A bill to amend the Broadcasting Law, which includes the introduction of a new reserve fund to reduce the NHK reception fee and the revision of foreign capital restrictions of broadcasters, has been deliberated at the House of Councilors plenary session.
The amendment to the Broadcasting Law is an intermediate holding company in order to introduce a "return purpose reserve fund" that will be used as a source of funds for reducing the reception fee in order to properly bear the NHK reception fee, and to improve the efficiency of the operations of NHK's subsidiaries. It includes making it possible to own a new company and introducing a premium system for TV installers who do not apply for a reception contract by the deadline for no good reason.
In addition, in response to the problem of violation of foreign capital regulations by private broadcasters, it is obligatory for businesses to report the status of foreign investment and to make regular reports to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
The amendment passed the House of Representatives on April 21, and was deliberated at the House of Councilors plenary session on June 1.
Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications Kaneko said in an explanation of the purpose of the bill, "We will establish a system to ensure an appropriate and fair burden of NHK reception fees," and asked for their understanding.