Legislative Alert: Senators McCain and Leahy Champion Low-Power FM Radio
 
June 21, 2004
 

Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John McCain, and Democratic Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont, introduced legislation on June 4 to ease regulatory restrictions on Low Power FM (LPFM) radio. The bill, known as the Low Power Radio Act of 2004 (S.2505), would remove some measures designed to prevent signal interference with other FM stations, including translator and booster stations.

Currently, LPFM stations are required to protect broadcast stations on co-channel, first, second, and third-adjacent channels. S.2505 would allow the Commission to license LPFM stations on third adjacent channels without limitations and would eliminate the requirement that the FCC perform further testing on the economic impact of LPFM radio generally.

The bill, which is opposed by most of the broadcast industry, including the National Association of Broadcasters, was referred to the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee where it awaits further action.

For more information, e-mail Reg Leichty at reg.leichty@hklaw.com or call toll free, 1-888-688-8500.