FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF July 27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN
The Honorable Yvette D. Clarke
U.S. House of Representatives
2351 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Clarke:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordinatibn with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.1
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Yvette D. Clarke
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
er
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMM ISSION
WASHINGTON
'WMIS0'
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Chris Collins
U.S. House of Representatives
1117 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Collins:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Chris Collins
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
Im W eeler
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Joseph Crowley
U.S. House of Representatives
1436 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Crowley:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio. 1
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Joseph Crowley
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Tom Wheeler
((() FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASH INGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Dan Donovan
U.S. House of Representatives
1725 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 205 15-3211
Dear Congressman Donovan:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Dan Donovan
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
eeler
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Eliot L. Engel
U.S. House of Representatives
2161 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Engel:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Eliot L. Engel
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
er
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF July 27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN
The Honorable Chris Gibson
U.S. House of Representatives
1708 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Gibson:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Chris Gibson
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely
eeler
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Richard Hanna
U.S. House of Representatives
319 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Hanna:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Richard Hanna
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely, /
ee1eT
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Brian Higgins
U.S. House of Representatives
2459 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Higgins:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Brian Higgins
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
eler
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Steve Israel
U.S. House of Representatives
2457 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Israel:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Steve Israel
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
om Wheeler
(i1) FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSIONWASHINGTON
OFFICE OF July 27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN
The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries
U.S. House of Representatives
1339 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Jeffries:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely
heeler
,-\
((1) FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF July27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN
The Honorable John Katko
U.S. House of Representatives
1123 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Katko:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable John Katko
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
Teeie'
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASH INGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Peter T. King
U.S. House of Representatives
339 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman King:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same maimer as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Peter T. King
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
cerel/
Tom Wheeler
r) FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSIONWASHINGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015
The Honorable Leonard Lance
U.S. House of Representatives
133 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Lance:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Leonard Lance
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
om Wheeler
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF July 27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN
The Honorable Nita M. Lowey
U.S. House of Representatives
2365 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Lowey:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Nita M. Lowey
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
Wheeler
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF July 27, 2015
THE CHAIRMAN
The Honorable Carolyn B. Maloney
U.S. House of Representatives
2308 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Maloney:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.'
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Carolyn B. Maloney
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
FEDERAL COMMUNICATiONS CoMMissioN
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF July 27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN
The Honorable Sean Patrick Maloney
U.S. House of Representatives
1529 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Maloney:
Thank you for your letter regarding pirate radio. I appreciate you sharing your views on
this very important issue and I look forward to working with you in the future.
The FCC is committed to enforcement of the rules prohibiting unlicensed radio
broadcasting. We approach the pirate radio issue in the same manner as other enforcement
matters, by focusing on the most egregious violators and those that provide support to those
parties. This fiscal year, the Commission's Enforcement Bureau (EB) has issued more than 100
pirate radio enforcement actions.
As you may know, pirate radio investigations are resource intensive -- a typical pirate
investigation requires many hours of work by multiple EB field agents, often working overnight
and on weekends in neighborhoods that require close coordination with local law enforcement
officials to ensure staff safety. The time and expense of these cases present particular difficulties
in the current flat budget environment, where the Commission's staffing is at its lowest point in
30 years and overtime is less available. Accordingly, we must prioritize our work based on
existing resources and the harm to the public. Thus, matters posing an imminent threat to public
safety or directly harming large numbers of consumers must take precedence over other matters,
including pirate radio.1
Moreover, pirate radio presents persistent enforcement issues. Although some pirate
operators cease operations after receiving an initial warning letter, they are often quickly
replaced by other pirates. Many other pirate operators may ignore the warning or resume
broadcasting from another location. Even monetary penalties and equipment seizures do not
deter the most aggressive pirate operators, who simply refuse to pay the FCC forfeitures and
obtain cheap replacement equipment online.
Given these facts, it is clear that the pirate radio problem cannot be solved by
enforcement alone. Therefore, I have created an inter-bureau task force to work with outside
stakeholders, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), to develop policy and
enforcement options to address the issue. Indeed, on June 29, 2015, this group held a Pirate
While it is theoretically possible that pirate radio interference could prevent listeners from hearing the Emergency
Alert System (EAS) signal from licensed broadcasters, we are unaware of any complaints alleging such interference.
Page 2-The Honorable Sean Patrick Maloney
Radio Roundtable with NAB and other broadcaster representatives. Some of the ideas discussed
included:
• Revision of the Communications Act to provide for "aiding and abetting" liability for
landlords and other parties that provide material support to pirate operators;
• Identification of trade associations and law enforcement entities to educate landlords,
advertisers and others about the unlawful nature of pirate operations and develop best
practices;
• Release of a policy statement/enforcement advisory that could be shared with these
groups and help channel state, local, and federal resources on pirates; and
• Additional FCC, state, and local enforcement options for reducing pirate activities.
The roundtable was a good first step but much more needs to be done. I appreciate your
interest in this matter and look forward to working with you and other stakeholders on innovative
solutions to the pirate radio problem. Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
incere y,
om Wheeler