The Federal Communications Commission is studying the state of broadcast journalism with an eye towards possible policy changes to “improve” the quality of news content.  Given the influence of  the media “reform” group Free Press at the highest level of the Commission, the report could have a dramatic impact on talk radio.

According to press reports, the FCC’s analysis of  broadcast news focuses on a range of issues, including media consolidation, the business challenges facing traditional electronic media, and the rise of blogging and other “new media.”  Of special concern to talk radio: The still-secret report examines the “quality of journalism” and the role of “opinion journalism” in the broadcast media.

The FCC report was initiated by Commissioner Michael Copps, a long-time critic of broadcast news.  But the study also reflects the agenda of Free Press, which dislikes “opinion” radio and advocates an eat-your-spinach approach to news.  This is from their website:

“News outlets across the country have replaced real reporting with celebrity gossip, sports and weather. And instead of fulfilling their obligation to inform the public, the massive conglomerates that decide most of what we read, see and hear every day serve us junk news and mindless commentary that is cheap to produce.”

How much influence does Free Press have at the FCC?  A lot.  Copps is clearly a fan — he spoke at a recent FP gathering — and FCC ChairmanJulius Genachowski earlier this month tapped Free Press staffer Jen Lewis to serve as his personal press secretary.

The storm clouds continue to gather over the FCC…