Final answer:
The equal-time rule requires broadcast stations to provide registered candidates running for office with equal opportunities for airtime and advertisements. However, the rule does not apply to supporters of candidates or causes. The FCC waives the equal-time rule for purely news coverage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The equal-time rule requires broadcast stations to provide registered candidates running for office with equal opportunities for airtime and advertisements. This rule ensures that all candidates in a race are given the same amount of airtime at the same price.
However, the rule does not apply to supporters of candidates or causes, meaning that broadcasters can potentially give free airtime to one candidate's supporters without providing the same opportunity to others. The equal-time rule does not extend beyond registered candidates.
The FCC waives the equal-time rule for purely news coverage. However, it may apply to shows that are not news, such as movies or television programs that feature a candidate. The equal-time provision can also be triggered by the broadcasting of the president's State of the Union speech.