Howard Stern Off the Air

As of Wednesday morning, The Howard Stern Radio Show was removed from the air in six major media markets around the country. The move was explained by Clear Channel Communications as an attempt to adhere to new level of decency and moral responsibility in its broadcast content. A recent FCC crackdown is believed to be at the heart of the renewed morality crusade.

Clear Channel also suspended another of its more popular radio personalities on Monday, citing similar reasons. At this point, it is unclear whether the suspensions are permanent or whether the shock jocks will be allowed back on the air within the parameters of new and yet-to-be-defined "decency guidelines". Fans of the radio shows are understandably upset by the abrupt removal of these shows from the air, while Christian and other religious-based broadcast groups are applauding the move.

Regardless of the ultimate outcome, it appears that the landscape of broadcast radio in America is on the verge of some significant changes. Although the first amendment guarantees freedom of speech, there are certain governances that are required during public broadcasts. The definition of those governances has long been a source of heated debate and consternation within the industry. It will be fun to watch what the money decides will be the best solution to this dilemma.