Clear Channel Pulls Howard Stern Show Permanently Company says latest FCC action imposes a risk ‘we’re just not willing to take’ San Antonio, TX (April 8, 2004) - In the wake of a large FCC fine for its broadcast of the Howard Stern show, the company has decided to permanently terminate its relationship with the shock jock. "Mr. Stern's show has created a great liability for us and other broadcasters who air it," said John Hogan, president and CEO of Clear Channel Radio. "The Congress and the FCC are even beginning to look at revoking station licenses. That's a risk we're just not willing to take," said Hogan. In Februrary, Clear Channel suspended the show in the six markets that previously aired it. At that time, the company asked for assurances from the show's syndicator that steps would be taken to bring the program into compliance with FCC regulations. Hogan said that no such assurances were ever given. "We had hoped to return Mr. Stern's show to the air free from indecent content," Hogan said. "Unfortunately, the FCC's latest action, combined with deafening silence from the Stern show on their future plans to comply with the law, leave us no choice but to abandon the program for good." Earlier this year, Clear Channel announced its "Responsible Broadcasting Initiative," which instituted a zero tolerance policy for indecent content that includes training of broadcast station employees and strict disciplinary action for anyone that violates federal law or FCC regulations on the air. (Go to www.clearchannel.com for more info on zero tolerance policy, or click here: http://www.clearchannel.com/Radio/PressReleases/2004/2004_02_25_CC_RBI.pdf)