by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
A Visit to Our Nation’s Capital to Bring Awareness of HR 2289
Last month we explored the threat of HR 2289 (the federal preemption of local franchising rights for state and local government) and the provisions included within it. If it were to pass, major funding and distribution mechanisms of community television in the US would effectively end.
To try stopping this bill from being enacted, JAG Legislative Committee Member Eddie Cologna and I went to Washington, DC to work with our national partner, the ACM (Alliance for Community Media). Together, we attempted to make our voices heard about why HR 2289 needs to be defeated.
We visited many of New Jersey’s Representatives and our two United States Senators. Along with ACM President Mike Wassenaar, we spoke to members of Congress to make them aware of the situation while leaving detailed information on this act and about the work all of us do in our communities and why our PEG channels are important to our residents.
One of the highlights of this trip was a special visit and encouraging remarks from FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez and her huge support for Community Television. Her remarks are below:
“Good morning, everyone. Thank you to the Alliance for Community Media for inviting me to speak to you ahead of your Hill Day. As I look around this room, I am reminded of the incredible responsibility—and privilege—we share. Each of us is entrusted with a mission that goes far beyond the technicalities of broadcasting or the logistics of running media channels. We are here because we care deeply about the voices and stories of our communities. We are here because we know that access to meaningful information is essential for every American—not just as a matter of convenience, but as a cornerstone of our democracy.
Days such as today serve as powerful reminders of why our work matters. When we gather as advocates, professionals, and citizens, we reaffirm our commitment to making sure that no voice is overlooked, that every story has a place, and that information crucial to everyday life is accessible to everyone. In a time when national news can feel overwhelming and distant, it is local media that brings us together, reflecting the issues, the triumphs, and the challenges closest to home.
The Alliance for Community Media has a long and distinguished history—one defined by service, advocacy, and impact. Representing more than 1,700 Public, Educational, and Government organizations across the country, the Alliance provides the backbone to local media efforts. These organizations serve as lifelines for information, culture, and civic engagement. They are the trusted outlets through which schools share updates, religious institutions reach out to congregations, colleges highlight achievements, and government officials communicate vital policies. And beyond these formal roles, community media offers a stage for countless community groups—from youth organizations to senior centers—to connect, to inform, and to inspire.
What you do together is not merely about broadcasting content. Your work is fundamentally about building bridges—between neighbors, across generations, and among citizens and the institutions that serve them. These bridges form the infrastructure of a healthy society, constructed not with bricks and mortar, but with stories, conversations, and connections.
Our towns and cities are enriched by the stories you share. Whether it’s a high school sports game, a city council debate, a faith-based event, or a new art exhibit, community media captures experiences that shape our lives. This programming informs, empowers, educates, and strengthens our democracy by keeping residents connected and informed about local issues that matter.
And this brings us directly to the First Amendment—the very foundation on which community media stands. Truly local broadcasters ensure that every day Americans have a platform to share their voices and perspectives. They illuminate the diversity of viewpoints that make our nation vibrant, especially at a time when national narratives can overshadow local realities.
But today, that First Amendment foundation is trembling. Across the country, we have witnessed an unprecedented series of attacks—coordinated efforts by the federal government to censor, control, and silence those who dissent. Last year, I launched a First Amendment tour to fight back against this campaign of censorship and control. On that tour, which is ongoing, I have heard from Americans who do not typically engage with the FCC yet feel the consequences of these threats to free expression every day.
Those threats are not hypothetical—they are ongoing and they are escalating. Most disturbingly, the power to revoke a broadcast license—meant to ensure service to communities—is being weaponized to threaten stations that air news the Administration dislikes. That is not regulation. That is punitive censorship. When licenses become tools of coercion, the very concept of a free press is washed away.
We have seen frivolous news distortion complaints used to pressure newsrooms. We have seen the power to derail mergers wielded to reshape editorial independence. The clearest example is the Paramount-Skydance merger, approved only after companies agreed to unprecedented concessions that subjected newsrooms to government-approved editorial oversight. That goes directly against the First Amendment. I dissented. And I will continue to speak out whenever government coercion threatens free expression.
Paramount’s capitulation—to avoid conflict with the Administration, to trade independence for a payout—comes at the expense of the American public. The company agreed to government influence over newsroom decisions and accepted a so-called “truth monitor” at CBS to ensure journalists do not criticize the Administration. This is a direct violation of both the First Amendment and long-standing legal precedent.
But the Commission is not stopping there. It is now taking actions to change the rules of the game entirely. The FCC used a bureau-level waiver to override Congressionally established ownership caps that protect localism, competition, and viewpoint diversity. There is a court fight going on as we speak about the lawfulness of these actions, but what is clear is that elimination of these caps would allow massive consolidation—reducing the number of voices in our media ecosystem, shuttering local newsrooms, and weakening communities in the process. Each newly consolidated newsroom represents a narrowing of public discourse.
Notably, while outlets deemed critical of this Administration are threatened with investigations, defunding, or license revocation, others that are viewed favorably by this Administration—are being quietly fast-tracked through regulatory processes, through a shortcut I call the Billionaire Buddy Bypass. This is not about reducing bias or strengthening journalism. It is about engineering an echo chamber. It is viewpoint control, plain and simple.
But we are not powerless. Community media stands on the front lines of this fight. You have always championed localism and diversity of thought. You have always served your communities—not the government, not political interests, not corporate conglomerates. And your work is essential now more than ever.
When community media thrives, our democracy thrives. When people have access to trusted local information—about schools, faith communities, civic events, and public safety — they become engaged participants in their own governance. When they have a platform to share their voices, they become stewards of their own future.
You are the architects of opportunity, creating the spaces where new ideas flourish and where all residents can be heard. But make no mistake: your ability to continue this work depends on the survival of a truly free press, protected from government coercion and political interference. That is why it is essential that you speak up, push back, and advocate fiercely—not only for your own organizations, but for the constitutional principles that enable your work. Because if the First Amendment is to mean anything at all, it must mean that no government—regardless of party—gets to decide what is true, who gets heard, or which voices are silenced.
Thank you for your commitment, your courage, and your unwavering belief in the power of community and free expression. The road ahead will not be easy. But together—steadfast, determined, and united—we can defend the First Amendment and preserve a media landscape that serves all Americans.”
Our struggle with this bill is far from over. Each of us must continue to be the messengers of why this bill is dangerous and do what we can to help defeat it.
The Harmful Points of H.R. 2289
1 Minute Overview of this Act.
News & Events
Posted: May 26, 2026 by Doug Seidel
How To Stop AI Tools From Using Your Data
by John C. Morley, Independent Producer
Privacy Is a major concern when using AI tools.
Whether you’re using ChatGPT, Claude, Microsoft Copilot, or another AI platform, privacy has become a big concern for users. In recent years, some AI conversations and shared links were indexed publicly. As privacy awareness increase, companies improve controls and reduce unintended exposure of chats and shared content. AI tools are incredibly useful, but privacy awareness should grow alongside AI adoption. People often assume you must pay for privacy protections or data controls, but that is not always true.
Reducing model training sharing in ChatGPT.
Before using ChatGPT regularly, review the model’s training settings. A paid subscription is not needed to turn off training participation controls. To instruct ChatGPT not to use your information for training:
You can close and reopen ChatGPT afterward to verify that the setting remained disabled. This setting only needs to be configured once on the account and typically applies across both the app and website experience.
Common uses of each AI platform.
ChatGPT, which stands for Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer, was introduced in 2022, and since then, many enhancements have been made to the platform. ChatGPT has often been used to help individuals and companies brainstorm ideas across creativity, marketing, strategy, technical explanations, coding assistance, conversational business tasks, role-play scenarios, document generation, and even image generation.
Many people found ChatGPT to be highly flexible across many topic areas. ChatGPT often strikes a strong balance between creativity and logical structure. That is one reason businesses use it for workflow planning, brainstorming, and productivity support. Many high school and college students also use AI tools to better understand material, generate practice questions, and reinforce concepts while studying.
A big concern with ChatGPT (or any AI generator) is that responses can appear highly confident even when information may be incomplete, outdated, or incorrect. AI should never be treated as the sole source for legal, medical, financial, compliance, or other critical decisions. Information should always be independently verified.
Claude, developed by Anthropic, is popular among users who work heavily with long documents, research material, summaries, and structured writing. Many users appreciate Claude’s ability to handle large amounts of text while maintaining organization and readability throughout responses. Claude is often well-suited for:
One reason many users enjoy Claude is that the responses often feel calm, methodical, and highly structured. It is particularly useful when working through large blocks of information that require careful organization.
Just as with ChatGPT, users should still avoid uploading highly confidential information, financial records, passwords, medical records, or sensitive business data to the platform.
Microsoft Copilot operates somewhat differently because it is deeply integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem. Many businesses that already use Microsoft 365 have begun incorporating Copilot into Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and other workplace tools. Microsoft Copilot is often best suited for:
The advantage of Copilot is its ability to interact directly with tools many organizations already use daily. This makes it especially attractive in business and enterprise environments.
However, users should understand the difference between consumer and enterprise environments. Organizational policies, permissions, retention settings, and connected file access may all impact how data is handled within business environments.
Some important considerations for using AI responsibly.
No matter which AI platform you use, users should never assume AI systems are like private, encrypted vaults. AI systems are designed to process information, but policies, settings, and retention rules may evolve. Good habits when using any AI platform include:
Each AI platform has strengths depending on the task:
The future is not about replacing people with AI. It is about understanding where AI helps, where it falls short, and how to use it responsibly.
Posted: May 26, 2026 by Doug Seidel
Celebrating local excellence: A look back at the 2026 JAG Awards Banquet
By Connor Cheung, Chair, JAG Awards Committee
What a night!
On Wednesday, May 13th, the Jersey Access Group family gathered at the Crowne Plaza in Edison for the 26th Annual JAG Awards Banquet. It was incredible to see so many of our members step out from behind the cameras, put down the clipboards, and finally catch up in person. For a lot of us, it was the first time seeing each other face-to-face in a year, and the room was absolutely buzzing with energy.
This year’s competition was easily one of our toughest yet. We received outstanding entries from 26 different organizations across the state. The sheer variety and quality of the stories being told in our communities right now is amazing. From deeply researched local documentaries and high-production sports broadcasts to crucial town hall updates; the work on display proved that local stations are more vital to our neighborhoods than ever before.
While the competition was fierce, the spirit of the night was all about celebrating our collective hustle. We know the long hours, the frozen football games, the late-night council meetings, and the endless editing sessions that go into making these productions happen. Seeing those clips up on the big screen with everyone cheering each other on was a great reminder of why we do what we do.
Before we officially close the book on the 2026 awards, we want to extend a massive thank you to the JAG Awards Committee—Elio, George, Dave, and Valerie—for the countless hours they spent behind the scenes coordinating the judging, scores, and logistics. We also want to thank Bob Duthaler and the entire JAG Board for putting together another fantastic conference kickoff.
To everyone who entered, congratulations. Whether you took home a first-place trophy or placed in the top three of a highly competitive category, you are doing incredible work for your community.
The full list of winners will be available on the JAG website. Have a great summer, keep telling those stories, and we can’t wait to see what you produce for next year’s awards!
Posted: May 26, 2026 by Doug Seidel
Legislative Update May 2026: News from Trenton & Washington and FCC Legislation Changes
by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
A Visit to Our Nation’s Capital to Bring Awareness of HR 2289
Last month we explored the threat of HR 2289 (the federal preemption of local franchising rights for state and local government) and the provisions included within it. If it were to pass, major funding and distribution mechanisms of community television in the US would effectively end.
To try stopping this bill from being enacted, JAG Legislative Committee Member Eddie Cologna and I went to Washington, DC to work with our national partner, the ACM (Alliance for Community Media). Together, we attempted to make our voices heard about why HR 2289 needs to be defeated.
We visited many of New Jersey’s Representatives and our two United States Senators. Along with ACM President Mike Wassenaar, we spoke to members of Congress to make them aware of the situation while leaving detailed information on this act and about the work all of us do in our communities and why our PEG channels are important to our residents.
One of the highlights of this trip was a special visit and encouraging remarks from FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez and her huge support for Community Television. Her remarks are below:
“Good morning, everyone. Thank you to the Alliance for Community Media for inviting me to speak to you ahead of your Hill Day. As I look around this room, I am reminded of the incredible responsibility—and privilege—we share. Each of us is entrusted with a mission that goes far beyond the technicalities of broadcasting or the logistics of running media channels. We are here because we care deeply about the voices and stories of our communities. We are here because we know that access to meaningful information is essential for every American—not just as a matter of convenience, but as a cornerstone of our democracy.
Days such as today serve as powerful reminders of why our work matters. When we gather as advocates, professionals, and citizens, we reaffirm our commitment to making sure that no voice is overlooked, that every story has a place, and that information crucial to everyday life is accessible to everyone. In a time when national news can feel overwhelming and distant, it is local media that brings us together, reflecting the issues, the triumphs, and the challenges closest to home.
The Alliance for Community Media has a long and distinguished history—one defined by service, advocacy, and impact. Representing more than 1,700 Public, Educational, and Government organizations across the country, the Alliance provides the backbone to local media efforts. These organizations serve as lifelines for information, culture, and civic engagement. They are the trusted outlets through which schools share updates, religious institutions reach out to congregations, colleges highlight achievements, and government officials communicate vital policies. And beyond these formal roles, community media offers a stage for countless community groups—from youth organizations to senior centers—to connect, to inform, and to inspire.
What you do together is not merely about broadcasting content. Your work is fundamentally about building bridges—between neighbors, across generations, and among citizens and the institutions that serve them. These bridges form the infrastructure of a healthy society, constructed not with bricks and mortar, but with stories, conversations, and connections.
Our towns and cities are enriched by the stories you share. Whether it’s a high school sports game, a city council debate, a faith-based event, or a new art exhibit, community media captures experiences that shape our lives. This programming informs, empowers, educates, and strengthens our democracy by keeping residents connected and informed about local issues that matter.
And this brings us directly to the First Amendment—the very foundation on which community media stands. Truly local broadcasters ensure that every day Americans have a platform to share their voices and perspectives. They illuminate the diversity of viewpoints that make our nation vibrant, especially at a time when national narratives can overshadow local realities.
But today, that First Amendment foundation is trembling. Across the country, we have witnessed an unprecedented series of attacks—coordinated efforts by the federal government to censor, control, and silence those who dissent. Last year, I launched a First Amendment tour to fight back against this campaign of censorship and control. On that tour, which is ongoing, I have heard from Americans who do not typically engage with the FCC yet feel the consequences of these threats to free expression every day.
Those threats are not hypothetical—they are ongoing and they are escalating. Most disturbingly, the power to revoke a broadcast license—meant to ensure service to communities—is being weaponized to threaten stations that air news the Administration dislikes. That is not regulation. That is punitive censorship. When licenses become tools of coercion, the very concept of a free press is washed away.
We have seen frivolous news distortion complaints used to pressure newsrooms. We have seen the power to derail mergers wielded to reshape editorial independence. The clearest example is the Paramount-Skydance merger, approved only after companies agreed to unprecedented concessions that subjected newsrooms to government-approved editorial oversight. That goes directly against the First Amendment. I dissented. And I will continue to speak out whenever government coercion threatens free expression.
Paramount’s capitulation—to avoid conflict with the Administration, to trade independence for a payout—comes at the expense of the American public. The company agreed to government influence over newsroom decisions and accepted a so-called “truth monitor” at CBS to ensure journalists do not criticize the Administration. This is a direct violation of both the First Amendment and long-standing legal precedent.
But the Commission is not stopping there. It is now taking actions to change the rules of the game entirely. The FCC used a bureau-level waiver to override Congressionally established ownership caps that protect localism, competition, and viewpoint diversity. There is a court fight going on as we speak about the lawfulness of these actions, but what is clear is that elimination of these caps would allow massive consolidation—reducing the number of voices in our media ecosystem, shuttering local newsrooms, and weakening communities in the process. Each newly consolidated newsroom represents a narrowing of public discourse.
Notably, while outlets deemed critical of this Administration are threatened with investigations, defunding, or license revocation, others that are viewed favorably by this Administration—are being quietly fast-tracked through regulatory processes, through a shortcut I call the Billionaire Buddy Bypass. This is not about reducing bias or strengthening journalism. It is about engineering an echo chamber. It is viewpoint control, plain and simple.
But we are not powerless. Community media stands on the front lines of this fight. You have always championed localism and diversity of thought. You have always served your communities—not the government, not political interests, not corporate conglomerates. And your work is essential now more than ever.
When community media thrives, our democracy thrives. When people have access to trusted local information—about schools, faith communities, civic events, and public safety — they become engaged participants in their own governance. When they have a platform to share their voices, they become stewards of their own future.
You are the architects of opportunity, creating the spaces where new ideas flourish and where all residents can be heard. But make no mistake: your ability to continue this work depends on the survival of a truly free press, protected from government coercion and political interference. That is why it is essential that you speak up, push back, and advocate fiercely—not only for your own organizations, but for the constitutional principles that enable your work. Because if the First Amendment is to mean anything at all, it must mean that no government—regardless of party—gets to decide what is true, who gets heard, or which voices are silenced.
Thank you for your commitment, your courage, and your unwavering belief in the power of community and free expression. The road ahead will not be easy. But together—steadfast, determined, and united—we can defend the First Amendment and preserve a media landscape that serves all Americans.”
Our struggle with this bill is far from over. Each of us must continue to be the messengers of why this bill is dangerous and do what we can to help defeat it.
The Harmful Points of H.R. 2289
1 Minute Overview of this Act.
David Garb, Legislative Chair. Doug Seidel, President
Jersey Access Group Jersey Access Group
davegarb@paps.net dseidel@piscatawaynj.org
Bob Duthaler, Former President Mike Wassenaar, President
Jersey Access Group Alliance for Community Media
bduthaler@jagonline.org mwassenaar@allcommunitymedia.org
Posted: April 28, 2026 by Doug Seidel
Why Some Stories Make the News, and Others Don’t
by John C. Morley, Independent Producer
Having been in the media for many years, I often hear from people who want their stories covered. The reality is that while something may be important to you, it may not be considered newsworthy by local or national outlets.
People reach out about birthdays, grand openings, new recipes, or personal accomplishments. All of those things matter on a personal level, but not everything meets the threshold for news coverage. That does not make those moments any less meaningful. It simply reflects how the media decides what to focus on. Let’s take a closer look at what makes something newsworthy and why some stories get covered while others do not.
Note that repeatedly reaching out to media outlets rarely improves the chances of coverage. In fact, it can have the opposite effect. Every day, countless events and stories unfold, but only a small number are selected.
So, what determines whether a story gets picked up? From experience, it comes down to a few key factors. Understanding how media outlets think is not as complicated as it may seem. You just have to look at it from their perspective for a moment.
A story usually affects more than just one person. Media outlets look for stories that impact a group, an organization, or a broader community. The larger the relevance, the more likely it is to be considered.
Timing also plays a major role. A story that happened days or weeks ago is far less likely to be covered than something happening right now. News, by nature, is immediate.
Relevance is just as important. A story may be meaningful to you, your family, or your friends, but the question is whether it connects to a wider audience. Would others find it useful, interesting, or worth paying attention to? Stories that show some form of change or impact tend to stand out. If something led to a result, solved a problem, or influenced a group of people, it becomes easier to understand why it matters.
Human interest also plays a role. People connect with people. When a story includes real experiences, voices, or perspectives, it becomes more engaging and easier to follow.
Practical considerations matter as well. If a story falls outside a media outlet’s coverage area, it will usually not be considered. Even when a story meets many of these factors, it may still not get covered due to limited staffing or available resources.
In the end, the media does not simply report everything that happens. It selects what to highlight based on relevance, timing, impact, and connection. Understanding that process helps explain why some stories are covered while others are not.
Just as important as knowing what gets picked up by the media is understanding what will likely be passed over. In many cases, the reasons are straightforward:
In many situations, the idea itself is not bad. It is just not the right fit at the right time.
One final point that often confuses is the difference between community access stations, local public stations, and national media.
Community access stations are designed to give residents a voice. They provide a platform for local individuals and organizations to share information, ideas, and experiences. The focus is on access and participation rather than broad reach.
Local public stations operate differently. They typically produce more structured programming and may focus on education, public interest topics, and community coverage. While they serve local audiences, the content is usually developed by the station rather than the general public.
National media operates on a much larger scale. It focuses on stories that affect large populations and often prioritizes topics with widespread impact. The audience is broad, and the coverage is designed to reach across regions rather than focus on a single community.
Each serves a different purpose. Community access focuses on participation, local public stations focus on structured local programming, and national media focus on scale and reach. Each plays a different role in how people receive and understand information.
Posted: April 28, 2026 by Doug Seidel
DeSisti to Debut New Innovative Fixtures at NAB ‘26
By Paul DeStefano, Northeast Regional Sales Manager, DeSisti
At the 2026 NAB Show, DeSisti Lighting is expanding its portfolio with a series of new fixtures that emphasize efficiency, flexibility, and practical innovation for modern broadcast and production environments. The company’s latest introductions span its cost-effective LITE series as well as entirely new lighting concepts, underscoring its continued focus on high-performance LED solutions.
A major highlight is the expansion of the LITE series, designed to bring DeSisti’s optical quality and reliability to more budget-conscious markets such as education, public access, and government production. Among the new additions is the F4.7-LITE, a compact 40-watt Fresnel featuring a true 4.7-inch borosilicate glass lens. Available in tungsten (3200K), daylight (5600K), and variable white (2700K–6500K), the fixture uses DeSisti’s patented optical system to deliver higher output with lower power consumption. Its compact size and compatibility with existing F4.7 and Magis accessories make it particularly well suited for smaller studios and low grid heights.
The updated F6-LITE builds on this approach with increased power, now featuring an 80-watt LED array. It maintains full compatibility with standard F6 Fresnel accessories and even legacy 1000-watt tungsten Leonardo fixtures, providing an easy upgrade path for facilities transitioning to LED. Like the F4.7-LITE, it is offered in multiple color temperature configurations to suit a wide range of production needs.
In soft lighting, DeSisti introduces the SoftLED2-LITE, reengineered for higher output while consuming just 120 watts, along with the new SoftLED1-LITE, a 60-watt half-size version. These fixtures deliver even, high-quality illumination with excellent CRI/TLCI performance, making them ideal for multi-camera studio environments. Notably, all LITE series fixtures are completely fanless, using passive cooling to ensure silent operation—an essential feature for broadcast applications.
Beyond the LITE series, DeSisti is also debuting the GIOTTO Linear cyclorama light, a high-efficiency LED solution designed for even, controlled cyc illumination. Available in both variable white and extended color versions, the fixture features an asymmetrical optical system that minimizes light spill while maintaining uniform coverage. Its 48-inch form factor allows fewer units to be used compared to traditional cyc lights, improving both efficiency and setup simplicity.
Perhaps the most groundbreaking introduction is the GALILEO SOFT-NEL, a completely new lighting concept that rethinks traditional studio lighting techniques. By combining a central Fresnel hard light with a surrounding soft-light ring in a single coaxial system, GALILEO enables continuous control of shadow quality without changing fixture position. This patented dual-source architecture introduces what DeSisti calls “Intelli-Shadow,” allowing lighting designers to fine-tune shadow characteristics while maintaining a consistent beam axis. With independent control of intensity and color temperature for both sources, GALILEO consolidates what previously required multiple fixtures into one highly versatile tool.
Across all these new products, DeSisti emphasizes ease of use with intuitive onboard controls, DMX integration, and daisy-chainable power and data connections. The result is a lineup that not only advances lighting technology but also addresses the practical needs of today’s production environments. Together, these new products position DeSisti at the forefront of LED lighting innovation, offering solutions that are not only more efficient and affordable, but also more adaptable to the evolving demands of broadcast and content creation.
Posted: April 28, 2026 by Doug Seidel
Celebrating Excellence: The 2026 JAG Awards
By Connor Cheung, Chair, JAG Awards Committee
As we approach the JAG Awards, it’s a privilege to look back at the incredible range of talent within our community. This year’s submissions have been outstanding, with 26 different organizations participating and bringing forward some of the most creative work we’ve seen.
On a personal note, my journey with media and community broadcasting has always been driven by the belief that local stories deserve a professional stage. In my work as chair of the JAG Awards Committee and through my involvement in various regional media projects, I’ve focused on bridging the gap between technical execution and meaningful storytelling. Whether it’s overseeing the logistics of our annual audit or working on-site to ensure our stations have the tools they need to succeed, I’m passionate about elevating the standard of what we produce. Seeing the growth in quality across our member stations over the last few years has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this role.
Of course, the culmination of all this hard work is the JAG Awards Banquet. It’s more than just a ceremony; it’s the one night of the year where we get to step out from behind the cameras and control boards to celebrate together. There is a unique energy in the room when colleagues from across the state finally get to connect, share ideas, and recognize the long hours that go into every 30-second promo and hours-long town hall. It’s a night of genuine fun, high spirits, and a shared pride in the impact local broadcasting has on our communities.
To give you a preview of the scale of this year’s competition, we have entries spanning a wide variety of categories, including:
We can’t wait to see you all there to celebrate another year of excellence! May 13 at the Crowne Plaza in Edison, New Jersey.
Posted: April 28, 2026 by Doug Seidel
Legislative Update March 2026: News from Trenton & Washington and FCC Legislation Changes – Copy
by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
Dangers of the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025 (H.R. 2289)
Last November, a dangerous bill passed out of the Congressional House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee, titled the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025 (H.R. 2289). H.R. 2289 gives telecommunication companies de facto power over local zoning laws:
Not only will local authorities have no control of the rights-of-way, but the franchise fees generated by them will also be impacted:
In an effort to make our leadership aware of the implications of this act, the Jersey Access Group created the following two videos about it:
3 Minute Video on H.R. 2289 Via Dropbox
3 Minute Video on HR 2289 Via Youtube
HR 2289 PSA (on the TelVue Server)
1 Minute Video on HR 2289 via Dropbox
1 Minute Video on HR 2289 via Youtube
HR 2289 PSA 1 min (on the TelVue Server)
Please forward both these videos to your local, state and federal lawmakers to make everyone aware and informed of the dangers of H.R. 2289 to your local municipalities. Also, please consider airing them on your television channels and other means of communication, to make the members of your community informed as well.
Amazing News!
ADA Title II Web and Mobility Access Compliance to the WCAG 2.1 Level AA Rules
A One Year Extension!
From Mike Lynch, Leg/Reg Affairs, NATOA-National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors:
A hearty congratulations and ‘job well done’ to our good friends at the National League of Cities (NLC) and National Association of Counties (NACo) for achieving a one-year extension on both deadlines for the DOJ’s web accessibility rules for state and local government.
Angelina Panettieri of NLC and Seamus Dowdall of NACo each led a team of folks through meetings with the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Justice to plead and argue on fiscal and technical grounds for this extension.
See the NLC and NACo ex parte filings here:
https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/viewEO12866Meeting?viewRule=true&rin=1190-AA82&meetingId=1326573&acronym=1190-DOJ/CRT
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) compliance deadlines are now:
April 26, 2027, for localities >50,000 in population &
April 26, 2028, for localities <50,000 in population.
What this means for all of us now is that beginning on April 26, 2027, any video that is on government websites (or anywhere on the web) serving more than 50K residents, has to be ADA compliant by providing online communications that meet a minimum WCAG standard. These rules will also apply to all government’s websites with less then 50,000 residents beginning April 26, 2028.
A link to the notice of this extension can be found in the Federal Register at: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/20/2026-07663/extension-of-compliance-dates-for-nondiscrimination-on-the-basis-of-disability-accessibility-of-web. The DOJ is also seeking comments about the interim rule extending the deadlines.
From Mike Wassenaar, President, ACM-Alliance for Community Media:
This ruling still includes closed captioning for all VOD and live streaming that is online, and a descriptive audio track for pre-recorded video that will also be aired online.
A reminder for everyone: you should determine the costs for compliance with the new rule and plan either to meet the standards for your online presence or to make the case that compliance with one or more elements presents an undue burden. In either case, decision makers with local government need to be involved. Regardless of the Federal Government’s enforcement of the ADA, these rules can be enforced through private legal action, so local governments and non-profits would be subject to legal liability if they fail to act appropriately.
You are not exempt from ADA requirements. They require all non-profits and local governments to assess the costs of providing effective communication for residents. Solutions must be based on what residents need. You may not be required to provide that service if it fundamentally changes what you do, or it presents an undue economic burden. Guidelines are at https://www.ada.gov/resources/effective-communication/
If you provide captions, but they are not transmitted by a cable operator on your channels, tell the FCC as this is against the law. Email dro@fcc.org or use the link https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/closed-captioning-television.
Mike Wassenaar and the ACM have shared a slideshow with us Accessibility Rules Every PEG Channel Should Understand that highlights everything you need to know about these rules, as well as the following list of key takeaways to remember about disability access with your channels and services.
Posted: April 28, 2026 by Doug Seidel
JAG Annual Conference 2026
By Bob Duthaler, Conference Committee, Chair
The Jersey Access Group’s (JAG) Annual Conference continues to stand as one of the most important gatherings for community media professionals, volunteers, and municipal communication leaders across New Jersey. More than just an event, the conference represents a unique opportunity for JAG members to strengthen their skills, expand their networks, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Why JAG Members Should Attend
For JAG members, attending the Annual Conference is both a professional investment and a strategic advantage. The conference brings together industry experts, municipal leaders, station managers, and content creators in a collaborative environment designed to inspire growth and innovation. Members gain access to the latest tools, emerging technologies, and regulatory updates that directly impact local government access channels.
Beyond the educational value, the conference fosters meaningful connections. Whether you’re a seasoned station manager or a volunteer just getting started, the ability to exchange ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and build relationships with peers is invaluable. Attendees consistently leave with actionable insights that improve their station operations, content quality, and community engagement efforts.
Day One – Wednesday, May 13, 2026: Technology, Innovation, and Celebration
JAG Technology Forum
The conference kicks off on May 13 with JAG’s highly anticipated Technology Forum. This portion of the event is dedicated to showcasing the latest advancements in broadcast, streaming, and production technology. Vendors from across the industry will demonstrate cutting-edge products designed specifically for community media operations. Attendees can expect to explore solutions in areas such as:
What sets the Technology Forum apart is its hands-on approach. Participants aren’t just observing—they’re actively engaging with the equipment, testing workflows, and speaking directly with vendors about real-world applications. This interactive experience allows attendees to better evaluate what tools will work best for their own stations and communities.
JAG Video Awards – Evening Celebration
As the day transitions from innovation to celebration, the evening of May 13th features the JAG Video Awards. This signature event recognizes excellence in community media programming across the state.
The awards ceremony highlights the creativity, dedication, and storytelling power of JAG members. From municipal meeting coverage to original productions, the Video Awards showcase the impact of local access television in informing and connecting communities. It’s also a moment of pride and inspiration, as attendees celebrate their peers and gain ideas for future projects.
Day Two – Thursday, May 14, 2026: Production/Management Symposium
The second day of the conference shifts focus to professional development through the Production and Management Symposium. This full day of sessions is designed to address both the creative and operational sides of running a successful access station.
Attendees can participate in a variety of sessions covering topics such as:
Each session is led by experienced professionals who provide practical insights and real-world strategies that attendees can immediately apply.
Keynote Lunch Panel: WCAG 2.1 AA Compliance
A major highlight of the day is the keynote lunch panel discussion focused on WCAG 2.1 AA compliance. As accessibility continues to be a critical priority, this session will address what local government access stations need to do to meet compliance standards. Panelists will discuss:
This session is especially important for municipal stations, as accessibility compliance is not only a best practice, but an increasing regulatory expectation. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to move forward confidently and responsibly.
Join the JAG Annual Conference
The JAG Annual Conference is more than an event—it’s a catalyst for growth, innovation, and community impact. From hands-on technology exploration to insightful educational sessions and inspiring celebrations, the conference offers something for every member.
All JAG members are strongly encouraged to attend and take full advantage of this opportunity. To maximize your savings, be sure to obtain your JAG Membership discount code by contacting JAG Treasurer Linda Besinkat lbesink@gmail.com.
For more information and to register, visit:www.jagconference.com Don’t miss your chance to be part of New Jersey’s premier community media event—register today and invest in the future of your station and your community.