The FCC upheld a $5,000 fine against WTRI Holding for taking WTRI(AM), Brunswick, Md., off the air without Special Temporary Authority.
Initially levied last March, the commission said in its decision the station went off the air for seven months without permission, and without providing the agency an explanation.
Stations that need to remain silent for more than 30 days must ask the FCC for permission to do so.
The agency fine has progressed to a Forfeiture Order; the agency said WTRI must pay the fine and the FCC will withhold granting the station’s license renewal until that’s done.
