LPFM bill approved by Senate Commerce Committee 10-30-07
Wednesday, 31 October 2007 21:57
This afternoon, the Senate Commerce Committee approved S.1675, the Local Community Radio Act of 2007. The bill, introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and John McCain (R-AZ), would allow low power FM (LPFM) stations to operate on channels third adjacent to full power FM stations. This afternoon, the Senate Commerce Committee approved S.1675, the Local Community Radio Act of 2007. The bill, introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and John McCain (R-AZ), would allow low power FM (LPFM) stations to operate on channels third adjacent to full power FM stations.
 
The Committee considered eight items as part of an executive session agenda which included S.1675.  The eight items were approved as a package and passed by voice vote. Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME) filed two amendments to S.1675. The first denied pirate radio operators the ability to become LPFM licensees. The second requires the FCC to conduct an economic impact study of the effect of LPFM stations on full power FM stations. Also, Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) filed an amendment that preserves third adjacency for New Jersey radio stations. All amendments were accepted and made part of S.1675.
 
The NAB Government Relations team will continue its advocacy in opposition to S.1675 with specific focus on Senate floor strategy.  We will continue to keep you updated on any status changes.  In the meantime, please let us know if you have any questions or if we can be helpful