It is also a violation of federal law to broadcast indecent or profane programming during certain hours.

Under the law, indecent programming is much milder than obscenity or pornography, which are not protected by constitutional rights to free speech.

Others said the Court's willingness to see indecent programming banned from the leased channels was a sign that it would view the new law favorably.

"Wasn't it Congress's purpose to restrict and regulate indecent programming?"

After years of coming under assault in Washington on accusations of indecent programming, the television networks have decided to fight back.

Specifically, it is a violation of federal law to broadcast obscene, indecent or profane programming.

The commission ruled that radio and television stations could broadcast indecent programming during those hours and not risk Government action.

Some members of the coalition said they feared that further consolidation would increase the amount of indecent programming.

Helms wanted to force cable operators to block "indecent" programming unless customers specifically asked for it in writing.

Certainly, under our current jurisprudence, Congress could not impose a total ban on the transmission of indecent programming.