The Federal Communications Commission is officially asking the public to weigh in on Gray Media’s plans to acquire a swath of television stations from Block Communications and Allen Media Group. This is the public's chance to file formal comments on deals that could significantly increase media consolidation in numerous markets across the country.

The FCC has set a deadline of October 22, 2025, for interested parties to file "petitions to deny" the acquisitions. This formal process allows individuals, community groups, and competitors to voice their opposition directly to the regulator.

At the heart of the matter are the FCC's ownership rules. Gray's proposed acquisitions in several markets would violate the "Top-Four Prohibition," which generally prevents a single company from owning two of the top four rated stations in the same market.

However, in a move that could pave the way for Gray, a federal court recently vacated that very rule. The court's mandate is expected to take effect on October 21, 2025—just one day before the deadline for the public to file petitions against the deal.

Gray announced plans in August to acquire Block Communications' stations for $80 million and Allen Media Group's stations in 10 markets for $171 million.

If the deals are approved, Gray would own two or more full-power stations in the following markets: