According to the Federal Communications Commission, the Media Bureau has granted 80% of the 600 FM translator window applications that have been filed so far in the first AM revitalization FM translator window.
Bureau Chief Bill Lake wrote in a blog post last week that AM broadcasters have begun to reap the benefits of the commission’s actions in the AM revitalization proceeding. He noted that hundreds of broadcasters have taken advantage of the exclusive window for certain classes of AM stations to relocate FM translator stations in order to rebroadcast their AM signals. The current window will be open through July; a second three-month window, open to all AM broadcasters, will follow.
Other aspects of the FCC AM revitalization order have likewise proved successful, Lake wrote. He noted the streamlined procedures for AM stations looking to employ new energy-saving MDCL technologies, and said the commission has seen a 25% increase in the number of AM broadcasters employing these technologies since the simpler procedure became effective in March. (He didn’t cite numbers; but the FCC last fall stated that 60 stations had received waivers or experimental authorizations as of that time.)
“This is just one example of the ways in which we at the commission hope to reduce the burdens on AM broadcasters that want to move their service into the 21st century, and to remain a vibrant and essential part of America’s communication infrastructure,” Lake said.
Meanwhile, reply comments in the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Notice of Inquiry are due April 18. Reply comment filings can be made here; use proceeding number 13-249.
