FCC Updates Broadcast Rules

At its March open meeting in Washington, the FCC adopted a sweeping update to its broadcast rules, approving a Report and Order that streamlines radio regulation, modernizes filing systems, and eliminates outdated requirements.

The order revises Parts 1, 73, 74, and 76 of the Commission’s rules to better reflect current industry practices, reduce administrative burdens, and improve clarity for broadcasters. Officials described the changes as part of a broader effort to modernize regulation and align policies with today’s technology.

A central component of the overhaul is the full transition to the FCC’s Licensing and Management System. The agency eliminated all remaining references to the legacy Consolidated Database System, making LMS the sole platform for filing and accessing broadcast applications while updating form names to match the newer system.

The Commission also adopted changes aimed at increasing flexibility for AM broadcasters, removing the longstanding requirement that stations must pursue at least a 20% power increase when modifying facilities. The revision allows for more incremental technical adjustments to better serve local communities.

 

Several outdated provisions were scrapped, including the planned removal of the 2021 cap limiting noncommercial FM applicants to 10 filings once pending applications are resolved, along with legacy rules tied to paper filing processes and obsolete television regulations stemming from the completed incentive auction.

In addition, the FCC expanded who may sign broadcast applications, allowing not only officers and directors but also “duly authorized employees”—a category that can include certain staff or volunteers—to execute filings on behalf of licensees.

The order also extends Special Temporary Authority periods from 90 to 180 days, giving stations more time to address technical or equipment issues without needing repeated extensions.

Further clarifications were adopted for low power FM stations and application processing, including defining “authorized” facilities to cover both licensed stations and construction permits for spacing protections, and reaffirming protections for earlier-filed applications during LPFM filing windows. The Commission declined to act on some proposals, such as changes to LPFM minor modification rules, signaling those issues may be taken up in future proceedings.

Overall, the FCC said the changes are designed to simplify compliance, reduce unnecessary regulation, and ensure broadcast rules keep pace with the evolving media landscape.