REC Networks Substack

LPFM being a hyperlocal service is intended to serve only a small area. The rules regarding commonly-owned FM translators are consistent with those intentions.

REC LPFM Advisory Letter #26 - UPDATED March 20, 2026

REC supports caps and eligibility but is advocating for a safety catch to be put in place to prevent exploitation of the window by "surrogate stations".

FCC addresses various issues that came up in the 2021 NCE FM and 2023 LPFM filing windows as well as other changes to streamline processes and change obsolete terminology in the FCC Rules.

Agency to set "ground rules" in filing window to prevent a repeat of 2003. REC provides a "first look" tool to help applicants narrow down potentially available channels.

Avoid potential forfeitures or other actions by assuring that the information on file with the FCC and the state are current, including required state annual report filings.

FCC was not impacted during the Government Shutdown.

Remaining funding from the previous appropriation means the agency will remain operational until further notice.

Things you need to know about what is coming up, what this is for and how REC will be handling this.

REC does not outright oppose a 250 or 500 mile move, however there must be safeguards put in place to protect LPFM stations and to prevent speculation.

REC's ex parte letter to OET resulted in the Office adding a weak clarification that existing "46/49" cordless phones can continue to be used, despite the deletion of the rule allowing them.

We know it is tough for LPFM, but "startup organizations" were never the original intention of the educational radio service. Therefore, LPFMs have many more challenges and must do so within the law.

The "Direct Final Rule" process needs to be used for "cleaning" the CFR of rules regarding obsolete technologies, not take away the frequency and/or power privileges of devices that are not obsolete.

This is hopefully our last notification for FCC post-shutdown resumption of operations.

We are still waiting on a deadline for LMS.

LMS to remain down for an extended period of time. No news yet on any further extension of filing deadlines.

ETRS Form One can now be filed and you have a week to do it.

Filing deadline of Tuesday, November 18, 2025 is set for filings due during the shutdown and next Monday.

Wednesday, November 12, 11:45PM EST update: The Federal Government is working on its orderly reopening. FCC systems remain down.

Government operations may resume as early as Thursday.