WASHINGTON, DC (February 3, 1999) -- Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (D-CT) applauded the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) today for its recommendation to license three new types of low-power FM broadcasters.  If approved, the rule would create new categories for 1000 watt, 100 watt, and 1-10 watt (or "microradio") FM stations.  Since she was approached by local small broadcasters last spring, DeLauro has been urging the FCC to amend licensing regulations for low-power stations.  The new categories would provide hundreds, perhaps thousands, of small radio stations across the country the opportunity to broadcast in areas dominated by large stations.

"This is great news for broadcasters and the public," said DeLauro.  "Allowing small, low-power stations to broadcast increases competition and improves diversity on the airwaves.  Communities benefit from stations providing information of unique local concern."

Minority-owned stations in particular will benefit from the change.  Like other small radio operators -- educational institutions, churches, municipalities, etc. -- minority-owned stations have decreased in number significantly since radio deregulation in 1996.

La Nueva Radio Musical is a small Spanish-format radio station in New Haven that first brought the problem to DeLauro's attention.  In May of 1998, Representatives from Nueva Radio Musical met with Congresswoman DeLauro and Aldermen Tomas Reyes and Kevin Diaz to discuss community radio and ways to help low-power stations get FCC licenses.  DeLauro wrote two letters to FCC Chairman William Kennard, and her office has been in discussions with FCC officials regarding potential changes to licensing rules.

"The proposed change merits the support of all," said Tomas Reyes Jr., President of the New Haven Board of Aldermen.  "We thank Congresswoman DeLauro for recognizing the need for Spanish language radio service and fighting to secure fair and equitable rules."

"The FCC recommendation is a tremendous step in recognizing the role that small broadcasters are playing in our communities today," said New Haven Alderman Kevin Diaz (D-15).  "My colleagues and I, as well as La Nueva Radio Musical, are pleased to know about this small victory."

If the currently proposed rule change is approved, La Nueva Radio Musical, which has been broadcasting without an FCC license, will be able to apply for a one-time, low-power license that is less expensive, and less restrictive, than licenses required for full-power stations.  FCC officials expect that total fees for a low-power license will cost less than $1000.

"Connecticut can benefit from low-power, niche format stations," said DeLauro.  "Educational and cultural stations, which often do not have the resources to broadcast over large areas, are perfect examples of why the FCC should change its rule."

The proposed rule change would enable broadcasters to transmit in areas from two to eighteen miles in diameter, far smaller than the area encompassed by most commercial radio stations.  Due to advances in technology, broadcasting over a small area has become relatively inexpensive.  For a few hundred dollars, broadcasters can buy equipment that transmits at one watt, which covers an area approximately two miles in diameter.  A 100-watt signal reaches an area of 7 miles; 1,000 watts covers 18 miles.

"Like expanding cable television service, this rule change will enable small operators to provide programming that listeners want," said DeLauro.  "This rule change is good for start-up stations and listeners.  I support it whole-heartedly."

Last year, the FCC received over 13,000 inquiries from individuals and groups showing interest in low-power stations.  Due to their weaker signal and secondary status, low-power stations would not be subject to all of the rules applicable to full-power broadcasters.  However, low-power stations would not be allowed to simply re-transmit signals from full-power stations.

The FCC is proposing a number of interference protection criteria that would help insure that any new low-power FM radio station does not interfere with the integrity of existing radio stations or airport radar equipment.

The proposed rule change is open for public comment for approximately six months.  FCC officials expect the amendment process to conclude later this year, as early as late summer.

"I urge supporters of community radio to make their feelings known to the FCC," said DeLauro.  "The public comment period is a crucial step in the process.  We cannot let it pass without registering our opinion."

To submit written comment on the proposed rule, write:

 Chairman William Kennard
 Federal Communications Commission
 1919 M Street NW
 Washington, DC  20554

To submit comment electronically, e-mail Chairman Kennard at wkennard@fcc.gov

Further information on the proposed low-power radio license rule change can be accessed through the FCC website, http://www.fcc.gov/