FCC Updates Public Notice for License Application Filings

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, May 13, 2020

FCC

The FCC has approved an order that would modernize and simplify the written and on-air public notices that broadcasters must provide upon the filing of certain applications. The new rules require shorter and more uniform public notices for all broadcast station applicants, and mandate that online notices provide the public with a "more meaningful opportunity" to comment by providing links to the actual applications in existing Commission databases.

It would also replace the costly newspaper publication requirement with written public notice posted online on an applicant-affiliated website or, if none exists, on a locally-targeted publicly accessible website, with a link to the application in the station's OPIF. It would also allow for shorter, more uniform and, overall, more frequent on-air announcements after application filing, that explain how to view the application in the applicant's OPIF or Commission databases.

Additionally, the order eliminates pre-filing on-air announcements currently required of broadcasters before filing license renewal applications, as well as clarifying and streamlining public notice obligations for international broadcast stations and U.S. stations supplying programming to foreign broadcasters targeting listeners in the U.S.

In a statement, NAB Senior Vice President of Communications Ann Marie Cumming said, "NAB thanks the FCC for unanimously approving the simplification of rules governing broadcasters' public notice of license renewals and modifications. Today's vote will help bring the licensing process for local radio and TV stations into the modern age. Local broadcasters appreciate the efforts of Chairman Pai and the FCC to modernize archaic rules and ease outdated regulatory burdens."