In this letter to the editor, the author responds to the story “Fix the AM Stations That Exist Instead of Adding More.” Radio World welcomes letters to the editor on this or any story. Email [email protected].
To the editor,
Admittedly, the FCC requirement to maintain the online public file may seem perfunctory, but consider:
- Unlike print and cable, unfortunately, the airwaves are a limited resource that belong to all Americans, to whom broadcasters are ultimately responsible. The public file enables the public to check that this responsibility is being met.
- FCC filings are automatically uploaded from the LMS system.
- Congress has tasked the commission with assuring that broadcasters serve the public interest. The Quarterly List of Issues and Programs seems the easiest way to achieve this. If the Quarterly List were eliminated, one can only imagine what sort of documentation might be required in its stead. Let’s not go there.
- Online political files are an easy tool enabling candidates to stay on top of competition by buying more advertising (on commercial stations).
— Dennis Jackson, technical consultant, WRIP/WEXP/WPUT
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