Earlier this year, the FCC voted to approve “geocasting” or “zonecasting” on booster stations. This decision allows booster stations to broadcast original content that is different from content that is being broadcast on a primary station. The FCC has now teed up the issue and proposed adopting final rules at its November meeting.
This was an extremely contentious proceeding. While the Commission approved the use of such boosters, it proposed significant limitations on the content that could be broadcast on booster stations. According to the FCC:
“Stations choosing to use this technology might, for up to three minutes each hour, air hyper-local news and weather reports or advertisements from small local businesses. Since April 2024, the Commission has permitted broadcasters to apply for program originating boosters on an experimental basis. The Second Report and Order adopts rules and procedures that make it possible for program originating boosters to operate on a more permanent basis.”
In addition, the FCC will enact additional limitations in its decision:
Establishes procedures for broadcasters to notify the Commission of program originating booster operation.
Establishes procedures to predict and address potential interference for booster station applications prior to building.
Adopts a 25-booster station cap on the number of program originating boosters a single station may operate.
Creates notification requirements so that other broadcasters and emergency alert participants will be aware of a booster’s program origination to protect the Emergency Alert System.
Updates political advertising rules for program originating boosters.
Adopts a public interest certification to serve as a regular reminder to use program origination equitably as an enhancement to reach listeners in a specific zone rather than to exclude those in another.
This is an important issue for all radio stations. You can access the FCC proposed decision here.