REC Networks is all about a citizen's access to spectrum. This means assuring that new entrants are able to enter into broadcasting for the first time. While the FCC's "Broadcast Incubator" program was touted to do just that, it is not. Instead, it is an underhanded method of allowing large corporate broadcasters a "free-pass" on the local ownership caps under the guise of a "mentorship" program. While we support "big" broadcasters providing mentorship to upstarts, a "free-pass" on the ownership cap is not the appropriate reward where a more appropriate reward could be consideration such a waiver or reduction of annual regulatory fees. In her dissenting statement to the Report and Order, FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel states that she fails to see how this decision will make a material difference in the diversity of media ownership due to its narrowness. Rosenworcel also questions how this will satisfy the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, which has already ordered the FCC, three times, to examine their ruling's impacts on ownership diversity.
Last Friday, Prometheus Radio Project and Media Mobilizing Project has filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit challenging the FCC's "Broadcast Incubator" decision. REC supports this motion and commends the hard work by PRP and MMP in their effort to bring more judicial oversight over the FCC and the majority commissioners who have their sights set on continuing to deplete ownership diversity from the broadcast spectrum. REC wishes PRP and MMP the best of success in this litigation.
A joint statement by Prometheus Radio Project and Media Mobilizing Project can be found here:
https://www.prometheusradio.org/public-interest-groups-appeal-third-federal-communications-commission-media-ownership-decision
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About REC Networks: REC is a leading policy voice supporting a citizen’s ability to access radio spectrum. The advocacy side of REC was responsible for the writing of RM-11749, the 250-watt LPFM proposal and RM-11810, the LPFM improvement petition. Other REC advocacy initiatives include alternate spectrum for community radio expansion in areas where FM spectrum is not available, driving changes to the FCC rules to allow more flexibility for LPFM stations while remaining compliant with the Local Community Radio Act. REC serves all six segments of LPFM including cause-based organizations, public sector agencies, micro radio stations, community media organizations, secular educational organizations and faith-based organizations. REC also provides consulting and filing services for LPFM stations, FM translators (including FM translators related to smaller AM broadcast stations) and full-service FM stations. REC operates several radiocommunications related websites and REC-FM, the official audio stream of REC Networks in conjunction with the Riverton Radio Project. More information about REC is at our website http://recnet.com.
