Who can get a license to operate a Low Power Radio FM station?
LPFM licenses are available to community groups, high schools, labor unions, churches and other nonprofit organizations that would like to reach out to a small, geographically concentrated group of individuals. About 780 radio stations, broadcasting at 100 watts or less, are currently successfully serving communities across the country, with many more in the process of applying for a license or in construction phase. Legislative History of Low Power Radio Service • In January 2000, the FCC voted to issue low power FM radio licenses, a huge victory for communities nationwide where, in many instances, consolidation of commercial media outlets has led to decreased localism and diversity on the airwaves. • Incumbent broadcasters, represented in large part by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), opposed the FCC’s move and lobbied Congress to stop the service, warning that low power FM radio would cause “oceans of interference” for full power stations. Responding to this pressure,
