The FCC approved today a plan to hold a new filing window for FM translators in the reserved, non-commercial portion of the FM band (88.1 to 91.9).

The window will be open for other noncommercial FMs, LPFMs and noncommercial licensed AM stations to obtain a noncommercial translator. The commission will next seek a comment period on eligibility requirements and application limits to prevent gamesmanship and ensure fair access to licenses while being consistent with the mandates created by the Local Community Radio Act of 2010.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said, “Today, we take steps to launch the first-ever filing window for FM translator stations in the band reserved for noncommercial radio service. The FM translator service was created over 50 years ago, but this window will mark the first opportunity for noncommercial FM, LPFM, and AM stations to obtain new FM translator stations. This will particularly benefit educational broadcasters, to allow them to extend the programming their stations provide to the public and reach remote, rural, and underserved communities. Today we seek comment on how to tailor this upcoming window. We explore eligibility requirements and application limits to prevent gamesmanship and preserve the airwaves for future local and community focused services. I look forward to seeing the positive results of this unique window and the continued growth of noncommercial service in the FM band.”