A coalition of TV station groups operating in smaller TV markets is asking the FCC not to affirm the so-called duopoly rule that restricts common ownership of two top-rated stations in small markets.

The coalition is alarmed by FCC Chairman Kevin Martin’s proposal to relax the newspaper-broadcast crossownership rule, but to make "no changes" on other ownership rules.

The coalition says its doesn't mind if the FCC sets aside consideration of the duopoly rule as long as it doesn't find that the rule is still in the public interest.

“That conclusion would be contrary to law and the factual record … and would sacrifice the interests of the pubic that the smaller-market stations serve,” the coalition says in a 10-page petition.

The proposal is expected to come before the full commission at its scheduled open meeting next Tuesday (Oct. 18).

“The record shows that the economic viability of smaller market television stations is often fragile and deteriorating, and therefore all three goals of the duopoly rule—promoting diversity, localism and competition—would be served, not harmed, by the commission’s reforming the rule in recognition of the drastically changed media marketplace,” the coalition says.

“Station combinations have allowed formerly struggling stations across the country to invest more in local programming, provide more technologically advanced services and increased local news coverage,” the coalition says.

“But because of the present structure of the duopoly rule, these same benefits are unavailable to viewers in smaller markets,” it continues.

“There is no justification for allowing duopolies in 56 large markets, but retaining a rule that bars them in 154 small markets where the need for them is greatest.”

The coalition, represented by Covington & Burling, comprises Barrington Broadcasting, Cordillera Communications, Fisher Communications, Freedom Broadcasting, LIN Television, Morgan Murphy Media, Quincy Newspapers, Raycom Media, Drewry Communications and Schurz Communications.