Let’s Move on Updating the AM Radio Rules

During her impressive tenure as Federal Communications Commission Acting Chairwoman, Commissioner Clyburn kicked off an important proceeding asking what the FCC should do to keep AM radio thriving. The so-called AM Radio Revitalization NPRM started an important dialogue on the future of the AM band. I am committed to taking action in this proceeding so that AM radio will flourish while also preserving the values of competition, diversity, and localism that have long been the heart and soul of broadcasting. In the coming weeks, I intend to conclude this open item with a Report and Order that will buttress AM broadcast service and ease regulatory burdens on AM broadcasters. The proposed Order would adopt specific measures to address practical problems and interference-related issues that have long plagued AM stations across the country. If adopted, these measures will enable AM stations to operate more efficiently in today’s spectrum environment. For example, the proposed Order would give stations more flexibility in choosing site locations, complying with local zoning requirements, obtaining power increases, and incorporating energy-efficient technologies. These actions will help to ease some of the technical limitations that have hindered AM stations in serving their listeners. The FCC should eliminate unnecessary rules that impair stations’ ability to serve their listeners, and we should encourage a diversity of voices however we can. My proposal does both, and I hope my fellow Commissioners will support it.

FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai released a statement: “I applaud Chairman Wheeler’s announcement that he intends to circulate an item addressing AM revitalization in the coming weeks and look forward to reviewing it. In this item, the Commission must provide immediate, short-term help to AM broadcasters and tee up for comment additional ideas to help secure the long-term future of the band. AM revitalization is a cause that has garnered widespread support from large and small broadcasters, civil rights organizations, Democrats, and Republicans. Moreover, there is nearly unanimous support in the record for the ideas put forward by the Commission under Acting Chairwoman Clyburn’s leadership. I hope that we will move forward on these proposals in the next couple of months.”