FCC & Policy Briefing
Tuesday, November 10, 2026
FCC LMS PUBLIC DATA CRISIS — INDUSTRY-WIDE ENGINEERING CONCERNS
To the shock and horror of nearly no one in the private sector, the FCC's Licensing and Management System (LMS) public data files remain out of date, with the latest available information reportedly nearly a week old as of this morning.
These files are essential to broadcast engineers and attorneys preparing applications across the Commission's Mass Media services. Outdated records can produce incorrect allocation, spacing, interference and coverage studies, potentially affecting AM, FM, TV, LPTV, LPFM and translator applications.
Last week's LMS failure was sufficiently serious that the Media Bureau extended the NCE FM translator filing window. The continuing public-data problem raises broader questions about system reliability, data integrity and the adequacy of contractor oversight.
Perhaps it is time for the FCC Office of Inspector General (OIG) to examine LMS contract performance, procurement practices, contractor accountability and system resilience. Such an inquiry could determine whether contractual obligations are being met and whether taxpayers and regulated entities are receiving the services for which they are paying. There is presently no verified evidence establishing procurement or contract fraud.
Engineering Advisory: Until current public data files become available, engineers should regard studies based on downloaded LMS databases as provisional and independently verify critical facility and application records before certifying technical showings.
1. FCC Extends NCE FM Translator Window Following LMS Failure
The Media Bureau's November 6 Public Notice, DA 26-1201, MB Docket 26-20, extends the filing deadline for new reserved-band NCE FM translator construction permits to November 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. EST. The Bureau acknowledged that LMS technical difficulties delayed or prevented applicants from submitting Schedule 349 applications. The extension also moves the comparative snapshot date to November 23.
Why it matters: The filing extension provides relief from LMS submission problems but does not resolve concerns about outdated public engineering databases. Applicants preparing technical studies may still be working with incomplete facility information.
Action: November 23, 6:00 p.m. EST — final filing deadline. Recheck engineering studies against the latest available records and retain submission confirmations. The Bureau has indicated that the revised deadline will be strictly enforced.
2. LPFM, FM Translator and FM Booster Filing Freeze Extended
The Media Bureau has extended its existing freeze on minor-modification applications for LPFM stations, FM translators and FM boosters through the revised November 23 NCE translator filing deadline. The freeze applies to affected facilities in both the reserved and nonreserved FM bands and is intended to preserve a stable technical environment during the filing window.
Why it matters: Projects involving transmitter relocations, antenna modifications and other minor facility changes must remain on hold where the freeze applies. The continuing LMS public-data problem further complicates engineering studies for facilities affected by the freeze.
Action: November 23 — revised freeze expiration. Continue preparing technical exhibits, but do not submit affected minor-modification applications until the freeze expires or the FCC provides further guidance.
3. Nationwide EAS Test Scheduled for November 17
The FCC's Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau has confirmed the nationwide Emergency Alert System test for Tuesday, November 17, at 2:20 p.m. Eastern, with December 3 designated as the alternate date. Under DA 26-989, PS Dockets 15-91 and 15-94, FEMA will originate the test through IPAWS using Common Alerting Protocol messages in English and Spanish. Participating broadcast stations must comply with applicable testing and reporting requirements.
Why it matters: The test will evaluate stations' ability to receive, decode and retransmit nationwide emergency alerts. Engineers should verify CAP connectivity, monitoring assignments, equipment configuration and station operating procedures.
Action: November 17 — nationwide test. Assuming the test proceeds as scheduled, ETRS Form Two is due November 19 at 2:20 p.m. EST, and Form Three is due January 4, 2027.
4. Upper C-Band Transition Enters Public Review Period
The FCC's Upper C-band transition proceeding reached its November 5 deadline for initial satellite-operator transition plans. The proceeding addresses clearing additional portions of the 4 GHz satellite spectrum for terrestrial wireless operations while providing mechanisms to relocate eligible incumbent services. The submitted plans are expected to identify technical modifications, implementation schedules and estimated relocation expenses.
Why it matters: Broadcasters receiving satellite-delivered programming through affected C-band earth stations may require equipment modifications, frequency changes or alternative program-delivery arrangements. Documentation of existing facilities will be important in evaluating relocation requirements and potential reimbursement.
Action: November 30 — scheduled deadline for comments on transition plans. Review relevant filings and inventory affected receive facilities before committing to equipment changes.
5. FCC Broadcast Employment Reporting Rule Eliminated — Other EEO Requirements Remain
The FCC has formally removed the broadcast employment-reporting provisions associated with Form 395-B following the Fifth Circuit's 2025 decision vacating the Commission's attempt to reinstate the reporting requirement. The rule changes became effective November 3, 2026. The action does not eliminate other applicable broadcast equal employment opportunity requirements.
Why it matters: Broadcasters no longer face the Form 395-B workforce demographic reporting obligation, but EEO recruitment, recordkeeping, public-file and audit requirements remain separate compliance responsibilities. Stations should not interpret the elimination of Form 395-B as a general exemption from broadcast EEO regulations.
Action: Effective November 3. Remove Form 395-B from compliance checklists while maintaining other applicable EEO procedures and documentation.
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Label: FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing
