[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 116 (Thursday, September 9, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1845]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 FAMILY FRIENDLY TELEVISION PROGRAMMING

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                            HON. ROB PORTMAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 9, 1999

  Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my distinguished 
colleague from Massachusetts, Representative Markey to introduce a 
concurrent resolution which recognizes the importance of family 
friendly television programming, and the contributions that the Family 
Friendly Programming Forum is undertaking to make this goal a reality.
  Recent events have caused a national debate on child development and 
the influences of our popular culture on our children. In particular, 
we cannot overlook the role that television plays in shaping the 
attitudes and outlook of our nation's young people. Studies show that, 
each week, the average child will watch 22-28 hours of television, 
which is more time he or she will spend on any activity other than 
sleeping.
  Television is not only a powerful influence, it is too often a 
negative one. While parents have the final responsibility for 
regulating their children's viewing habits, the simple fact remains 
that the number of family-friendly programs available--particularly 
during prime time--has been steadily decreasing.
  Thirty-three of our country's largest companies have recognized this 
unmet need in the marketplace. And they have joined together to 
establish the Family Friendly Programming Forum.
  The argument is often made that family-friendly programs don't draw 
big ratings, advertisers won't support them and, therefore, networks 
cannot afford to carry them. One of the goals of the Forum is to change 
this perception. The major advertisers who are members of the Forum are 
taking a number of specific steps to encourage more family-friendly 
programs, including a new annual awards program the first of which is 
being held in California today. The Forum is also establishing a 
development fund for family-friendly scripts, a television scholarship 
program and a public awareness campaign to promote viewing options for 
families.
  Mr. Speaker, family-friendly programming does not mean dull shows. 
Successful programming over the years, including such television 
classics as ``The Cosby Show'' and ``Home Improvement,'' demonstrate 
that entertaining programming can be produced that is appropriate for 
the entire family. There is a market for good family-friendly 
programming. The advertising community represented on the Forum should 
be commended for working proactively to improve the content and quality 
of programming for America's families.
  Our families deserve more viewing choices and options. As a Member of 
Congress and as a parent, I commend the Family Friendly Programming 
Forum for working to provide more suitable programming for all 
Americans.

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