The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Media Bureau has announced a significant opportunity for Class A television, Low Power Television (LPTV), and TV translator stations. Beginning on August 20, 2024, these stations will be permitted to file major change applications to change their existing channels. This marks the end of a long-standing freeze on major modification applications that has been in place since 2010.
Key Details of the Announcement
- Effective Date: The new policy allowing channel change applications will take effect on August 20, 2024.
- Eligible Stations: The opportunity is available for all Class A television, LPTV, and TV translator stations nationwide without geographic limitations.
- Application Limitations: The current freeze will remain for other major modifications and applications for new LPTV and TV translator stations. Only channel change applications will be accepted under this new opportunity.
Application Process
- First-Come, First-Serve Basis: Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The FCC will “cut off” applications daily to determine mutual exclusivity.
- Compliance Requirements: Applications must comply with specific parameters outlined by the FCC. Non-compliant applications can be amended within 30 days to come into compliance without creating new mutual exclusivity conflicts.
- Fees: The fee for major change applications is $4,755.00 for Class A stations and $865.00 for LPTV and TV translator stations.
Additional Information
- Restrictions: Requests to move a facility greater than 30 miles are not permitted and remain subject to the existing freeze.
- Public Interest: This limitation aims to allow stations to resolve viewer reception issues and improve service to existing viewers.
- Future Announcements: The Media Bureau will announce further plans and procedures to lift the freeze on other major changes and the application process for new LPTV and TV translator stations at a later date.
Insights from Recent Discussions
As many of you remember from our recent meeting with Barbara Kreisman, Chief, Video Division, FCC Media Bureau, this policy change has been in the works for some time. Kreisman emphasized the importance of addressing viewer reception issues and improving television service quality and finishing up of the LPTV repack rebuilds. Her insights and leadership have been instrumental in shaping this new opportunity for our industry.
How to File
Applications must be filed electronically via the Commission’s Licensing and Management System (LMS) on the appropriate FCC forms:
- Class A Stations: Use FCC Form 2100 – Schedule E.
- LPTV/TV Translator Stations: Use FCC Form 2100 – Schedule C.
Contact Information
For legal inquiries, contact Shaun Maher at Shaun.Maher@fcc.gov or (202) 418-2324. For technical questions, contact Mark Colombo at Mark.Colombo@fcc.gov or (202) 418-7611.
This opportunity is a significant development for the LPTV community, allowing for improved service and resolution of long-standing channel issues. Stay tuned for further updates and instructions from the FCC.
For additional details, please refer to the full public notice or visit the FCC’s Licensing and Management System at LMS Login.
