- In this Report and Order, we set the stage for a new dimension in radio broadcasting, creating additional, affordable outlets for the expression of views and the provision of information and entertainment to local communities. By limiting participants in this service to noncommercial, educational organizations, we hope to ensure that this service will meet needs unmet by the commercial radio service. Through eligibility requirements, selection preference factors, and the relatively small range of LPFM stations, we hope to create a service that will serve the distinct needs of small local communities. Mindful of the need to protect the technical integrity of the existing radio service and to preserve its potential transition to digital service, however, we are proceeding cautiously. Accordingly, we are limiting radio stations in the LPFM service to a maximum of 100 watts. We are also maintaining 2nd-adjacent channel protection. Based on our engineers' careful review of the technical data submitted to the Commission, as well as their own studies, we are confident that any risk of interference is small and, on balance, outweighed by the benefits this new service will bring.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
- Paperwork Reduction Act Analysis. This Report and Order has been analyzed with respect to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, and found to impose new or modified reporting and recordkeeping requirements or burdens on the public. Implementation of these new or modified reporting and recordkeeping requirements will be subject to approval by the Office of Management and Budget as prescribed by the Act.
- Regulatory Flexibility Analysis. Pursuant to the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, as amended, 5 U.S.C. § 601, the Commission’s Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis for this Report and Order is attached as Appendix C.
- Additional Information. For additional information on this proceeding, please contact Julie Barrie, Policy and Rules Division, Mass Media Bureau, (202) 418-2130.
ORDERING CLAUSES
- Accordingly, IT IS ORDERED that, pursuant to authority contained in sections 1, 4(i), 303 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. §§ 151, 154(i), 303, Part 73 of the Commission’s rules, 47 C.F.R. Part 73, IS AMENDED as set forth in Appendix A below.
- IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that, the amendments set forth in Appendix A shall be effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.
- IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Commission’s Consumer Information Bureau, Reference Information Center, shall send a copy of this Report and Order, including the Final Regulatory Flexibility Act Analysis, to the Chief Counsel for the Small Business Administration.
- IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that this proceeding IS TERMINATED.
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
Magalie Roman Salas
Secretary
