NAB Pushes for AM Revitalization: Antenna and Expanded-Band Rule Changes

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has kept its AM revitalization docket (MB Docket No. 13-249) open, signaling a shift in federal policy to support the long-term viability of AM radio stations. According to the Commission, this proceeding remains active because it is not a candidate for termination, as the agency considers new regulatory relief for station owners and operators.

What regulatory changes is the NAB requesting?

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) is lobbying the FCC to strip away two specific sets of rules that it argues hinder AM station performance. In a recent meeting with the Media Bureau, the trade group proposed eliminating minimum efficiency standards that currently restrict how station owners choose antennas. The NAB contends that current regulations prevent operators from installing antennas on smaller, more affordable lots closer to their intended listening audiences.

Furthermore, the NAB has requested that the FCC simplify access to the expanded band (1605-1705 kHz). The group is urging the Bureau to open a new filing window for stations to apply for these frequencies. This move follows ongoing uncertainty regarding the status of stations currently operating in the expanded band. Since the early 2000s, broadcasters have waited for clarity on whether the agency will require them to surrender their regular-band licenses in exchange for expanded-band access, a policy question that remains unresolved.

How are small-market broadcasters pushing for expansion?

A coalition of 20 small and mid-size broadcast operators petitioned the FCC in January to broaden the scope of the current revitalization efforts. These operators argue that the most successful component of the FCC’s decade-long effort was the FM translator relocation policy. They are now seeking two critical revisions to that policy:

• Expanded Radius: The coalition wants the acquisition radius for translators increased from the previous 250 miles to 500 miles.
• Permanent Rules: The group proposes moving away from temporary filing windows toward a permanent rule, arguing that temporary windows encourage “gamesmanship” and spectrum warehousing.

These operators maintain that these changes are essential for AM stations to reach listeners who have largely migrated to the FM band.

How does current policy compare to past revitalization efforts?

The FCC’s revitalization journey began in 2013, evolving significantly under different administrations. The following table contrasts the foundational changes made during the tenure of former Chair Ajit Pai with the current demands from industry stakeholders.

While the initial phase focused on digital-only AM stations and relaxed simulcast rules, the current push emphasizes infrastructure flexibility. The NAB specifically highlighted to the Media Bureau that AM stations continue to serve a “vital role” in public safety and the security of critical national infrastructure, a point used to justify further regulatory relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the FCC keeping the AM revitalization docket open?
The FCC determined that the proceeding is not a good candidate for termination because it continues to evaluate how to best support AM radio operators and public safety infrastructure.

What is the “expanded band” for AM radio?
The expanded band refers to the 1605-1705 kHz frequency range. Broadcasters have sought more consistent rules regarding access to these frequencies for two decades.

What is an FM translator?
An FM translator is a low-power station that rebroadcasts the signal of an AM station on an FM frequency, allowing AM operators to reach listeners who use FM-capable devices.

Are you a broadcaster affected by these potential policy shifts? Share your thoughts on whether a 500-mile translator radius would help your station in the comments below, or subscribe to our industry newsletter for ongoing updates on FCC proceedings.