FCC reinstating FM dup rule, could affect Power 94.9/101.9
Jun 12, 2024 14:53:07 GMT -6
Post by CAwasinNJ on Jun 12, 2024 14:53:07 GMT -6
Back in 2020 the FCC eliminated the rules that prevented radio stations that were close together in the same band from simulcasting most of their programming. Now those rules are coming back for FM stations. Specifically, stations will now be prevented from duplicating programming more than 25% of the week if their city grade (70 dBμ) contours overlap more than 50%.
Eyeballing the 70 dBμ contours of KHTB 101.9 and KENZ 94.9 they look to me like they will be affected by the reinstated rule. The simulcast started in October 2019 before the duplication rules were eliminated, so it's possible they got a waiver while a change in the rules was being considered. Stations can apply for a waiver for the revived rule too, but according to the FCC that would need to be a legitimate need for it. The question then is, will the 101.9/94.9 simulcast be split up? I'm on record as never liking the idea, so I'd like to see them split. What do you think will and/or should happen?
Eyeballing the 70 dBμ contours of KHTB 101.9 and KENZ 94.9 they look to me like they will be affected by the reinstated rule. The simulcast started in October 2019 before the duplication rules were eliminated, so it's possible they got a waiver while a change in the rules was being considered. Stations can apply for a waiver for the revived rule too, but according to the FCC that would need to be a legitimate need for it. The question then is, will the 101.9/94.9 simulcast be split up? I'm on record as never liking the idea, so I'd like to see them split. What do you think will and/or should happen?
