REC Networks Substack

The Media Bureau's criteria for claiming "diversity" points in the window public notice is inconsistent with the original rule. REC also issues statement on CBI's request for a delay.

FCC to require firewalls, stronger passwords and prompt updates of security patches. Proposes enhanced EAS geotargeting, earthquake alerts and software-based alerting.

REC announces bandwidth cap for limited offering and processing priorities for the August NCE filing window.

It's showtime! For the first time in 26 years, the FCC is going to make available new construction permits in the 88.1~91.9 reserved band.

FCC staff confirms that pending Channel 6 applications do not require protection. REC still advocates for the elimination of these analog-era protection rules.

FCC upholds the 10-cap for full service and the 2-cap for most LPFMs. Enacts primary station requirement and invokes the REC's proposed retention period to sway gamesmanship and speculation.

Auction 114 will make available 132 pre-determined vacant FM allotments for new full-service FM broadcast stations.

LPFM being a hyperlocal service is intended to serve only a small area. The rules regarding commonly-owned FM translators are consistent with those intentions.

REC LPFM Advisory Letter #26 - UPDATED March 20, 2026

REC supports caps and eligibility but is advocating for a safety catch to be put in place to prevent exploitation of the window by "surrogate stations".

FCC addresses various issues that came up in the 2021 NCE FM and 2023 LPFM filing windows as well as other changes to streamline processes and change obsolete terminology in the FCC Rules.

Agency to set "ground rules" in filing window to prevent a repeat of 2003. REC provides a "first look" tool to help applicants narrow down potentially available channels.

Avoid potential forfeitures or other actions by assuring that the information on file with the FCC and the state are current, including required state annual report filings.

FCC was not impacted during the Government Shutdown.

Remaining funding from the previous appropriation means the agency will remain operational until further notice.

Things you need to know about what is coming up, what this is for and how REC will be handling this.

REC does not outright oppose a 250 or 500 mile move, however there must be safeguards put in place to protect LPFM stations and to prevent speculation.

REC's ex parte letter to OET resulted in the Office adding a weak clarification that existing "46/49" cordless phones can continue to be used, despite the deletion of the rule allowing them.

We know it is tough for LPFM, but "startup organizations" were never the original intention of the educational radio service. Therefore, LPFMs have many more challenges and must do so within the law.

The "Direct Final Rule" process needs to be used for "cleaning" the CFR of rules regarding obsolete technologies, not take away the frequency and/or power privileges of devices that are not obsolete.