NAB Sees Obstacles for Filing Station Public Files

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, August 29, 2014

The National Association of Broadcasters has filed comments with the FCC in response to the Public Notice that would require the Commission to initiate a rulemaking to expand to cable and satellite systems the requirement that public and political files be posted to the FCC's online database. In addition, the Media Bureau also seeks comment on whether it should initiate a rulemaking to require radio broadcast stations to utilize the online public file database.

When it comes to broadcast outlets, the NAB noted that there are significantly more logistical and practical issues to be addressed. The trade association submits that these issues must be fully vetted in any future Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. "With better knowledge, the Commission can tailor an implementation schedule and possible exemptions to fit the diverse nature of the radio industry," the filing said.

"As of June 30, 2014, there were 15,425 licensed AM, FM commercial and FM educational stations. This is over seven fold the number of full power and class A television stations that already have placed their public inspection files online. Thus, the sheer number of radio and television stations, along with cable and DBS, could place a strain on the Commission's existing database, particularly during high volume filing times," the NAB continued.

"For example, broadcast stations (radio and television) are required to place in their public files, a quarterly issues/program report on the 10th of the month of January, April, July and October. Having 17,639 broadcast entities upload on the same four dates, as well as requiring all entities to keep their political files current, could severely constrain the Commission's online public file database on these filing dates."

The NAB conclued by stating "Any possible Notice of Proposed Rulemaking should also consider that among the 15,425 licensed full power radio stations, the level of station staffing and access to the necessary resources to manage and maintain an online public file varies dramatically from station to station, market to market."