Adelstein Repeats Call for PPM Investigation

Outgoing Federal Communications Commission (FCC) member Jonathan Adelstein has again called for a government inquiry into how Arbitron's PPM (Portable People Meter) methodology collects data on minority audiences and broadcast stations.

At the FCC's monthly meeting, Adelstein urged the commission to launch a formal enquiry into the PPM, citing concerns from minority groups and stations over falling ratings under the PPM system. He first raised this issue last November.

'I am encouraged that the Commission will soon launch an inquiry, so that all the facts and PPM's effect on diversity will be evaluated and brought into light' said Adelstein. 'Some have questioned whether we have the authority to conduct such an inquiry. Apparently they haven't read the Communications Act.'

Adelstein is concerned about reports from minority-owned and targeted radio stations that their audience numbers had dramatically declined since the PPM measurement technology was implemented almost two years ago. He added that the FCC cannot allow PPM to 'damage diversity'.

Last month, Arbitron met with FCC Acting Chairman Michael Copps in an attempt to head off a possible investigation into Adelstein's claims.

However, Adelstein says he is still receiving complaints about the effects of PPM from minority broadcasters, and that he has heard widespread concerns that PPM has started to 'pose a threat to minority- and women-owned stations'.

David Honig, Executive Director of the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council described Adlestein's call for an inquiry as 'overdue', adding that 'democracy needs to keep pace with technology'.

Adelstein is leaving the commission to take up a role in the Obama administration, working to increase the availability of broadband in rural areas.

Web site: www.arbitron.com .