Who will own the new DTV stations?
Initially, the DTV stations will be owned by the same broadcasters that currently own television stations in your communities. In the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Congress authorized the Commission to allocate a new digital station to each existing television licensees for each analog station it owns and operates. Pursuant to Congress’ direction, during the transition to DTV, the new DTV stations will be owned and operated by the same broadcasters who had been operating analog stations on a one-for-one basis. Once the transition is complete, some DTV licenses may be available for new entities. 26. Where can local government officials or a DTV licensee find assistance in understanding some of the complex issues involved in tower construction and siting to facilitate the swift resolution of zoning/permitting proceedings? The stations themselves can explain much of the technical information submitted in such a proceeding, and are typically willing to do so. In addition, the State and L
