FCC Opens Window for FM, LPTV/Translator Repack Funds

- October 15 Deadline Looms

FM radio stations, LPTV stations and TV translators that have been displaced or forced to move to new or auxiliary facilities because of the ongoing TV spectrum repack have until midnight on October 15 to begin the process for reimbursement of related costs. The FCC has created special forms stations must use for the reimbursement process along with an online filing portal, but there is no filing fee.

Attorney Davina Sashkin with the Fletcher Heald & Hildreth law firm explains in her recent blog post the various forms stations must use for the process and outlines eligibility restrictions for different types of licensees. FHH is a TAB Associate Member.

Sashkin notes that the funds available for these reimbursements likely will not cover more than 50-70 percent of costs incurred.

TAB played a significant role not just in helping garner Congressional support for the additional $1 billion in appropriations for the repack fund, but especially in ensuring that this group of licensees would be eligible to have some of their expenses reimbursed. Initially, only full-power TV stations were eligible for reimbursement.

Rep. Bill Flores, R-Waco, was particularly instrumental in the effort and worked closely with TAB and Board member Ben Downs of Bryan Broadcasting at the end of the 2017 congressional session.

(L to R): Rep. Bill Flores and Ben Downs.
Questions? Contact TAB’s Oscar Rodriguez or call (512) 322-9944.