The Federal Communications Commission (“FCC” or “Commission”) announced late last week that it would open a filing window for new AM stations and for major modifications to existing AM stations between Jan. 26 and Jan. 30, 2004. The filing window will not apply to the AM expanded band (1605-1705 kHz), and the Commission also will not accept minor modification applications during the window.
To file an AM application during the window, applicants will be required to file only the technical portion of FCC Form 301 as well as the “Application to Participate in an FCC Auction” on FCC Form 175, in the event there are mutually exclusive applications that cannot be resolved through settlement. No filing fee will be required with either form.
Following the close of the window, the FCC will issue a public notice identifying mutually exclusive applications filed during the window, and specifying a settlement period for resolving exclusivity. Applications that are not mutually exclusive with any others will be required to submit the remainder of FCC Form 301 and the applicable filing fee—$3,180 for new and major change applications. Those applications that remain mutually exclusive after the settlement period will be set for auction.
Please contact us if you are interested in filing an AM application during this window or if you would like any further information regarding this matter.