Online Public Files for Radio Stations?

In 2012, when the FCC adopted an online public file requirement for TV stations, it strongly hinted that the same rule would come to radio, but that it wanted to “test” things first on TV. Apparently, the FCC thinks the “test” period is over. It has asked for comments on whether a rulemaking should be initiated on radio online public files.

We found the FCC’s public notice announcing this matter a bit peculiar. First, the radio online public file question was a sub-title to the main focus of the public notice, which asked whether cable and satellite providers should have to place their public files online. Second, while the text of the public notice did ask whether the FCC should initiate a rulemaking on radio online public files, it also asked for comment on “an appropriate time frame for such a requirement.” Seems to us that makes a presumption of sorts that a radio online public file requirement is coming. And if that’s the case, then why ask whether a rulemaking should be initiated in the first place?

While we’re scratching our heads, the deadline for comments is August 28, 2014.