FCC Revives Ghost FM Channels in Forgotten Towns
Published Date: 2/19/2025
Rule
Summary
The FCC is bringing back some FM radio channels that were taken off the list because their licenses got canceled or applications were dropped. These channels are now open again but won’t be available for new applications just yet. This update affects radio broadcasters and communities waiting for new stations, with future chances to apply coming soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
FM Channels Reinstated as Vacant
The FCC has reinstated certain FM channels as vacant FM allotments in various communities. These channels were previously removed after a construction permit or license was granted, but are now vacant because the associated authorizations were cancelled or long-form auction applications were dismissed.
No Application Window Opened Now
Although the FM channels were reinstated as vacant allotments, the FCC will not open a filing window for applications at this time. The Commission says it will decide later, in a subsequent order, whether and when to open these allotments for filing.
Engineering Compliance Confirmed
FCC staff performed an engineering analysis and confirmed that the vacant FM allotments comply with the minimum distance separation requirements and the principal community coverage requirements of the Commission's rules. That means the reinstated allotments meet the technical spacing and coverage rules the FCC uses.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Start a Free Government Policy Watch to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in