Do not take the FCC’s EAS rules lightly. The FCC has proposed a $369, 190 fine to a Texas station for failing to participate in three Nationwide EAS tests. Moreover, the FCC fined the station for failing to file reports with its EAS Test Reporting System (ETRS) system. In reviewing the station’s filings and responses, the FCC found the station's responses to be misleading.
The station argued that it made a good faith effort to comply with the rules. It noted that its staff did not know how to receive and transmit the EAS test signal and simulated its own EAS test. The FCC found that the station’s ignorance of the law was no excuse.
This is an important decision. It shows that the FCC is serious about compliance with its EAS rules. Stations are urged to make sure they are in compliance with all FCC EAS rules.
You can see the FCC’s proposed fine here.