The MBA is pleased to offer the National Association of Broadcaster’s Political Advertising Forms (PB-19) as a 2026-27 MBA member benefit!
The NAB PB-19 political advertising forms are standardized station record-keeping templates designed to help broadcasters comply with the FCC’s political file and disclosure requirements.
The candidate PB-19 forms are used when legally qualified candidates, or their authorized committees purchase airtime. These forms document key details such as the candidate’s name, office sought, schedule of spots, class of time, rates charged, and other information necessary to demonstrate compliance with “lowest unit charge” and equal opportunities rules. They also capture certifications related to sponsorship identification and whether the request was made by the candidate or on their behalf, ensuring stations maintain a clear, auditable record of candidate advertising transactions.
The non-candidate/issues PB-19 forms apply to political advertising placed by third parties (e.g., PACs, advocacy groups, or issue advertisers) that communicate messages relating to political matters or controversial issues of public importance. These forms require more extensive disclosure, including the name of the sponsoring organization, a list of executive officers or board members, contact information, and the issue or election referenced in the ad. They also track scheduling, rates, and class of time, but their primary purpose is to ensure transparency about who is funding and airing issue-based messaging, as required by FCC political file rules.
Forms are available immediately and intended solely for MBA members in good standing. Distribution of these forms outside of MBA members is prohibited.
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