FCC Fixes FM Channels in Alabama and California Hamlets
Published Date: 2/12/2026
Rule
Summary
The FCC is updating radio channel assignments in several towns like Hamilton, Alabama, and Coalinga, California, to fix technical issues with vacant FM channels. These changes won’t open the door for new applications just yet, but they set the stage for future opportunities. The new rules take effect on March 26, 2026, with no immediate costs for broadcasters.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
FCC reassigns vacant FM channels
The FCC amends the FM Table of Allotments by substituting channels at five communities: Channel 277A for Hamilton, Alabama; Channel 261B1 for Coalinga, California; Channel 289A for Rocksprings, Texas; Channel 261A for Silverton, Texas; and Channel 281C2 for Spur, Texas. These rule changes take effect March 26, 2026.
Required site restrictions and coordinates
For some of the new allotments the Commission requires site restrictions and provides exact distances and coordinates: Hamilton (7 km north; 34-11-50 NL, 88-01-37 WL), Rocksprings (12.1 km west; 29-59-52 NL, 100-20-10 WL), Silverton (11 km northwest; 34-33-34 NL, 101-21-13 WL), and Spur (22.5 km east; 33-26-51 NL, 100-36-59 WL). Coalinga's allotment (36-8-23 NL, 120-21-37 WL) is allotted without a site restriction.
No immediate filing window for new allotments
The Commission states that the window period for filing applications for these vacant FM allotments will not be opened at this time and that whether to open the allotments for filing will be addressed in a subsequent order. The decision to substitute channels is effective March 26, 2026, but does not allow immediate applications.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20192, [WC Docket Nos. 25-208, 25-209; FCC 26-19; FR ID 370342] Reducing Barriers to Network Improvements and Service Changes, Accelerating Network Modernization
The FCC is making it easier and faster for phone and internet companies to upgrade old networks to new, faster technology. These changes affect companies that provide phone and internet services and will start on October 15, 2026. This update cuts red tape and helps bring better service to customers sooner, without extra costs slowing things down.
2026-20157, Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The FCC is asking the public and small businesses to help reduce paperwork by commenting on a new information collection plan. If you have fewer than 25 employees, your input is especially welcome! Comments are due by November 2, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to shape how the FCC collects info and possibly save time and money.
2026-20158, Information Collections Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking the public and businesses to review and comment on some paperwork they collect to make sure it’s useful and not too much of a hassle. They want to reduce the burden, especially for small businesses, and are updating forms related to international telecom authorizations. Comments are due by November 30, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in and help shape the process!
2026-20039, Television Broadcasting Services Norwell, Massachusetts
The FCC is switching TV channel 36 to channel 10 for WWDP in Norwell, Massachusetts, so the station can keep broadcasting without interruptions. RNN Boston License Co., the station’s owner, asked for this change and will quickly apply to operate on the new channel. This update takes effect on September 30, 2026, ensuring viewers keep enjoying their favorite shows smoothly.
2026-20038, Television Broadcasting Services Savannah, Georgia
Georgia Public Broadcasting wants to switch its Savannah TV station WVAN-TV from VHF channel 8 to UHF channel 18 to improve signal quality and help viewers get better access to local programs. This change won’t cause interference or loss of service and aims to boost your TV experience. Comments on this proposal are open until October 30, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!
2026-20005, Renewal of the Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee
The FCC is renewing the Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee (CPAAC) for two more years because it helps protect consumers and improve access for people with disabilities. This committee advises on new communication technologies and their impact, making sure everyone benefits. No big budget changes were mentioned, so it’s business as usual with a focus on keeping consumer voices heard.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-02855, Safety Standard for Crib Mattresses
The Consumer Product Safety Commission is updating the safety rules for crib mattresses to follow the newest 2025 voluntary standards, making sure baby beds stay super safe. This change affects crib mattress makers and sellers, who must follow the new rules starting May 3, 2026. No big costs are expected, but everyone should get ready for the updated safety checks!
Next: 2026-02866, Revision of the Negative Option Rule, Withdrawal of the CARS Rule, Removal of the Non-Compete Rule To Conform These Rules to Federal Court Decisions
The FTC is rolling back some recent rules after courts said so. They’re restoring the old Negative Option Rule, canceling the CARS Rule about car sales, and removing the Non-Compete Rule. These changes take effect February 12, 2026, and affect businesses and consumers dealing with subscriptions, car buying, and job contracts.