FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 24, 2026

 

1. FCC issues important EAS cybersecurity FAQs five days before compliance deadline

The FCC has issued new FAQs clarifying the cybersecurity rules that become mandatory September 29. Equipment unable to support the specified 15-character password standard must either be replaced or protected with an approved alternative authentication method; equipment behind a firewall still needs secure authentication, and passwords generally cannot be reused across devices. The guidance also confirms that third-party programmers directly inserting material into a station's program stream can fall within the requirements.

Why it matters: This resolves several practical engineering questions left open by the original order and makes clear that merely putting legacy equipment behind a firewall is not sufficient.

Action: Review Internet-connected EAS/program-chain equipment against the new FAQs and correct deficiencies by September 29.

2. LPTV 5G Broadcast petition formally opens for comment

The Media Bureau has opened a proceeding on a petition by XGN/X1 Mobile and Tyche Media seeking authority for LPTV stations to use 5G Broadcast voluntarily as an alternative to ATSC 1.0 or ATSC 3.0. The proposal would require a free over-the-air linear program stream and would exclude LPTV stations entitled to mandatory MVPD carriage. This is only a rulemaking proposal; 5G Broadcast is not presently authorized as an LPTV transmission standard.

Why it matters: If ultimately adopted, this could create a substantially different technical and business path for LPTV spectrum, particularly for datacasting/mobile reception applications.

Action: Comments due October 19; replies November 18. Worth following for LPTV clients even if there is no immediate filing interest.

3. FY 2026 FCC regulatory fees are due tonight

FY 2026 regulatory fees must be received through CORES by 11:59 p.m. EDT today, September 24. Late payment automatically incurs the statutory 25% penalty, and delinquency can interfere with processing other FCC applications or, if unresolved, ultimately threaten an authorization.

Why it matters: This is today's hard FCC deadline for commercial broadcast licensees and therefore the most immediate compliance item in the briefing.

Action: Confirm actual payment in CORES today, especially for clients with pending STAs, CPs, modifications, assignments or renewals.

4. AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act clears House — Senate is now the remaining hurdle

The House has passed the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which would require AM reception as standard equipment in new passenger vehicles. If enacted, DOT would have one year to issue implementing rules, with the general vehicle requirement taking effect two to three years afterward; the legislation also accommodates reception of hybrid digital AM. It is not yet law.

Why it matters: For AM broadcasters this is a significant step toward preserving the automobile as the service's principal reception platform, but the bill still has to clear the Senate before this Congress ends.

Action: Watch the Senate version through year-end. No FCC or station action is presently required.

5. White House accelerates unprecedented federal review of state voter rolls

The administration is pressing federal agencies to accelerate review of voter-registration data obtained from at least 47 states, using federal databases to identify possible noncitizen registrations ahead of the November midterms. The effort is confirmed, but findings from database matches do not by themselves establish illegal voting, and the program is already generating legal and privacy concerns.

Why it matters: This represents an unusually broad federal role in an election-administration function traditionally handled primarily by states and could produce litigation over federal authority, voter removals and data use immediately before a national election.

Action: No public compliance action. Watch for court intervention or state challenges before November 3, particularly if database matches begin producing large-scale voter-roll removals.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 23, 2026

1. FCC regulatory fees due tomorrow — payment responsibility is on the licensee

FY 2026 FCC regulatory fees must be received by 11:59 p.m. EDT tomorrow, September 24, through CORES. The FCC does not bill regulatees; each licensee is responsible for determining and paying the correct amount, and late payment automatically triggers a 25% penalty. (Mondaq)

Why it matters: This is the immediate hard deadline for commercial AM/FM/TV/LPTV/translator facilities. Delinquency can also cause the FCC to withhold action on or dismiss otherwise unrelated applications. (Broadcast Law Blog)

Action: Confirm actual CORES payment today, particularly for clients with pending STAs, modifications, CPs, assignments or renewals.

2. EAS cybersecurity rules become effective Monday

The FCC's new EAS cybersecurity requirements take effect September 29 under PS Docket Nos. 22-329 and 25-224. The rules require targeted protections including stronger authentication/password practices, prompt security-related software and firmware updating, and firewalling or equivalent isolation of covered equipment. (Fastnexa)

Why it matters: The rule reaches beyond the EAS encoder/decoder to STLs and remotely managed equipment used to route, process or insert programming, potentially including automation, processors, remote controls and other IP-connected broadcast-chain equipment. (Broadcast Law Blog)

Action: Complete and document the station network/equipment review before Monday, September 29.

3. Nationwide EAS test — translator/repeater filing distinction deserves attention

FCC/FEMA's nationwide EAS test is confirmed for November 17 at 2:20 p.m. ET, with December 3 as the backup date. EAS Participants generally must file three ETRS forms, but certain translator and repeater facilities are exempt from ETRS registration and reporting even though the underlying EAS requirements applicable to the facility still need to be considered. (Mondaq)

Why it matters: For groups operating full-power stations plus translators/LPTVs, this is a reason to determine facility-by-facility ETRS responsibility rather than simply generating filings for every Facility ID.

Action: ETRS Form One is due October 30. Test November 17; Form Two follows shortly after the test and Form Three is due in January.

4. Auction 114 FM freeze has one week remaining

The FCC's freeze on commercial and NCE FM minor-change applications remains in force through September 30 while Auction 114 short-form applications are accepted. Form 175 applications for the 132 vacant commercial FM allotments also close September 30.

Why it matters: Ordinary §73.207/§73.215 FM facility-change applications remain blocked this week. For engineering already underway, Auction 114 applicants' disclosed preferred-site coordinates should be checked before finalizing post-freeze spacing work.

Action: Do not submit covered FM minor changes until the freeze terminates. Auction 114 Form 175 deadline: September 30 at 6:00 p.m. ET.

5. White House press-access dispute escalates into federal litigation

CNN, MS NOW and Politico have sued the Trump administration after being barred from White House access; major television networks responded by suspending participation in the White House television pool, temporarily removing the principal shared video source for presidential events. The plaintiffs contend the exclusions violate the First Amendment; no court has yet resolved those claims. (Reuters)

Why it matters: This has moved beyond a routine press dispute: it directly concerns whether the executive branch may condition access to government facilities on the perceived favorability of news coverage, while simultaneously affecting the broadcast networks' ability to obtain presidential video.

Action: No broadcaster compliance action. Watch the federal court proceeding; any ruling defining the government's authority to exclude specific news organizations could have substantial First Amendment and newsgathering consequences.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 22, 2026

1. FCC dismisses 36 LPFM applications — strong warning on localism and de facto networks

The Media Bureau yesterday dismissed 36 applications from the 2023 LPFM window after concluding that the applicants did not actually satisfy §73.853(b)'s local-presence requirement. The applicants shared ties to Wade Rathke and the Affiliated Media Foundation Movement; although the Bureau did not need to reach a final real-party-in-interest finding, it said the record suggested an effort to establish a prohibited multistate LPFM network. (FCC ID)

Why it matters: This is useful precedent for LPFM application work: a convenient local mailing address or "local representative" is not a substitute for an actual local headquarters/campus or the required board residency. The dismissals also converted three MX situations into singleton grants.

Action: For pending LPFM matters, verify that claimed local headquarters are genuine operating locations and documented as such. The Bureau says remaining related applications—and any reconsideration petitions—may receive additional real-party-in-interest scrutiny.

2. FCC regulatory fees due Thursday — two days remain

FY 2026 regulatory fees must be received through CORES by 11:59 p.m. EDT September 24. Commercial AM/FM, full-power TV and applicable secondary television facilities should now be considered at the hard-deadline stage; late payment produces the statutory 25% penalty and delinquency can interfere with processing other FCC applications. (Broadcast Law Blog)

Why it matters: For clients with active STAs, CPs, modifications, assignments or renewals, an overlooked accounting item can become a licensing problem.

Action: Confirm actual CORES payment—not merely that payment was authorized—by Thursday night.

3. EAS cybersecurity deadline is one week away

The FCC's new EAS security practices become mandatory September 29. Broadcasters must address authentication/password security, timely installation of security-related software and firmware updates, and firewalling or equivalent network segmentation for EAS equipment and other remotely managed equipment in the program chain. (Broadcast Law Blog)

Why it matters: Engineering compliance can extend beyond the EAS encoder/decoder to IP STLs, automation, processors, remote controls and transmitter-related equipment where those systems route, process or insert programming.

Action: Finish the station equipment/network inventory and document compliance before September 29. Do not assume that securing only the EAS box satisfies the rule.

4. Nationwide EAS test adds October 30 ETRS deadline

The FCC has formally announced that FEMA will conduct a nationwide EAS test November 17 at 2:20 p.m. ET, using a CAP/IPAWS message and the NPT event code; December 3 is the backup date. The FCC specifically recommends checking EAS handbooks, equipment configuration and monitoring arrangements in advance. (FCC Docs)

Why it matters: This turns EAS readiness into a two-stage engineering task: satisfy next week's cybersecurity rules, then prepare stations for the first nationwide EAS test since 2023.

Action: ETRS Form One is due October 30. The nationwide test is November 17; stations should verify monitoring assignments, CAP connectivity and EAS equipment operation well before then.

5. U.S.–Greenland agreement substantially expands American Arctic military presence

The United States, Denmark and Greenland are expected today to formalize an agreement allowing a substantial expansion of the U.S. military presence in Greenland, including two additional operating locations alongside Pituffik Space Base. Denmark maintains that sovereignty remains Danish/Greenlandic despite President Trump's characterization of the agreement as giving the United States permanent security control; the complete legal text has not yet been published. (Reuters)

Why it matters: This is a consequential U.S. defense-policy development rather than routine diplomacy. It substantially expands American Arctic infrastructure at a time when missile warning, space operations, Russian activity and access to Arctic routes and minerals have become strategic priorities.

Action: No public compliance action. Treat claims about permanent U.S. control cautiously until the actual agreement is released; the confirmed development is expanded U.S. military access, not a transfer of Greenlandic sovereignty.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 21, 2026

 

1. FCC schedules nationwide EAS test — new ETRS deadlines now fixed

The FCC and FEMA have scheduled the first nationwide EAS test since 2023 for November 17 at 2:20 p.m. ET, with December 3 as the backup date. FEMA will originate a CAP message through IPAWS using the NPT event code; AM/FM, LPFM, full-power TV, Class A and LPTV stations and other EAS participants must participate. (FCC Docs)

Why it matters: This creates a new set of mandatory station filings and makes EAS equipment configuration, monitoring assignments, firmware and clock synchronization immediate engineering issues.

Action: ETRS Form One is due October 30. Form Two is due by 2:20 p.m. ET November 19 and Form Three by January 4, 2027. Stations should verify monitoring assignments and current EAS firmware well before the test.

2. FCC inspection of Michigan AM is a useful warning on DA operation, STA and EAS

The Enforcement Bureau issued a Notice of Violation to WSDS(AM), Salem Township, Michigan, after finding the station operating 36.6% above authorized daytime power, continuing after sunset with its daytime power and pattern, lacking reliable antenna-monitor phase/current readings, and failing to obtain an STA for extended operation at variance. Inspectors also found deficient EAS logs and monitoring of the wrong Local Primary stations. (Radio World)

Why it matters: This is unusually relevant to AM consulting because the violations cover several recurring real-world issues at once: DA monitor operation, day/night switching, power tolerance, operation beyond the 30-day notification period, STA requirements and EAS monitoring assignments.

Action: The licensee has 20 days to respond. For clients operating reduced power or with impaired DA monitoring, this is a good reminder to check whether a notification has aged into an STA requirement.

3. Regulatory fees due Thursday — FCC has demonstrated that nonpayment can ultimately cost the license

FY 2026 regulatory fees must reach the FCC through CORES by 11:59 p.m. EDT September 24. Late payment carries a 25% penalty and can interfere with application processing; the Commission recently revoked a Montana FM license after the licensee failed to resolve $6,754.80 in delinquent regulatory fees despite an Order to Pay or Show Cause. (Broadcast Law Blog)

Why it matters: This week's deadline has a genuine licensing consequence, not merely a financial penalty. A fee delinquency can become particularly troublesome when a client subsequently needs an STA, modification, assignment or renewal processed.

Action: Thursday, September 24, 11:59 p.m. EDT. Confirm payment rather than merely assuming accounting has handled it.

4. ABC asks federal court to stop FCC's unprecedented early license reviews

The Walt Disney Company and ABC filed their latest challenge Thursday seeking to block the FCC from forcing early renewal review of eight ABC-owned television licenses that ordinarily would not come up for renewal until 2028. ABC argues the action is retaliation for protected editorial speech; the FCC disputes that characterization and says its investigation concerns potential Communications Act and rule violations. The court has not decided the merits. (Reuters)

Why it matters: The case could establish important limits on the Commission's ability to use the broadcast license-renewal process outside the normal renewal cycle, with implications extending well beyond ABC.

Action: No station action presently required. A federal-court hearing is expected in early October; the FCC has agreed to provide advance notice before issuing a hearing order involving the licenses.

5. Supreme Court leaves USPS mail-ballot restrictions blocked for November election

The Supreme Court of the United States declined to allow the Postal Service to enforce the administration's new mail-ballot requirements while litigation continues. USPS subsequently stopped work on the computer system intended to implement those requirements, meaning existing state mail-ballot procedures remain operative for the November 3 midterms. (Investing.com)

Why it matters: This resolves, at least for the coming election, a significant uncertainty over federal intervention in state mail-voting procedures and removes the immediate prospect of a new nationwide USPS ballot-verification regime.

Action: No new USPS ballot requirements apply for November 3. The separate Supreme Court dispute over use of the federal SAVE citizenship database for voter-roll verification remains a matter to watch.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 18, 2026

 

1. FCC approves unusually high foreign equity in Paramount/WBD transaction

The FCC's Media Bureau yesterday granted Paramount authority for foreign investors to hold 49.5% of its equity in connection with the proposed Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition. Because Paramount controls 28 television stations, the transaction implicated the Communications Act's 25% foreign-ownership benchmark; the approved interests are non-voting, and the ruling permits aggregate indirect foreign equity of up to 100% subject to national-security conditions. (Spokesman.com)

Why it matters: This is a significant application of the FCC's §310(b)(4) foreign-ownership policy to a major broadcast licensee. It demonstrates considerable flexibility where voting control and influence over licensees remain insulated, potentially relevant to future broadcast financing and transaction structures.

Action: No general rule changed. For ownership work, treat this as a useful precedent—not as elimination of the 25% statutory benchmark.

2. FCC regulatory fees due next Thursday — payment must actually reach the Commission

FY 2026 regulatory fees must be received through CORES by 11:59 p.m. EDT September 24. The FCC's final fee rule became effective September 14; late payments incur the statutory 25% penalty, and delinquency can cause the Commission to withhold action on or ultimately dismiss unrelated applications. (FR Tracker)

Why it matters: This is now the most immediate universal FCC deadline for commercial broadcast clients. The current licensee is responsible for facilities held on October 1, 2025, even where a station was subsequently transferred; entities owing $1,000 or less in total FY2026 fees remain exempt. (Wiley Rein LLP)

Action: Verify client CORES accounts and payments early next week rather than relying on September 24 processing.

3. EAS cybersecurity deadline — 11 days remain, and the rule reaches the whole IP-connected program chain

The new FCC cybersecurity requirements become mandatory September 29. Covered systems include EAS equipment, STLs and remotely managed signal-chain equipment; required safeguards include strong authentication/password practices, prompt security patching and firewalls or comparable network segmentation. (SBE37)

Why it matters: For engineering purposes this can encompass automation, processors, RDS encoders, transmitters, remote controls and IP STLs, not merely the EAS encoder/decoder. Passwords using the FCC's specified approach must be at least 15 characters, non-dictionary based and not reused, although equivalent robust authentication is permitted. (Colorado Broadcasters Association)

Action: Complete and document station-by-station signal-chain/network reviews before September 29.

4. NCE translator window: October 2 database freeze is now only two weeks away

The Media Bureau's freeze associated with the first reserved-band NCE FM translator filing window begins after 11:59 p.m. ET October 2. After that point the Bureau will not accept reserved- or non-reserved-band LPFM, FM translator or FM booster minor-modification applications until the November window closes; the application snapshot date is November 17. (FCC Docs)

Why it matters: For current translator searches, October 2—not November 4—is the important engineering date. Facility changes that could improve an applicant's channel environment need to be filed before the database effectively freezes.

Action: Finish prospective NCE translator screenings and identify any necessary LPFM/translator/booster minor modifications now. Window: November 4–17; hard close 6:00 p.m. ET November 17. (FCC Docs)

5. Federal Register briefly used Chinese AI model for regulatory searches

A Federal Register website operated by the National Archives briefly deployed a search feature using Alibaba's Qwen AI model; the feature was removed after its use became public. The episode comes amid federal restrictions and national-security scrutiny of Chinese technology, although experts noted that the Federal Register itself primarily contains public information. (Reuters)

Why it matters: This is a consequential federal IT-governance issue because the Federal Register is a core publication system for legally operative agency rules, including FCC actions. The concern is less the public documents themselves than federal procurement, data handling and provenance of AI-generated regulatory search results.

Action: No change to Federal Register legal status or FCC filing procedures. For regulatory work, continue treating the published Federal Register document itself—not an AI-generated search summary—as the controlling source.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 17, 2026

 

1. FCC opens formal comment cycle on expanded political-ad LUC policy

The FCC's Media Bureau has opened MB Docket No. 26-253 for an application for review challenging the Commission's March guidance expanding lowest-unit-charge treatment to certain party-coordinated and joint-fundraising political advertising. This is particularly significant because the policy is already being litigated and broadcasters are currently inside the November 3 general-election LUC window. (TheDesk.net)

Why it matters: The Commission is now developing an administrative record on a policy that directly affects station political-ad revenue and traffic practices. The proceeding could modify, affirm or ultimately replace the March interpretation; for now, the existing operative requirements should continue to be followed.

Action: Comments/oppositions are due September 25; replies October 5. Broadcasters with substantial political advertising may want counsel or their associations to participate.

2. FCC nominee's Senate hearing scheduled for today has been postponed

The Senate Commerce Committee has officially postponed today's confirmation hearing for Danielle Thumann Severs, President Trump's nominee for the vacant Republican FCC seat. The Committee currently lists the hearing simply as "Postponed," with no replacement date announced. (Senate Commerce Committee)

Why it matters: This corrects yesterday's briefing: there will not be an FCC nomination hearing today. Until Severs is confirmed, the FCC remains at three sitting commissioners rather than moving to a 3-1 Republican majority.

Action: No filing action. Watch for the Senate Commerce Committee to announce a new hearing date.

3. Regulatory fees due one week from today

FY 2026 FCC regulatory fees must be received through CORES by 11:59 p.m. ET Thursday, September 24. Commercial AM/FM, full-power television, LPTV/Class A/TV translator and other fee-bearing facilities should now be treated as being inside the final compliance week.

Why it matters: Late payment carries the statutory 25% penalty, and an FCC delinquency can hold up or prevent processing of otherwise unrelated applications. For engineering clients with active CP, STA, assignment or modification work, that makes this more than an accounting deadline.

Action: Verify clients' CORES status and payment obligations now. For LPTV/Class A/TV translators, remember the FCC's corrected FY2026 fee is $255 per facility.

4. Senate panel advances bill restricting federal pressure on broadcasters and online platforms

The Senate Commerce Committee yesterday approved, 18-10, legislation allowing individuals to sue federal employees who coerce private companies into suppressing constitutionally protected speech. Supporters cited government interactions with both broadcasters and technology platforms under the Trump and Biden administrations; the measure specifically enters the debate surrounding FCC pressure on broadcast programming and licensing decisions. (Reuters)

Why it matters: If enacted, this could create a statutory cause of action directly relevant to disputes over FCC pressure on broadcast editorial decisions, rather than leaving those questions principally to First Amendment litigation and administrative-law review.

Action: This is not law yet. It must still pass the full Senate and House and be signed by the president; watch whether Senate leadership schedules floor consideration.

5. Federal Reserve raises rates for first time in more than three years

The Federal Reserve yesterday raised its benchmark federal-funds target by 25 basis points to 3.75%-4.00%, its first increase in more than three years, and its new projections indicate that additional tightening may follow. The decision reflects persistent inflation pressures, including the economic effects of elevated energy prices. (Reuters)

Why it matters: The significant policy signal is not yesterday's quarter-point move by itself but the Fed's indication that this may be the beginning of additional tightening. Higher short- and long-term rates increase federal debt-service expense while raising borrowing costs for businesses, property, construction and infrastructure.

Action: No regulatory action. Watch subsequent inflation data and Treasury yields for evidence that the Fed will deliver the additional increase implied by its year-end projections.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 16, 2026

 

1. NCE translator-window engineering is becoming the next major FM workload

With the Auction 114 FM minor-change freeze already in effect, attention should now shift toward the FCC's November 4–17 reserved-band NCE FM translator window. The Media Bureau's subsequent guidance confirms that applicants generally must be existing NCE FM, noncommercial AM or LPFM licensees/permittees proposing translators to rebroadcast their own stations; the associated database freeze begins October 2.

Why it matters: For consulting work, October 2 is effectively the engineering cutoff for changes to existing LPFM, FM translator and FM booster facilities that could alter the database used to prepare window applications. Channel searches being performed now should therefore be based on a database that will soon become substantially fixed.

Action: Complete prospective NCE translator channel/site screenings and any needed secondary-service minor modifications before October 2 at 11:59 p.m. ET. The translator window opens November 4 and closes November 17 at 6:00 p.m. ET.

2. FCC commissioner nomination hearing is tomorrow

The Senate Commerce Committee will hold its confirmation hearing tomorrow for Danielle Thumann Severs, President Trump's nominee for the vacant Republican seat on the FCC. If eventually confirmed, she would give Republicans three commissioners; another Commission seat remains vacant.

Why it matters: A restored Republican majority could materially affect the pace of pending broadcast ownership, infrastructure, spectrum and enforcement proceedings, including items now being advanced under Chairman Carr.

Action: Hearing begins September 17 at 10:30 a.m. ET. Watch particularly for questioning or commitments involving media ownership, broadcast licensing, equal-time enforcement and spectrum policy.

3. EAS/program-chain cybersecurity deadline is now 13 days away

Broadcasters must comply with new 47 CFR §11.35(d) by September 29. The rule requires strong password practices, prompt testing and installation of security patches, and firewalls or comparable network segmentation for EAS equipment, STL equipment and remotely managed equipment that routes, processes or inserts programming.

Why it matters: This is considerably broader than an EAS-box requirement. Depending on station architecture, automation systems, processors, RDS equipment, remote controls, transmitters and IP-connected STL equipment can fall within the affected program chain.

Action: Stations that have not already done so should inventory remotely accessible program-chain equipment and document passwords, patch status and network segmentation before September 29.

4. FY 2026 FCC regulatory fees — eight days remain

Annual FCC regulatory fees are due September 24. Commercial broadcast licensees generally remain responsible for authorizations held on October 1, 2025, including stations subsequently sold or surrendered; a licensee owing $1,000 or less in total FY2026 regulatory fees qualifies for the de minimis exemption.

Why it matters: Late payment produces an automatic 25% penalty, and FCC delinquency can interfere with processing unrelated applications. This makes what looks like an accounting matter potentially relevant to active engineering and licensing work.

Action: Clients should verify CORES obligations now rather than next week. Payment deadline is 11:59 p.m. ET September 24.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 15, 2026

1. Auction 114 FM freeze is now in effect — preferred-site coordinates matter

The Auction 114 Form 175 window opened yesterday for 132 vacant commercial FM allotments, and the accompanying freeze on commercial and NCE FM minor-change applications is now active through September 30. Auction applicants may identify specific preferred transmitter coordinates; those sites then receive protection against subsequently filed FM proposals.

Why it matters: For allocation work, this means the engineering landscape can change during the auction window. A channel/site study performed before Auction 114 preferred coordinates become available may need to be rechecked before relying on it for a later application.

Action: Do not file covered FM minor changes during the freeze. For Auction 114 work, monitor disclosed preferred-site coordinates; Form 175 closes September 30 at 6:00 p.m. ET.

2. Radio groups renew push to eliminate local radio ownership limits

Cumulus Media and Zimmer Radio yesterday urged the FCC to eliminate or substantially relax the local radio ownership limits, arguing that competition from digital audio platforms has made the existing market caps obsolete. This remains advocacy in the FCC's ownership proceeding — the Commission has not adopted a change to the local radio limits.

Why it matters: This could ultimately have substantial consequences for AM/FM transactions, ownership studies and acquisition strategy. It is particularly notable following the FCC's August action eliminating the national television ownership cap, suggesting that further broadcast-ownership deregulation remains an active Commission priority.

Action: No change to current ownership studies: continue applying the existing local radio caps until the FCC adopts and makes effective a new rule.

3. EAS cybersecurity compliance deadline is two weeks away

Broadcasters must implement the FCC's new EAS cybersecurity requirements by September 29. The requirements include stronger password controls, timely security-related firmware/software updates and firewalling or otherwise isolating EAS equipment, STLs and remotely managed equipment used to route, process or insert programming.

Why it matters: The scope is broader than the EAS encoder/decoder and can reach STL, automation, remote-control and other IP-connected program-chain equipment. For smaller AM/FM/LPTV operations in particular, older equipment exposed directly to the Internet deserves attention.

Action: Complete and document an equipment/network review before September 29. Reply comments on the FCC's additional EAS modernization proposals are also due that day.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 11, 2026

 

1. Auction 114 FM freeze starts Monday — today is the last normal business day to file

The Media Bureau's freeze on commercial and NCE FM minor-change applications begins September 14 and continues through September 30. Any covered minor-change application submitted during the window will be dismissed; Auction 114 will offer 132 vacant non-reserved FM allotments. (FCC Documentation)

Why it matters: For current FM engineering work, today is effectively the last normal filing day before a 17-day interruption. Existing FM minor changes must also protect the Auction 114 reference coordinates and, when disclosed, auction applicants' preferred-site coordinates.

Action: File any completed FM minor changes today rather than relying on Monday morning. Form 175 opens Monday at noon ET and closes September 30 at 6:00 p.m. ET.

2. FCC equal-time policy is now changing actual network programming decisions

ABC's Jimmy Kimmel says an interview with Texas Senate candidate James Talarico will be distributed online rather than aired on the ABC broadcast because of the FCC's position that daytime and late-night talk shows are not automatically exempt "bona fide news" programs under the political equal-opportunities rule. ABC's The View has likewise stopped inviting political candidates following FCC scrutiny. (Reuters)

Why it matters: The Commission's policy is no longer an abstract Washington dispute; it is affecting actual broadcast programming decisions and affiliate-carried network content during the election period. The issue is distinct from lowest-unit-charge requirements and turns on §315 equal opportunities and the bona-fide-news exemptions.

Action: Stations carrying candidate appearances outside conventional newscasts should make sure programming, traffic and counsel are identifying appearances that could trigger an equal-opportunities request. The November 3 election makes this an active compliance issue now.

3. FY 2026 regulatory-fee deadline is less than two weeks away

FCC regulatory fees for FY 2026 must be received electronically through CORES by 11:59 p.m. EDT September 24. The Media Bureau guidance specifically covers commercial AM/FM stations, FM translators and boosters, full-power TV, TV translators, LPTV and Class A television facilities. (FCC Documentation)

Why it matters: The consequence is more than the statutory 25% late penalty. The FCC can withhold action on and dismiss pending applications and other requests for benefits involving a delinquent regulatee. (FCC Documentation)

Action: This is a good point to remind commercial clients to verify their FRN/CORES access and outstanding fees rather than waiting until September 24.

4. St. George television channel substitution reaches reply-comment stage

Comments closed yesterday in MB Docket 26-195 / RM-12023, involving a proposed amendment of the TV Table of Allotments at St. George, Utah. The proposal remains a rulemaking—not an adopted channel change—and the FCC will now consider the record before deciding whether to amend §73.622(j). (FR Tracker)

Why it matters: These apparently routine channel-substitution proceedings remain worth watching because they provide current examples of how the Media Bureau is handling full-power DTV allotment changes, principal-community coverage and post-repack channel engineering.

Action: Reply comments are due September 25. No broader television filing action is required.

5. Supreme Court blocks Missouri's new congressional map for the November election

The Supreme Court of the United States yesterday blocked Missouri from using its newly redrawn congressional map in the November 3 midterms, leaving the state's previous congressional districts in place. The order followed conflicting state and federal court rulings and is immediately consequential because Republicans hold only a narrow House majority. (Reuters)

Why it matters: This is more consequential than routine campaign coverage: it determines the actual congressional districts used in November and could affect control of the House. The Court's emergency order did not resolve the broader merits of partisan redistricting.

Action: No public compliance action. For election planning, treat Missouri's prior congressional map as controlling for November 3 unless the Court issues a further order.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 4, 2026

1. Political lowest-unit-charge window opens today — but the FCC rule is in Supreme Court limbo

The **60-day lowest-unit-charge (LUC) window for the November 3 general election begins today, September 4**. The FCC's March guidance would have extended LUC treatment beyond candidates and their authorized committees to certain party-coordinated and joint-fundraising advertising, but the Fourth Circuit **vacated that expansion on August 25**; Republican congressional committees have now asked the Supreme Court of the United States for an emergency stay.

**Why it matters:** Until the Supreme Court changes the situation, stations should **not assume that party committees or joint fundraising committees automatically qualify for LUC** merely because an advertisement is coordinated with a candidate. Candidate and authorized-campaign-committee purchases remain entitled to LUC under §315(b). This is a genuinely fluid compliance issue rather than a settled FCC policy. 

**Action:** Effective **today**, review political-ad rate treatment carefully and watch for Supreme Court action in *NRCC v. Brown*, No. 26A274. 

2. FCC–Disney fight escalates over extraordinary early reviews of eight ABC licenses

The Federal Communications Commission asked a federal court yesterday to dismiss [Disney's challenge to the FCC's early review of eight ABC-owned television licenses]

**Why it matters:** The case potentially reaches well beyond ABC. It tests how far the Commission may use the **broadcast-license review process to investigate a licensee before its normal renewal cycle**, with obvious implications for the traditional separation between FCC licensing authority and protected programming/editorial decisions. Disney characterizes the reviews as retaliation; the FCC says it is investigating allegations of unlawful discrimination. 

**Action:** No broadcaster filing is presently required. A district-court hearing is scheduled for **October 6**, and the FCC has agreed to provide at least 48 hours' notice before referring the ABC licenses for a hearing.

3. FCC opens formal review of Spanish Broadcasting System restructuring and foreign ownership

The Media Bureau has opened **MB Docket No. 26-240** covering the post-bankruptcy transfer of the license subsidiaries of Spanish Broadcasting System. SBS is also seeking a §310(b)(4) declaratory ruling allowing aggregate foreign equity and/or voting interests to exceed the normal **25% statutory benchmark**. 

**Why it matters:** This is a useful real-world test of the FCC's **January 2026 revised foreign-ownership framework for broadcasters**. The proceeding involves multiple major-market radio facilities, including WCMQ-FM Hialeah and WXDJ(FM), and may provide practical precedent for future broadcast ownership restructurings involving foreign capital. 

**Action:** **Petitions to deny: October 2; oppositions: October 19; replies: October 26.** The proceeding is permit-but-disclose. [FCC Public Notice — DA 26-933]

4. FCC systems maintenance starts tonight — avoid weekend-dependent filings

The FCC is warning that its electronic systems will undergo **scheduled maintenance beginning tonight, Friday September 4 at 6:00 p.m. ET, continuing through Sunday September 6 at 5:00 p.m. ET**. The Commission warns users to expect temporary service disruptions and periods of reduced availability.

**Why it matters:** For engineering practice this is the kind of mundane notice that can become consequential if an LMS, ASR, CORES or other Commission-system transaction is left for the weekend. It is particularly worth noting with the **Auction 114 FM freeze only ten days away** and regulatory-fee activity underway.

**Action:** Complete any time-sensitive FCC database work **before 6:00 p.m. ET today** where practical. Separately, remember that the Auction 114 commercial/NCE FM minor-change freeze starts **September 14**, and FY2026 regulatory fees are due **September 24**.

5. Administration takes new mail-ballot restrictions directly to Supreme Court

The Trump administration asked the Supreme Court yesterday to permit enforcement of a new United States Postal Service rule tightening requirements for mail ballots ahead of the **November 3 midterm election**. The rule would require states to supply voter-specific lists and use approved ballot-mail envelopes with unique barcodes; USPS could refuse ballots that do not comply. A federal judge temporarily blocked the rule August 27, finding that it likely intrudes on states' constitutional election authority and that compliance on the compressed timetable may be impracticable.

**Why it matters:** This is potentially consequential election administration rather than ordinary campaign politics. The administration argues the standards protect against fraud; the challenging states and voting-rights groups contend they could prevent otherwise legitimate ballots from being delivered. The Supreme Court has **not yet resolved the merits**, so the ultimate rules for November remain unsettled.

**Action:** No individual action at present, but watch for rapid Supreme Court action because election-mail preparation is already underway.

FCC & U.S. Policy Briefing — September 3, 2026

 

1. FCC opens CORES for FY 2026 regulatory fees — September 24 deadline

The FCC has opened CORES for FY 2026 regulatory-fee payments. Commercial AM/FM, FM translators and boosters, full-power TV, LPTV and Class A facilities are among the media services covered; payment must be completed electronically by 11:59 p.m. EDT September 24. 

Why it matters: A late payment triggers an immediate 25% statutory penalty, and delinquency can cause the FCC to withhold action on or dismiss pending applications. The licensee or permit holder on the payment due date bears the obligation even where an assignment occurred after October 1, 2025. 

Action: Have commercial broadcast clients verify their CORES/FRN access and fee obligations now; don't leave electronic payment troubleshooting until September 24.

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2. Auction 114 FM freeze begins September 14 — file pending minor changes beforehand

The Media Bureau's Auction 114 FM minor-change freeze begins September 14 when the Form 175 window opens. During September 14–30, the FCC will not accept commercial or NCE FM minor-change applications; applications submitted during the freeze will be dismissed. Auction 114 contains 132 vacant non-reserved FM allotments. 

Why it matters: This directly affects ordinary FM engineering work. Pending minor-change proposals should also be checked for protection of the Auction 114 allotment reference coordinates and, once disclosed, protected preferred-site coordinates.

Action: File ready FM minor changes before September 14. Auction applicants have until 6:00 p.m. ET September 30 to submit Form 175; bidding begins February 2, 2027. 

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3. EAS modernization: cybersecurity work and September 29 reply-comment deadline

The FCC's EAS modernization proceeding remains one of the more consequential technical compliance matters for broadcasters this month. The June order addresses cybersecurity safeguards for EAS and related networked broadcast equipment, while the accompanying Further Notice continues consideration of additional EAS/WEA changes; reply comments are due September 29 in PS Dockets 25-224, 15-94 and 15-91.

Why it matters: EAS is increasingly an IT/network-security issue as well as a Part 11 issue. Password management, software/firmware maintenance and isolation of Internet-accessible equipment deserve engineering review rather than being left solely to station administrative staff.

Action: Put September 29 on the engineering/compliance calendar and review EAS network exposure, credentials and update practices.

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4. FCC's 2026 broadcast EEO audit responses are due October 20

The Enforcement Bureau has selected roughly 5% of radio and television stations for its 2026 random EEO audits. Selected stations must upload the principal audit response to their FCC-hosted online public inspection files by October 20, 2026; certain privacy-sensitive responses are instead submitted directly to the Enforcement Bureau by email. 

Why it matters: This is easy for engineering-oriented clients to overlook because it is not an LMS filing. Stations should verify whether any facility in their ownership group or associated employment unit appears on the audit list.

Action: Check client call signs against the FCC's August 21 audit list now. Affected stations have about seven weeks remaining to assemble the required records.

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5. Federal shutdown avoided: stopgap funding signed through December 11

President Trump signed H.R. 6500, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027, on September 2. It funds federal agencies through December 11, 2026, eliminating the immediate October 1 shutdown risk while Congress continues work on the FY 2027 appropriations bills. 

Why it matters: For broadcast practitioners, this materially reduces the near-term risk of disruption to FCC application processing, Media Bureau/OET work, FAA and other federal regulatory functions during an already busy fall filing period.

Action: No immediate filing action. The next federal-funding pressure point is December 11, which is worth keeping in view for filings or federal approvals expected late in the year.