The Media Bureau has announced that the window period for submitting "translator application selection" lists. If you've got FM translator applications from the 2003 window still pending, you've got your work cut out for you.… Continue Reading
Having settled on a framework for clearing the FM translator logjam and getting the LPFM application process up and running (at least in theory), the Commission is losing no time in its efforts to implement that framework.… Continue Reading
The FCC has tentatively set the next LPFM filing window for October, 2013 -- but since that date depends to a great degree on the Commission's ability first to clear out the backlog of 6,000 or so translator applications, a lot of work will have to be done between now and then.… Continue Reading
The 4th Report and Order sorting out the LPFM/FM translator situation has been published in the Federal Register, but the next step in the sorting out process is still a ways away.… Continue Reading
It's "see ya" once again to the third-adjacent channel separation requirements for LPFM stations . . . except that some will still be with us.… Continue Reading
Hurricane Irene has produced at least one arguable benefit: because of disruptions caused by the storm, the Commission has extended the deadlines for comments in the LPFM/FM translator proceeding.… Continue Reading
With some proceedings, the FCC seems content to let its handiwork age tastefully before getting published in the Federal Register. That's definitely not the case with the LPFM/FM Translator Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.… Continue Reading
The long-running stand-off between FM translator applicants and LPFM applicants may finally be heading toward some resolution as the FCC moves to implement the Local Community Radio Act. It looks like LPFM applicants are likely to get first crack at the available spectrum.… Continue Reading
The Commission has solicited input on a range of questions concerning the economic impact of LPFM stations on full-service FM stations.… Continue Reading
Commercial program origination on FM translators? A new "auxiliary secondary service" classification? And what the heck is a satellator? A recent petition for rulemaking addresses these and other interesting questions.… Continue Reading
The Local Community Radio Act of 2010 has been signed into law, but don't look for any new LPFMs anytime soon. Multiple problems will have to solved before the real effect of the law can be assessed.… Continue Reading
With the clock ticking down on this session, and with a newly-elected majority standing in the wings ready to take over come January, the lame duck Congress has managed to pass a new version of the "Local Community Radio Act", largely eliminating third-adjacent interference protection from low power FM stations.… Continue Reading
The Spring Cleaning bug has hit the folks in the Audio Division, which has unceremoniously dumped out at the curb nearly 300 applications for FM translators on noncommercial channels.… Continue Reading
