An AM station in Arizona is experiencing first-hand what happens when a licensee fails to file a license renewal application on time.
Sonora Broadcasting was required to file a license renewal application for KAPR(AM) in Douglas, Ariz., on June 1, 2021, which was a full four months before the license was to expire. According to the FCC Media Bureau, the application was not filed until five days before the license was set to expire on Oct 1, 2021. According to the bureau, Sonora did not give a reason for the late filing.
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The commission’s Forfeiture Policy Statement establishes a base forfeiture of $3,000 for failing to file a required form, although the bureau may adjust that amount depending on the facts of the case.
While Sonora failed to file its application on time, the bureau said the broadcaster has not committed any other serious violations of FCC rules and did (albeit without explanation, according to the bureau) file the application before the Oct. 1 deadline.
As a result, the bureau notified Sonora it is now liable for a $3,000 forfeiture and must pay the full amount within 30 days. Within that same time period, the broadcaster also has the right to request in writing a reduction or cancellation of the proposed forfeiture.
