(SECAUCUS) – Assembly Budget Chairman Vincent Prieto on Tuesday wrote to the Federal Communications Commission asking it to closely examine WWOR-TV’s recent decisions that will adversely impact New Jersey viewers.
“I ask your agency to take a close look at these recent decisions and whether WWOR is fulfilling its obligation to New Jersey,” Prieto wrote. “I am confident you will find that it is not doing so. With the station’s license renewal still pending, I ask you to consider either revoking the license or placing very strict rules upon the station to ensure it fulfills its obligation to New Jersey. The status quo is not acceptable.”
Prieto (D-Hudson/Bergen) noted that WWOR is supposed to put a focus on New Jersey programming and news coverage.
“Many have questioned that commitment throughout the years, but recent changes at the station are again raising serious questions,” Prieto wrote.
He noted WWOR has decided to discontinue its nightly 10 p.m. newscast, and will now tape its New Jersey public affairs program in New York City rather than in Secaucus.
“Many have questioned whether WWOR has ever lived up to its obligations to Garden State viewers, but the recent changes make clear this station is more interested in catering to New York viewers and their needs,” Prieto wrote to acting FCC Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn.
