extreme temperatures: it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures.
  3. Keep your iPad software up to date: Update your device to the latest iPadOS.
  4. Screen lock: Locking your iPad helps conserve battery power.
  5. Airplane mode in areas with poor signal: If the signal strength is low, activate airplane mode to conserve battery.
  6. Wi-Fi connection: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is possible.
  7. Unplug unnecessary devices: Unplug any USB-C device that is no longer needed.
#Apple #Doesnt #Show #Battery #Health #Older #iPadsHeres #Checkapple">Apple Doesn’t Show Battery Health on Older iPads—Here’s How to Check It Anyway Checking your battery health will not only provide you with information about your iPad’s performance but also indicate whether you need to replace your device. Although Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature on newer iPads, it is not available on many older devices. However, you do have several options for checking your battery health. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check battery health on older iPads and share some useful tips to help extend battery life. Which iPads Support Apple’s Built-in Battery Health Feature? Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature for selected iPad models. If your iPad supports it, you can view important battery information in the Settings app without installing any additional apps. This feature is available for iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad (A16), and newer iPads. Go to Settings. Tap Battery. Open Battery Health. View details such as Maximum Capacity, Cycle Count, Battery Status, Manufacturing Date, First Use Date, and the 80% Charging Limit. If you have an old iPad, you won’t see the Battery Health option in the Settings menu. The reason behind this restriction remains unknown, as Apple has not disclosed it yet. The old operating system of these iPads does not even support the Battery Health menu. How to Check Battery Health on Older iPads Apple provides an online battery diagnostic process for iPads that do not have the Battery Health option. This is the proper way to diagnose your device’s battery without downloading any additional software. First, contact Apple Support and describe your battery problems, which may include rapid battery drain, slow charging, and automatic shutdowns of your iPad. Apple Support will conduct a remote battery diagnostic on your iPad. They will be able to tell you all the vital information regarding your battery. Use coconutBattery on a Mac Another way to check your iPad’s battery health is through coconutBattery. The app is available for macOS and supports Apple devices, including iPads. Download coconutBattery on your Mac. Connect your iPad via a USB cable. Launch the application. Select your device and see its battery details. It provides information on Battery Health, Current Capacity, Design Capacity, Charge Cycles, Battery Temperature, and Charging Status. Please note that some more advanced options will be available only in the paid version. Tips to Keep Your Older iPad Battery Healthy Ensure that you only use certified chargers: Your iPad should be charged by Apple-certified and MFi-certified chargers and cables. Avoid using your iPad in extreme temperatures: it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures. Keep your iPad software up to date: Update your device to the latest iPadOS. Screen lock: Locking your iPad helps conserve battery power. Airplane mode in areas with poor signal: If the signal strength is low, activate airplane mode to conserve battery. Wi-Fi connection: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is possible. Unplug unnecessary devices: Unplug any USB-C device that is no longer needed. #Apple #Doesnt #Show #Battery #Health #Older #iPadsHeres #Checkapple

, it is not available on many older devices. However, you do have several options for checking your battery health. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check battery health on older iPads and share some useful tips to help extend battery life.

Which iPads Support Apple’s Built-in Battery Health Feature?

Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature for selected iPad models. If your iPad supports it, you can view important battery information in the Settings app without installing any additional apps. This feature is available for iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad (A16), and newer iPads.

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Tap Battery.
  3. Open Battery Health.
    Apple Doesn’t Show Battery Health on Older iPads—Here’s How to Check It Anyway Checking your battery health will not only provide you with information about your iPad’s performance but also indicate whether you need to replace your device. Although Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature on newer iPads, it is not available on many older devices. However, you do have several options for checking your battery health. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check battery health on older iPads and share some useful tips to help extend battery life. Which iPads Support Apple’s Built-in Battery Health Feature? Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature for selected iPad models. If your iPad supports it, you can view important battery information in the Settings app without installing any additional apps. This feature is available for iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad (A16), and newer iPads. Go to Settings. Tap Battery. Open Battery Health. View details such as Maximum Capacity, Cycle Count, Battery Status, Manufacturing Date, First Use Date, and the 80% Charging Limit. If you have an old iPad, you won’t see the Battery Health option in the Settings menu. The reason behind this restriction remains unknown, as Apple has not disclosed it yet. The old operating system of these iPads does not even support the Battery Health menu. How to Check Battery Health on Older iPads Apple provides an online battery diagnostic process for iPads that do not have the Battery Health option. This is the proper way to diagnose your device’s battery without downloading any additional software. First, contact Apple Support and describe your battery problems, which may include rapid battery drain, slow charging, and automatic shutdowns of your iPad. Apple Support will conduct a remote battery diagnostic on your iPad. They will be able to tell you all the vital information regarding your battery. Use coconutBattery on a Mac Another way to check your iPad’s battery health is through coconutBattery. The app is available for macOS and supports Apple devices, including iPads. Download coconutBattery on your Mac. Connect your iPad via a USB cable. Launch the application. Select your device and see its battery details. It provides information on Battery Health, Current Capacity, Design Capacity, Charge Cycles, Battery Temperature, and Charging Status. Please note that some more advanced options will be available only in the paid version. Tips to Keep Your Older iPad Battery Healthy Ensure that you only use certified chargers: Your iPad should be charged by Apple-certified and MFi-certified chargers and cables. Avoid using your iPad in extreme temperatures: it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures. Keep your iPad software up to date: Update your device to the latest iPadOS. Screen lock: Locking your iPad helps conserve battery power. Airplane mode in areas with poor signal: If the signal strength is low, activate airplane mode to conserve battery. Wi-Fi connection: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is possible. Unplug unnecessary devices: Unplug any USB-C device that is no longer needed. #Apple #Doesnt #Show #Battery #Health #Older #iPadsHeres #Checkapple
  4. View details such as Maximum Capacity, Cycle Count, Battery Status, Manufacturing Date, First Use Date, and the 80% Charging Limit.

If you have an old iPad, you won’t see the Battery Health option in the Settings menu. The reason behind this restriction remains unknown, as Apple has not disclosed it yet. The old operating system of these iPads does not even support the Battery Health menu.

How to Check Battery Health on Older iPads

ipad

Apple provides an online battery diagnostic process for iPads that do not have the Battery Health option. This is the proper way to diagnose your device’s battery without downloading any additional software. First, contact Apple Support and describe your battery problems, which may include rapid battery drain, slow charging, and automatic shutdowns of your iPad. Apple Support will conduct a remote battery diagnostic on your iPad. They will be able to tell you all the vital information regarding your battery.

Use coconutBattery on a Mac

Another way to check your iPad’s battery health is through coconutBattery. The app is available for macOS and supports Apple devices, including iPads.

  • Download coconutBattery on your Mac.
  • Connect your iPad via a USB cable.
  • Launch the application.
  • Select your device and see its battery details.
    Use coconutBattery on a Mac to check battery health

It provides information on Battery Health, Current Capacity, Design Capacity, Charge Cycles, Battery Temperature, and Charging Status. Please note that some more advanced options will be available only in the paid version.

Tips to Keep Your Older iPad Battery Healthy

  1. Ensure that you only use certified chargers: Your iPad should be charged by Apple-certified and MFi-certified chargers and cables.
  2. Avoid using your iPad in extreme temperatures: it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures.
  3. Keep your iPad software up to date: Update your device to the latest iPadOS.
  4. Screen lock: Locking your iPad helps conserve battery power.
  5. Airplane mode in areas with poor signal: If the signal strength is low, activate airplane mode to conserve battery.
  6. Wi-Fi connection: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is possible.
  7. Unplug unnecessary devices: Unplug any USB-C device that is no longer needed.
#Apple #Doesnt #Show #Battery #Health #Older #iPadsHeres #Checkapple">Apple Doesn’t Show Battery Health on Older iPads—Here’s How to Check It Anyway

Checking your battery health will not only provide you with information about your iPad’s performance but also indicate whether you need to replace your device. Although Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature on newer iPads, it is not available on many older devices. However, you do have several options for checking your battery health. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check battery health on older iPads and share some useful tips to help extend battery life.

Which iPads Support Apple’s Built-in Battery Health Feature?

Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature for selected iPad models. If your iPad supports it, you can view important battery information in the Settings app without installing any additional apps. This feature is available for iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad (A16), and newer iPads.

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Tap Battery.
  3. Open Battery Health.
    Apple Doesn’t Show Battery Health on Older iPads—Here’s How to Check It Anyway Checking your battery health will not only provide you with information about your iPad’s performance but also indicate whether you need to replace your device. Although Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature on newer iPads, it is not available on many older devices. However, you do have several options for checking your battery health. In this guide, we’ll explain how to check battery health on older iPads and share some useful tips to help extend battery life. Which iPads Support Apple’s Built-in Battery Health Feature? Apple provides a built-in Battery Health feature for selected iPad models. If your iPad supports it, you can view important battery information in the Settings app without installing any additional apps. This feature is available for iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad (A16), and newer iPads. Go to Settings. Tap Battery. Open Battery Health. View details such as Maximum Capacity, Cycle Count, Battery Status, Manufacturing Date, First Use Date, and the 80% Charging Limit. If you have an old iPad, you won’t see the Battery Health option in the Settings menu. The reason behind this restriction remains unknown, as Apple has not disclosed it yet. The old operating system of these iPads does not even support the Battery Health menu. How to Check Battery Health on Older iPads Apple provides an online battery diagnostic process for iPads that do not have the Battery Health option. This is the proper way to diagnose your device’s battery without downloading any additional software. First, contact Apple Support and describe your battery problems, which may include rapid battery drain, slow charging, and automatic shutdowns of your iPad. Apple Support will conduct a remote battery diagnostic on your iPad. They will be able to tell you all the vital information regarding your battery. Use coconutBattery on a Mac Another way to check your iPad’s battery health is through coconutBattery. The app is available for macOS and supports Apple devices, including iPads. Download coconutBattery on your Mac. Connect your iPad via a USB cable. Launch the application. Select your device and see its battery details. It provides information on Battery Health, Current Capacity, Design Capacity, Charge Cycles, Battery Temperature, and Charging Status. Please note that some more advanced options will be available only in the paid version. Tips to Keep Your Older iPad Battery Healthy Ensure that you only use certified chargers: Your iPad should be charged by Apple-certified and MFi-certified chargers and cables. Avoid using your iPad in extreme temperatures: it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures. Keep your iPad software up to date: Update your device to the latest iPadOS. Screen lock: Locking your iPad helps conserve battery power. Airplane mode in areas with poor signal: If the signal strength is low, activate airplane mode to conserve battery. Wi-Fi connection: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is possible. Unplug unnecessary devices: Unplug any USB-C device that is no longer needed. #Apple #Doesnt #Show #Battery #Health #Older #iPadsHeres #Checkapple
  4. View details such as Maximum Capacity, Cycle Count, Battery Status, Manufacturing Date, First Use Date, and the 80% Charging Limit.

If you have an old iPad, you won’t see the Battery Health option in the Settings menu. The reason behind this restriction remains unknown, as Apple has not disclosed it yet. The old operating system of these iPads does not even support the Battery Health menu.

How to Check Battery Health on Older iPads

ipad

Apple provides an online battery diagnostic process for iPads that do not have the Battery Health option. This is the proper way to diagnose your device’s battery without downloading any additional software. First, contact Apple Support and describe your battery problems, which may include rapid battery drain, slow charging, and automatic shutdowns of your iPad. Apple Support will conduct a remote battery diagnostic on your iPad. They will be able to tell you all the vital information regarding your battery.

Use coconutBattery on a Mac

Another way to check your iPad’s battery health is through coconutBattery. The app is available for macOS and supports Apple devices, including iPads.

  • Download coconutBattery on your Mac.
  • Connect your iPad via a USB cable.
  • Launch the application.
  • Select your device and see its battery details.
    Use coconutBattery on a Mac to check battery health

It provides information on Battery Health, Current Capacity, Design Capacity, Charge Cycles, Battery Temperature, and Charging Status. Please note that some more advanced options will be available only in the paid version.

Tips to Keep Your Older iPad Battery Healthy

  1. Ensure that you only use certified chargers: Your iPad should be charged by Apple-certified and MFi-certified chargers and cables.
  2. Avoid using your iPad in extreme temperatures: it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures.
  3. Keep your iPad software up to date: Update your device to the latest iPadOS.
  4. Screen lock: Locking your iPad helps conserve battery power.
  5. Airplane mode in areas with poor signal: If the signal strength is low, activate airplane mode to conserve battery.
  6. Wi-Fi connection: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it is possible.
  7. Unplug unnecessary devices: Unplug any USB-C device that is no longer needed.
#Apple #Doesnt #Show #Battery #Health #Older #iPadsHeres #Checkapple

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr wants to repeal a rule that has prevented a select handful of broadcasters from taking full control of the media landscape.

Back in 2004, Congress instructed the FCC to enact a national ownership cap that would bar any one broadcast station owner from reaching more than 39% of American households. For more than 20 years, the rule has kept mega mergers in the TV broadcasting industry from gobbling up the entire media ecosystem.

Now, Carr is proposing to repeal that national ownership cap rule, which, if successful, would mean broadcast TV giants will pretty much have a green light for mergers, even if it meant that one company would gain access to most of the media landscape.

Carr expressed his intentions in an op-ed published by the far-right organization Breitbart. In the op-ed, he claimed that the cap was once helpful in protecting local news stations, but now it was becoming an obstacle as they compete with national news, large streamers, and social media giants.

Instead of a blanket rule, Carr wants to create a new “case-by-case approach.”

“Previously, the cap operated as a blanket prohibition on any and all deals that would combine stations in excess of the 39 percent limit—regardless of whether it was a good deal or a bad one for the country,” Carr wrote in the op-ed. “Our new proposal would allow the FCC to approve deals that exceed the 39 percent cap, but only if doing so would promote the public interest.”

Major broadcasters have been lobbying for a change to the rule for quite some time now. One such mega TV broadcasting company that lobbied for the rule change is Nexstar. Earlier this year, the FCC granted Nexstar a waiver for the 39% national ownership cap rule and approved its acquisition of rival Tegna. The merger is still currently facing court challenges over antitrust claims, but if it is finalized, then Nexstar is estimated to expand its reach to at least 60% of American households.

Sinclair, another Trump-allied major broadcaster that was behind a particularly infamous PR debacle during Trump’s first administration, is also eyeing a merger and commended the proposed rule change as “common sense.” Both companies also famously refused to air Jimmy Kimmel’s show on their channels late last year after the late-night host’s comments about Charlie Kirk drew ire from the Trump administration.

The FCC will vote on eliminating the rule on August 6th. There are three commissioners, two Republicans and one Democrat. The lone Democratic FCC Commissioner, Anna Gomez, took to X to voice her staunch opposition.

“The FCC just announced it will move forward with its unlawful effort to hand control of the public airwaves to billionaire buddies of this administration,” Gomez wrote. “This will destroy local newsrooms, silence community reporting, and drive-up costs for American families.”

Even if the action passes the FCC vote, it’s likely to receive pushback from both sides of the aisle in Congress.

“Trump’s FCC Chair is trying to illegally rewrite the rules to make it easier for billionaires to line their own pockets while jacking up costs and controlling what Americans watch,” Sen. Elizabeth Warren said in a statement. “After rubber-stamping the Nexstar-Tegna megamerger, this looks like the Trump administration’s latest attempt to roll out the red carpet for more antitrust disasters.”

Critics believe that because the rule was created following Congress’s action, it is up to Congress to determine if it should be retired. But Carr insists that the FCC has the authority to modify or repeal the rule.

#FCC #Chairman #Repeal #Key #Rule #Fundamentally #Change #Broadcast #NewsBrendan carr,broadcast television,FCC">FCC Chairman Wants to Repeal a Key Rule That Would Fundamentally Change Broadcast News Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr wants to repeal a rule that has prevented a select handful of broadcasters from taking full control of the media landscape. Back in 2004, Congress instructed the FCC to enact a national ownership cap that would bar any one broadcast station owner from reaching more than 39% of American households. For more than 20 years, the rule has kept mega mergers in the TV broadcasting industry from gobbling up the entire media ecosystem. Now, Carr is proposing to repeal that national ownership cap rule, which, if successful, would mean broadcast TV giants will pretty much have a green light for mergers, even if it meant that one company would gain access to most of the media landscape. Carr expressed his intentions in an op-ed published by the far-right organization Breitbart. In the op-ed, he claimed that the cap was once helpful in protecting local news stations, but now it was becoming an obstacle as they compete with national news, large streamers, and social media giants. Instead of a blanket rule, Carr wants to create a new “case-by-case approach.” “Previously, the cap operated as a blanket prohibition on any and all deals that would combine stations in excess of the 39 percent limit—regardless of whether it was a good deal or a bad one for the country,” Carr wrote in the op-ed. “Our new proposal would allow the FCC to approve deals that exceed the 39 percent cap, but only if doing so would promote the public interest.” Major broadcasters have been lobbying for a change to the rule for quite some time now. One such mega TV broadcasting company that lobbied for the rule change is Nexstar. Earlier this year, the FCC granted Nexstar a waiver for the 39% national ownership cap rule and approved its acquisition of rival Tegna. The merger is still currently facing court challenges over antitrust claims, but if it is finalized, then Nexstar is estimated to expand its reach to at least 60% of American households. Sinclair, another Trump-allied major broadcaster that was behind a particularly infamous PR debacle during Trump’s first administration, is also eyeing a merger and commended the proposed rule change as “common sense.” Both companies also famously refused to air Jimmy Kimmel’s show on their channels late last year after the late-night host’s comments about Charlie Kirk drew ire from the Trump administration. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fHfgU8oMSo[/embed] The FCC will vote on eliminating the rule on August 6th. There are three commissioners, two Republicans and one Democrat. The lone Democratic FCC Commissioner, Anna Gomez, took to X to voice her staunch opposition. “The FCC just announced it will move forward with its unlawful effort to hand control of the public airwaves to billionaire buddies of this administration,” Gomez wrote. “This will destroy local newsrooms, silence community reporting, and drive-up costs for American families.” Even if the action passes the FCC vote, it’s likely to receive pushback from both sides of the aisle in Congress. “Trump’s FCC Chair is trying to illegally rewrite the rules to make it easier for billionaires to line their own pockets while jacking up costs and controlling what Americans watch,” Sen. Elizabeth Warren said in a statement. “After rubber-stamping the Nexstar-Tegna megamerger, this looks like the Trump administration’s latest attempt to roll out the red carpet for more antitrust disasters.” Critics believe that because the rule was created following Congress’s action, it is up to Congress to determine if it should be retired. But Carr insists that the FCC has the authority to modify or repeal the rule. #FCC #Chairman #Repeal #Key #Rule #Fundamentally #Change #Broadcast #NewsBrendan carr,broadcast television,FCC

Breitbart. In the op-ed, he claimed that the cap was once helpful in protecting local news stations, but now it was becoming an obstacle as they compete with national news, large streamers, and social media giants.

Instead of a blanket rule, Carr wants to create a new “case-by-case approach.”

“Previously, the cap operated as a blanket prohibition on any and all deals that would combine stations in excess of the 39 percent limit—regardless of whether it was a good deal or a bad one for the country,” Carr wrote in the op-ed. “Our new proposal would allow the FCC to approve deals that exceed the 39 percent cap, but only if doing so would promote the public interest.”

Major broadcasters have been lobbying for a change to the rule for quite some time now. One such mega TV broadcasting company that lobbied for the rule change is Nexstar. Earlier this year, the FCC granted Nexstar a waiver for the 39% national ownership cap rule and approved its acquisition of rival Tegna. The merger is still currently facing court challenges over antitrust claims, but if it is finalized, then Nexstar is estimated to expand its reach to at least 60% of American households.

Sinclair, another Trump-allied major broadcaster that was behind a particularly infamous PR debacle during Trump’s first administration, is also eyeing a merger and commended the proposed rule change as “common sense.” Both companies also famously refused to air Jimmy Kimmel’s show on their channels late last year after the late-night host’s comments about Charlie Kirk drew ire from the Trump administration.

The FCC will vote on eliminating the rule on August 6th. There are three commissioners, two Republicans and one Democrat. The lone Democratic FCC Commissioner, Anna Gomez, took to X to voice her staunch opposition.

“The FCC just announced it will move forward with its unlawful effort to hand control of the public airwaves to billionaire buddies of this administration,” Gomez wrote. “This will destroy local newsrooms, silence community reporting, and drive-up costs for American families.”

Even if the action passes the FCC vote, it’s likely to receive pushback from both sides of the aisle in Congress.

“Trump’s FCC Chair is trying to illegally rewrite the rules to make it easier for billionaires to line their own pockets while jacking up costs and controlling what Americans watch,” Sen. Elizabeth Warren said in a statement. “After rubber-stamping the Nexstar-Tegna megamerger, this looks like the Trump administration’s latest attempt to roll out the red carpet for more antitrust disasters.”

Critics believe that because the rule was created following Congress’s action, it is up to Congress to determine if it should be retired. But Carr insists that the FCC has the authority to modify or repeal the rule.

#FCC #Chairman #Repeal #Key #Rule #Fundamentally #Change #Broadcast #NewsBrendan carr,broadcast television,FCC">FCC Chairman Wants to Repeal a Key Rule That Would Fundamentally Change Broadcast NewsFCC Chairman Wants to Repeal a Key Rule That Would Fundamentally Change Broadcast News Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr wants to repeal a rule that has prevented a select handful of broadcasters from taking full control of the media landscape. Back in 2004, Congress instructed the FCC to enact a national ownership cap that would bar any one broadcast station owner from reaching more than 39% of American households. For more than 20 years, the rule has kept mega mergers in the TV broadcasting industry from gobbling up the entire media ecosystem. Now, Carr is proposing to repeal that national ownership cap rule, which, if successful, would mean broadcast TV giants will pretty much have a green light for mergers, even if it meant that one company would gain access to most of the media landscape. Carr expressed his intentions in an op-ed published by the far-right organization Breitbart. In the op-ed, he claimed that the cap was once helpful in protecting local news stations, but now it was becoming an obstacle as they compete with national news, large streamers, and social media giants. Instead of a blanket rule, Carr wants to create a new “case-by-case approach.” “Previously, the cap operated as a blanket prohibition on any and all deals that would combine stations in excess of the 39 percent limit—regardless of whether it was a good deal or a bad one for the country,” Carr wrote in the op-ed. “Our new proposal would allow the FCC to approve deals that exceed the 39 percent cap, but only if doing so would promote the public interest.” Major broadcasters have been lobbying for a change to the rule for quite some time now. One such mega TV broadcasting company that lobbied for the rule change is Nexstar. Earlier this year, the FCC granted Nexstar a waiver for the 39% national ownership cap rule and approved its acquisition of rival Tegna. The merger is still currently facing court challenges over antitrust claims, but if it is finalized, then Nexstar is estimated to expand its reach to at least 60% of American households. Sinclair, another Trump-allied major broadcaster that was behind a particularly infamous PR debacle during Trump’s first administration, is also eyeing a merger and commended the proposed rule change as “common sense.” Both companies also famously refused to air Jimmy Kimmel’s show on their channels late last year after the late-night host’s comments about Charlie Kirk drew ire from the Trump administration. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fHfgU8oMSo[/embed] The FCC will vote on eliminating the rule on August 6th. There are three commissioners, two Republicans and one Democrat. The lone Democratic FCC Commissioner, Anna Gomez, took to X to voice her staunch opposition. “The FCC just announced it will move forward with its unlawful effort to hand control of the public airwaves to billionaire buddies of this administration,” Gomez wrote. “This will destroy local newsrooms, silence community reporting, and drive-up costs for American families.” Even if the action passes the FCC vote, it’s likely to receive pushback from both sides of the aisle in Congress. “Trump’s FCC Chair is trying to illegally rewrite the rules to make it easier for billionaires to line their own pockets while jacking up costs and controlling what Americans watch,” Sen. Elizabeth Warren said in a statement. “After rubber-stamping the Nexstar-Tegna megamerger, this looks like the Trump administration’s latest attempt to roll out the red carpet for more antitrust disasters.” Critics believe that because the rule was created following Congress’s action, it is up to Congress to determine if it should be retired. But Carr insists that the FCC has the authority to modify or repeal the rule. #FCC #Chairman #Repeal #Key #Rule #Fundamentally #Change #Broadcast #NewsBrendan carr,broadcast television,FCC

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr wants to repeal a rule that has prevented a select handful of broadcasters from taking full control of the media landscape.

Back in 2004, Congress instructed the FCC to enact a national ownership cap that would bar any one broadcast station owner from reaching more than 39% of American households. For more than 20 years, the rule has kept mega mergers in the TV broadcasting industry from gobbling up the entire media ecosystem.

Now, Carr is proposing to repeal that national ownership cap rule, which, if successful, would mean broadcast TV giants will pretty much have a green light for mergers, even if it meant that one company would gain access to most of the media landscape.

Carr expressed his intentions in an op-ed published by the far-right organization Breitbart. In the op-ed, he claimed that the cap was once helpful in protecting local news stations, but now it was becoming an obstacle as they compete with national news, large streamers, and social media giants.

Instead of a blanket rule, Carr wants to create a new “case-by-case approach.”

“Previously, the cap operated as a blanket prohibition on any and all deals that would combine stations in excess of the 39 percent limit—regardless of whether it was a good deal or a bad one for the country,” Carr wrote in the op-ed. “Our new proposal would allow the FCC to approve deals that exceed the 39 percent cap, but only if doing so would promote the public interest.”

Major broadcasters have been lobbying for a change to the rule for quite some time now. One such mega TV broadcasting company that lobbied for the rule change is Nexstar. Earlier this year, the FCC granted Nexstar a waiver for the 39% national ownership cap rule and approved its acquisition of rival Tegna. The merger is still currently facing court challenges over antitrust claims, but if it is finalized, then Nexstar is estimated to expand its reach to at least 60% of American households.

Sinclair, another Trump-allied major broadcaster that was behind a particularly infamous PR debacle during Trump’s first administration, is also eyeing a merger and commended the proposed rule change as “common sense.” Both companies also famously refused to air Jimmy Kimmel’s show on their channels late last year after the late-night host’s comments about Charlie Kirk drew ire from the Trump administration.

The FCC will vote on eliminating the rule on August 6th. There are three commissioners, two Republicans and one Democrat. The lone Democratic FCC Commissioner, Anna Gomez, took to X to voice her staunch opposition.

“The FCC just announced it will move forward with its unlawful effort to hand control of the public airwaves to billionaire buddies of this administration,” Gomez wrote. “This will destroy local newsrooms, silence community reporting, and drive-up costs for American families.”

Even if the action passes the FCC vote, it’s likely to receive pushback from both sides of the aisle in Congress.

“Trump’s FCC Chair is trying to illegally rewrite the rules to make it easier for billionaires to line their own pockets while jacking up costs and controlling what Americans watch,” Sen. Elizabeth Warren said in a statement. “After rubber-stamping the Nexstar-Tegna megamerger, this looks like the Trump administration’s latest attempt to roll out the red carpet for more antitrust disasters.”

Critics believe that because the rule was created following Congress’s action, it is up to Congress to determine if it should be retired. But Carr insists that the FCC has the authority to modify or repeal the rule.

#FCC #Chairman #Repeal #Key #Rule #Fundamentally #Change #Broadcast #NewsBrendan carr,broadcast television,FCC

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