In late September we reported on the FCC’s request for comments about its proposed “TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund Reimbursement Form”. That’s the form that the Commission plans to use when, after the incentive spectrum auctions, TV licensees put pen to paper and figure out what it’s going to cost to move to their repacked facilities. Many (if not most) licensees will then be looking to Uncle Sam to cover those costs – and the Reimbursement Form (and related procedures described in the draft instructions to the form) will provide those licensees the access to the cash. In other words, the reimbursement process is a Big Deal that TV licensees should be focusing on now so as, ideally, to reduce the chances of disappointments down the line.
The Commission originally provided a paltry 30 days in which to review the proposed form and related procedural provisions, cogitate on the various issues they present, and then submit comments thereon. The National Association of Broadcasters figured that that just wasn’t enough time to gather all necessary and useful responsive information – for example, from engineers who have first-hand knowledge and experience in modifying TV transmission systems. The NAB asked for an extension and now, mirabile dictu, the Commission has agreed.
As a result, the deadline for comments has been extended to November 26, 2014. Happy Thanksgiving!
