Why it Matters
LATV Networks LLC continued its lobbying relationship with OGR through a registration amendment filed January 26, 2025. The Latino-owned network describes itself as “the only remaining Latino-owned TV network.” This lobbying push comes as Congress considers multiple bills that could directly benefit minority-owned broadcasters.
By the Numbers
- Lobbying expenditure: $40,000 spent between August 2024 and April 2025, including a Q4 2024 disclosure of $20,000.
- Team composition: Two lobbyists handle LATV’s account at OGR:
- Moses C. Mercado: Previously represented Entravision Communications Corp., Verizon, and Viacom.
- Amador Dean Aguillen: Also worked for Entravision and the Recording Industry Association of America.
Lobbying start date: August 31, 2024
Broader Context
Less than 4% of commercial television stations are minority-owned. The Broadcast VOICES Act aims to address this disparity through tax incentives. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver and Rep. Steven Horsford introduced the bill, highlighting the importance of minority-owned outlets that “uplift communities far too often overlooked.”
The Agenda
LATV’s lobbying focus remains consistent: “Efforts to amplify Hispanic media, digital publishing, and bilingual broadcast television.” The network targets programming that represents diverse Latino communities, including Afro-Latino and LGBTQ+ perspectives within Hispanic programming.
Competitive Landscape
OGR represents major media players including Verizon Communications and the RIAA. These larger clients often lobby on FCC regulations and spectrum policy, which can have cascading effects on smaller broadcasters like LATV.
Between The Lines
Congress is actively debating media policy. The Independent Programmers Tax Incentive Act would provide tax credits for carrying independent programming. The Community News and Small Business Support Act offers advertising tax credits for local stations.
Recent FCC oversight hearings addressed media diversity and ownership rules. Rep. Joaquin Castro has defended public television’s role in showcasing Latino talent. A new Bipartisan Broadcasters Caucus provides a dedicated forum for broadcaster advocacy.
The Bottom Line
LATV’s lobbying effort coincides with favorable legislative momentum for minority media ownership. The company’s experienced team has relevant credentials from representing Spanish-language broadcaster Entravision. Success will depend on building bipartisan support amid broader media regulation debates.
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