If you've noticed more closed captioning (CC) logos on TV since January 1, 2006, that's due to an FCC rule that requires almost everything on TV to be closed captioned. This includes music videos. Therefore, many music video programs on broadcast TV (like Music Mix USA in Florida and other nearby states) and cable video stations like FUSE now require that submissions be closed captioned. Other stations, like MTV, have always required that video submissions be closed captioned.
There are some notable exemptions to this new law. Based on my research, the following are not required to closed caption:
- Programming that airs between 2am and 6am
- New networks that have been airing for less than four years
- Channels with revenues under $3 million and/or channels for whom captioning would exceed 2% of gross revenue
- Public access and leased access shows
Bottom line: If you have a music video and hope to have it aired on TV, you might as well get it closed captioned. It only costs a couple hundred dollars or so. If you're a programmer on a public or leased access channel, I recommend you contact your station to check their CC requirements.
To read more about the new rules, check out the FCC closed captioning page or Media Access Guide at WBGH.com. Or, get a lawyer.
