Local Community Radio Act Passed

Local Community Radio Act Passed
On Dec. 18 the Senate unanimously approved H.R. 6533, the Local Community Radio Act, which will allow low-power FM radio outlets to obtain broadcast licenses in U.S. communities of all sizes. The Federal Communications Commission currently limits the number of low-power FM stations that can be licensed in urban and suburban areas. "Today is a day for community radio to celebrate and for America to celebrate community radio," said Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) in a statement. "Low power FM stations allow for more viewpoints, community-centered news and a variety of alternative programming." Along with Cantwell, the bill, which passed the House the day before and now awaits President Barack Obama's signature, was shepherded by Reps. Mike Doyle (D-Penn.) and Lee Terry (R-Neb.), and Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.). (12/21)