Media Contact: 
Janice Wise, (202) 418-8165
janice.wise@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC CONSIDERS ELIMINATING OR REVISING WWII-ERA 
RULES FOR TV AND FM ANTENNA SITES
Action Continues Commission’s Efforts to Modernize its Media Rules 
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WASHINGTON, October 25, 2019—The Federal Communications Commission today issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on whether to eliminate or revise its current rules regarding access to FM radio and TV antenna sites.  These rules prohibit the grant, or renewal, of a license for an FM or TV station if the applicant or licensee controls an antenna site that is peculiarly suitable for broadcasting in the area and does not make the site available for use by other similar licensees.

In 1945, the Commission adopted common antenna site rules at a time when the FM and TV industries were still in their infancy, broadcasting infrastructure was sparse, and restrictions were imposed on new construction permits to conserve resources for the war effort. The dramatic increase in the number of television and radio stations since the World War II era has contributed to a corresponding increase in antenna sites suitable for broadcasting, the vast majority of which appear to be owned by non-broadcast entities.  Therefore, the Commission invites comment on whether these rarely invoked requirements remain necessary today to promote competition and ensure an adequate variety of FM and TV broadcast sources. 

Today’s rulemaking furthers the Commission’s Modernization of Media Regulation Initiative, launched in 2017, to eliminate or modify media regulations that are outdated, unnecessary or unduly burdensome, and represents the 17th modernization proceeding launched by the Media Bureau.

Action by the Commission October 25, 2019 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 19-106).  Chairman Pai, Commissioners O’Rielly, Carr, Rosenworcel, and Starks approving.  Chairman Pai and Commissioner O’Rielly issuing separate statements.

MB Docket Nos. 19-282, 17-105

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Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / TTY: (888) 835-5322 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov 

This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).