1(1 FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON MIS OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Gregory W. Meeks U.S. House of Representatives 2234 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Meeks: 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 Gregory W. Meeks 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS CoMMIssIoN WASHINGTON OFFICE OF July 27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Grace Meng U.S. House of Representatives 1317 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Meng: 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 Grace Meng 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Jerrold Nadler U.S. House of Representatives 2110 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Nadler: 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 Jerrold Nadler 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 MMIsS'P' OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Donald Norcross U.S. House of Representatives 1531 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Norcross: 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 Donald Norcross 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 ,\ FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASH INGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Frank Pallone U.S. House of Representatives 237 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Pallone: 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 Frank Pallone 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, Tom Wheeler ,FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASH INGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Bill Pascrell U.S. House of Representatives 2370 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Pascrell: 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 Bill Pascrell 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 THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Donald M. Payne U.S. House of Representatives 103 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Payne: 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 Donald M. Payne 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Charles B. Rangel U.S. House of Representatives 2354 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Rangel: 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 Charles B. Range! 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF July 27, 2015THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Tom Reed U.S. House of Representatives 1504 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Reed: 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 Tom Reed 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Kathleen Rice U.S. House of Representatives 1508 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Rice: 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 Kathleen Rice 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, Thm Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Jose E. Serrano U.S. House of Representatives 2227 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Serrano: 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 Jose E. Serrano 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Albio Sires U.S. House of Representatives 2342 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Sires: 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 \A/hile 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 Albio Sires 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON fMISs\0 OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Louise M. Slaughter U.S. House of Representatives 2469 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Slaughter: 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 Louise M. Slaughter 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, Tom Wheeler V ' FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION4rA WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Elise Stefanik U.S. House of Representatives 512 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Stefanik: 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 Elise Stefanik 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON AlMISs0' OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN July 27, 2015 The Honorable Paul Tonko U.S. House of Representatives 2463 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Tonko: 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 Paul Tonko 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF July 27, 2015 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Nydia M. Velazquez U.S. House of Representatives 2302 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congresswoman Velazquez: 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 Nydia M. Velazquez 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, Tom Wheeler FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION o1ffr1 WASHINGTON OFFICE OF July 27, 2015 THE CHAIRMAN The Honorable Lee Zeldin U.S. House of Representatives 15 17 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Dear Congressman Zeldin: 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 Lee Zeldin 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 Tom Wheeler