Each network will determine its own ratings system, and they will take effect Dec. 1. The networks and the Federal Communication Commission announced the news Monday.
A recent survey by the TV Parental Guidelines Monitoring Board found that roughly 70 percent of parents use TV ratings to determine what their kids can watch, and that about 61 percent of children now watch shows on devices other than a TV screen.
“I applaud the networks’ commitment to empower parents," said FCC Chairman Julius Genachowsk. "With our rapidly changing media marketplace, it is vital parents have tools to help them make informed choices.”
The ratings will appear at the start of full-length video programs and in online programming descriptions. Networks' websites will also include or link to ratings system information.
