Support Low Power FM Radio
What Is LPFM?
Low Power FM -- LPFM for short -- refers to community-based, nonprofit radio stations that operate at 100 watts or less and have a broadcast reach of only a few miles.
Because LPFM stations are local and noncommercial, they provide information and perspectives often ignored by mainstream radio. They are uniquely positioned to meet local needs by:
- Giving a voice to local groups and people who otherwise lack access to the media.
- Offering a platform for discussing local issues.
- Providing news, information and viewpoints ignored by traditional media.
- Offering a training ground for students and others looking for a start in the radio business.
- Strengthening neighborhood and community identity.
See who else benefits from LPFM
Congress and LPFM
Since Congress first authorized LPFM stations in 2000, the Federal Communications Commission has awarded more than 800 LPFM licenses to civil rights organizations, schools and church groups.
Read About LPFM Success Stories
Thousands more applications for LPFM licenses have been blocked, preventing local communities from setting up their own LPFM stations. Under pressure from Big Media lobbyists, legislators attached an unnecessary rule that limits LPFM stations to rural areas because of claims they might interfere with signals from full power stations.
Congress ordered the FCC to study the issue, and, in 2003, the FCC released a $2 million study -- known as the "Mitre Report" -- which found that increasing the number of LPFM stations would not interfere with full-power stations. The FCC then urged Congress to repeal the LPFM restrictions.
New bipartisan legislation in the House and Senate promises to open the radio dial to thousands of new LPFM stations across the country.
Support LPFM!
On June 21, 2007, Reps. Mike Doyle (D-Penn.) and Lee Terry (R-Neb.) and Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) introduced the Local Community Radio Act (H.R. 2802/ S. 1675).
This bill would allow new LPFM radio stations in cities, towns and suburbs across the country, clearing space for independent and local programming that will bring needed diversity and local voices back to the airwaves.
Support this legislation today and help bring local radio to your community!
Support Local Radio: Send Your Comments to the FCC
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