After the original proposal for the FCC’s 2021 Regulatory Fees showed a 5-15% increase for broadcasters, the FCC has agreed to hold the fees steady from 2020 removing the obligation of broadcasters to cover the costs of implementation of the Broadband DATA Act.
The FCC originally sought for radio and television stations to help fund $33 million in costs to implement the the Act and create new broadband maps. After the NAB and others opposed it due to the broadcasters not being involved in the work involved creating new broadband maps. The FCC agreed and also will now seek comments and on “ways to improve our regulatory fee process regarding any and all categories of service and perhaps require unlicensed spectrum users to share in the regulatory costs”.
The full order and fee calendar can be read here.
Peg Broadcasting has been issued a Notice of Apparent Liability For Forfeiture proposing a $7000 fine against 92.1 W221ED and 97.7 W249DQ McMinnville TN for failing to timely file license to cover applications for their Construction Permits and unauthorized operation after their expiration. W249DQ’s CP expired on January 10, 2021 and W221ED’s followed on February 23. Peg filed a petition for reconsideration on April 30 showing proof that both were built prior to their expiration which the FCC granted.
Three additional translator operators were issued Notices of Apparent Liability For Forfeiture proposing $3500 fines for also not filing their license to cover applications on time. LMNOC Broadcasting’s 98.1 K251CJ Taos NM’s CP expired on January 16, Natkim Radio LLC’s 104.9 W285FR Palatka FL’s on January 17, and Hoosier AM/FM 105.5 W288DN Marion IN’s construction permit expired on July 4. All three filed for petitions for reconsideration granted by the FCC.
South Dakota State University entered into a Consent Decree and will pay a $500 fine for being a first-time violator of documentation requirements of FCC rules by a student-run NCE radio station.
FM Changes
Jackman Holding Company’s (with pending sale to Bustos Media) Spanish Rhythmic “Urbana 104.5” KXXP White Salmon WA/Portland OR applies to downgrade
This story first appeared on radioinsight.com