FCC Chairman Seeks Public Input on TV Ratings for Gender Identity in Children's Programs

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr announced on April 22, 2026, that he is seeking public input on whether gender identity content in children's programming should be added to the issues flagged by the television rating system. Carr stated that the current rating system informs parents about language, sex, and violence but does not address programming that includes transgender themes or other gender identity topics.

The FCC is requesting comments on whether the industry's approach provides parents with relevant information and disclosures.

The FCC notice indicated that parents have raised concerns about gender identity issues being included in children's programs without disclosure. It noted that industry guidelines rate shows with transgender and gender non-binary programming as appropriate for children without informing parents, which may affect their ability to make informed choices.

Carr is asking for feedback on the transparency of the TV Oversight Management Board, which oversees the rating system established under a 1996 law. The system includes ratings such as TV-Y for programs appropriate for all children, TV-Y7 for those aged seven and above, and TV-G for general audiences.

The FCC is posing questions including whether parents are aware that programs rated TV-Y, TV-Y7, and TV-G could contain discussions or promotions of gender identity themes. It is also asking if current content descriptions provide sufficient basis for parents to make viewing decisions and whether such programming should receive different ratings or additional descriptions.

Comments must be submitted to the FCC by May 22, 2026.

Since becoming FCC chairman, Carr has addressed issues with public broadcasters. In March 2026, he stated that broadcasters running hoaxes or news distortions must operate in the public interest or risk losing their licenses, particularly regarding coverage of the Iran war.

In the fall of 2025, Carr suggested that late-night host Jimmy Kimmel should face consequences for a joke made on air. Critics viewed this as an attempt to restrict political satire, which is protected under the First Amendment, but Carr stated his comments were consistent with public interest rules and regulations.