The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is examining the process by which TV ratings are formulated and applied, pointing to “controversial gender identity matters” in children’s television shows. A notice released by the FCC underscores worries that programs featuring “transgender and gender non-binary content” are designated as suitable for kids, contending that this information is insufficiently communicated to parents, thereby hindering their ability to make educated choices.

The FCC’s document incorporates open-ended inquiries regarding the formulation of TV ratings, questioning whether the committee responsible for these standards embraces a diversity of perspectives beyond the entertainment sector and whether faith-based groups ought to play a part. It inquires into how the committee could weave family-centered views, which are often marginalized in the media landscape, into its rating framework.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr unveiled the public notice, pointing out that parents have voiced worries about the industry’s stance, accusing “New York & Hollywood programmers” of endorsing inappropriate material in children’s content without parental notification. Carr did not reference gender identity in his statement.

TV parental guidelines may encompass ratings and descriptors for material containing crude language, sexual situations, and violence. LGBTQ+ advocates condemned the notice, branding it as discriminatory and suppressive. Tyler Hack, executive director of the transgender rights advocacy organization Christopher Street Project, remarked that the FCC’s actions are dehumanizing and represent a larger effort to stigmatize LGBTQ+ individuals. Sarah Kate Ellis, president and CEO of GLAAD, characterized the notice as government overreach, contending that media companies should have the autonomy to produce content that reflects their audience without government intervention.

This is not the first instance where Carr has been accused of censorship. He has asserted that broadcasters present “hoaxes” and “news fabrications” unfavorable to President Trump, implying that their licenses might be in jeopardy. In March, free speech advocates criticized Carr’s threats against broadcasters as “unlawful jawboning” and a breach of the First Amendment, urging him to withdraw his threats.