Q: Closed captioning is essential to my watching TV, but it seems that the networks aren’t monitoring their own closed captioning. whoever is in charge should be embarrassed. The major networks — ABC, NBC and CBS — are the worst. PBS, ION and other small networks work much better. Is it possible to contact the powers that be to improve closed captioning?
—Landra Satterfield, Newnan
A: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established new rules on Feb. 20 that it hopes will improve the quality of closed captioning. "This is only the beginning," FCC chairman Tom Wheeler, who has made improved closed captioning a priority, told the Los Angeles Times. The new rules apply to all TV programming with captions and address "quality standards for accuracy, synchronicity (timing), program completeness and placement of closed captions," the FCC stated. Captions must:
- Match the spoken words and "convey background noises."
- Coincide with "spoken words and sounds."
- Run from the "beginning to the end of the program."
- Should not "block other important visual content."
Live, or near-live, programming won’t be held to the standard of recorded programming, but improvements are expected, the FCC wrote. Most closed captioning used by networks is outsourced, and the FCC said it will closely monitor the situation. If viewers have an issue with closed captioning, the FCC encourages them to contact their provider or TV station. Viewers can also file complaints online (www.fcc.gov/complaints), by fax (1-866-418-0232) or by mail:
Federal Communications Commission
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
445 12th Street, SW
Washington, D.C., 20554
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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