Effective July 22, 2023

In this announcement, we are updating our Third Generation Filing Window Conflict Of Interest (COI) policy to address the current trends of the Show of Interest requests that we are receiving.  In addition, we need to clarify how the concept of how COI would apply to existing broadcast stations seeking services from REC Networks.  The general objective of a COI policy is to assure that REC will not put two LPFM applicants into a situation where they will be competing against each other in the window.

Updated August 17, 2023

In 2003, the FCC unknowingly caused the Great Translator Invasion.  In this window, over 13,000 applications were filed for new FM translators in the Auction 83 filing window, of which, almost one-third of the applications were filed by two commonly owned entities.  What would entail afterwards was the loss of many opportunities for new LPFM stations, a place in federal legislation, massive permit trafficking and one of the biggest government handouts ever for an auction that only raised $574,711 to the US Treasury.  

The last LPFM filing window was in 2013, nearly 10 years ago.  This was a window that included applicants who were encouraged to partake in the changes made to the service as a result of the Local Community Radio Act of 2010.  The LCRA's lifting of the third-adjacent channel protection requirement opened up many opportunities, especially in suburban and urban areas.  The window resulted in many success stories and some drama.