PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Referred to the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance.
Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in House · Feb 9, 1996
Parents Television Empowerment Act of 1996 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish a toll-free number for the collection of public comments, suggestions, and complaints (comments) concerning the transmission by broadcast stations or cable systems of programming containing depictions of violence and other patently offensive material. Requires the FCC to: (1) publicize such number and the FCC's functions under this Act; (2) publish a summary of comments received in the Federal Register quarterly; (3) transcribe such comments; (4) transmit to each licensee any comments made concerning its station; (5) make such comments available for public inspection; (6) omit from any records transmitted or made available the name and address of any caller requesting confidentiality; and (7) include an analysis of such comments in an annual report to the Congress.
People & committees
Rep. Kennedy, Joseph P., II [D-MA-8] · D–MA
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance.
Referred to the House Committee on Commerce.
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E160)
Primary sources
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Source last updated: Aug 21, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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