AM station operators are hoping that something will happen at the FCC – sooner rather than later – in the quest to improve the AM band. Is it a realistic hope? Read on, and listen, for yourself. AM is not quite dead yet. Although there are those that think we would all be […]

Want to ask something about dealing with the FCC Rules or procedures? Communications Attorney Cary Tepper is once again at your service: This month we have a wide assortment of questions: some of our readers wanted information about the Public and Legal Files, Station IDs, what to do if you get an NOV, […]

Most stations report they rarely, if ever, have anyone come in and ask to see the Public Information File. That does not mean you can get sloppy about what is in it – nor planning for public access. Full public access to your Public Inspection File involves two important principles: there is a […]

Do you have a question about FCC Rules or procedures? Communications Attorney Cary Tepper is at your service: Question: Yesterday we received a “Notice of Violation” from the FCC for failing to maintain “proper station logs and records” for our FM translator station. What does the FCC require? Cary Tepper: In Section 74.1281 […]

We continue with our series of answers to questions posed by BDR readers. DC Communications Attorney Cary Tepper is at your service. Updating Pending LPFM Application Information Question: We have an LPFM application pending before the FCC and one of the four directors of our non-profit entity has moved out of the area. […]

With the potential for expensive fines, there is one smart thing to do when some matter relating to the FCC is unclear: Ask the Lawyer. But what if you do not have a DC lawyer to call? Cary Tepper, a Communications Attorney with decades of experience has agreed to share his answers to […]

Under the prodding of Commissioner Ajit Pai, the FCC has issued a Notice Rule Making regarding possible ways to help AM broadcasters revitalize the band. This Guest Editorial by Mark Heller is offered to encourage you to make your thoughts known. Believe it or not, fifteen years ago, I served on the County […]

Can AM be saved? Many have given up and assigned AM to talk and foreign language, if not the trash bin of history. On the other hand, FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai has made several appearances and statements showing his support to help AM stations survive. As part of his initiative to find a […]

This is an updated part of a series of articles taking a look at various FCC Rules and how they can be understood and applied. According to the FCC, broadcast stations (and nearly all other kinds of licensed stations as well) are supposed to provide clear, easily understood station identification announcements. This was […]

Among the most frequent violations cited by FCC field agents is failure to maintain the tower lighting specified in the license. Since many stations spend more on electricity for tower lights than the actual transmittted power, any ability to reduce electrical consumption is welcome. Perhaps you have heard about the new initiative the […]