An FSTV underwriting message (credit) is 15 seconds long, measured as 55-58 syllables. It begins with a preamble from FSTV, then the legal name of the organization purchasing the underwriting. It’s followed by a line or two that describes the product, service, or mission of the underwriter followed by the website or location. A trademarked slogan/tagline may be used following the URL. A campaign or promotional tagline may not be used.
FCC Guidelines
Underwriting credits acknowledge organizations that fund public television programming. Federal law mandates this identification, and further allows for the non-promotional description of your products and services as the underwriter. The stated guidelines assist FSTV and all
of our underwriters in developing credit language that complies with FCC and IRS regulations while maintaining integrity that is consistent with FSTV programming content.
Prohibited Language
Copy may not be promotional, refer to pricing, sales or fundraising for an organization, compare your business or products to others, offer an inducement to buy, offer free admission, or ask for an RSVP. A message may not use certifications like award-winning, board-certified or family-
owned. First person words may not be used as it implies an endorsement: I or we. Speaking to the audience (you) is not allowed. Messages that advocate for political, religious or social causes and/or language that is inconsistent with FSTV’s broadcasting mission may not be used.
Permitted Language
Name, location, years in business. Informational descriptions of product line or service. Brand
and trade names. Days/dates of event. Trademarked slogan/tagline which begins with the
organization’s name and identifies but does not promote or compare the product or business;
plus it has been in use for sufficient time and is recognized by the public as synonymous with the underwriter (see above).
Production Process
Once copy is approved by both the underwriter and FSTV, the FSTV Account Manager will
Produce the spot. Please allow three business days for a spot to be produced. If the underwriter wishes to watch to the spot before it airs, please allow a few extra days for FSTV to produce the spot. FSTV talent will record a cold read designed to fit into the presentation of the station. Should an error be made by FSTV, we will re-produce the spot as quickly as possible.
