Statement from Patti Miller, vice president of Children Now, regarding the FCC’s decision to fine Univision for airing children’s soap operas to fulfill educational programming requirements:

“Children Now is very pleased by the FCC’s decision to prioritize the interests of children. When it comes to providing educational programming to kids, broadcasters have fallen down on the job. They have a public interest obligation to provide educational programming to children in return for the free use of the public’s airwaves. From claiming ‘The Flintstones’ teaches children about history to claiming that ‘Complices al Rescate’ teaches children about friendship, broadcasters have been egregious in some of their claims about what constitutes children’s educational programming.

“Research shows that quality educational television can positively influence young children’s readiness to start school and do well. We’re glad the FCC recognizes the importance of this programming for young children. In the coming year, Children Now will conduct a major national research study to assess the quality of shows broadcasters are claiming as educational. We want to make sure kids have access to quality educational programming, not more shows like ‘Complices al Rescate.’”