NAB President/CEO Eddie Fritts called on government regulators to deny the request of satellite radio companies to operate land-based signal repeaters to enhance coverage areas. Fritts also urged the satellite radio providers to “at long last” provide the FCC with specific business plans.
“The time for subterfuge by XM Radio and Sirius Radio is over,” said Fritts.
Fritts’ comments came as the NAB submitted documents at the FCC questioning whether satellite radio companies intend to turn their businesses into locally-based “terrestrial” services, complete with locally-originated programming.
One of the satellite radio subscription services, XM Satellite Radio, has said it believes it will receive its FCC authorization to operate its terrestrial repeaters by its planned Sept. 12 commercial launch.
NAB to FCC: Deny Terrestrial Repeater OK to XM and Sirius
NAB to FCC: Deny Terrestrial Repeater OK to XM and Sirius