Lobbying on AM Revitalization Focused on FM Translator Filing Window, Oxenford Says

Lobbying on the FCC draft AM revitalization order is aimed at convincing commissioners to support an AM-window for FM translator applications, Wilkinson Barker broadcast attorney David Oxenford said in a blog post Wednesday. AM operators see the translator window as “the one sure way to help preserve AM operations for the foreseeable future,” Oxenford said. Instead of the window, the draft order proposed to allow AM licensees to buy distant translators and move them, which had spurred much broadcaster lobbying trying to get the agency to allow an AM-only window (see 1508310046). “The fear of many AM stations is that the big market AM stations would be able to pay more for the existing translators that might be for sale, and most existing translators will be moved to big markets, while operators in small markets won’t get any relief,” Oxenford said. “Until the decision has been voted on, there certainly will be continued attempts to convince the Commissioners how to vote on what many AM broadcasters consider to be a crucial proposal.”