Yes, it is permissible for an LPFM (Low Power FM) station to broadcast “syndicated” programming. LPFM stations have the flexibility to air syndicated content, which refers to programs that are produced by third-party content providers and distributed to multiple stations for broadcasting. However, LPFM stations need to ensure that the syndicated programming aligns with the station’s non-commercial and educational nature, adheres to FCC regulations, and doesn’t compromise the station’s local programming requirements. Additionally, LPFM stations should maintain records of their programming content for compliance purposes.
Yes, it is permissible for an LPFM (Low Power FM) station to broadcast “syndicated” programming. LPFM stations have the flexibility to air syndicated content, which refers to programs that are produced by third-party content providers and distributed to multiple stations for broadcasting. However, LPFM stations need to ensure that the syndicated programming aligns with the station’s non-commercial and educational nature, adheres to FCC regulations, and doesn’t compromise the station’s local programming requirements. Additionally, LPFM stations should maintain records of their programming content for compliance purposes.
It’s essential to ensure that the carried programming on an LPFM (Low Power FM) station is “non-comm friendly.” This means avoiding content from commercial programming sources unless you remove all commercial announcements and references to commercial sponsors, which might be embedded within the programming itself, not just in designated commercial breaks. Carrying commercial syndicated programming might not be feasible due to the higher rates demanded by program producers, which most LPFM stations typically can’t afford. As commercials are prohibited on NCE (LPFM) stations, it’s impractical to engage in “barter” agreements involving national commercials in exchange for program carriage.
It’s also important to be cautious about programming or network offerings where the station would be compensated for broadcasting a program. For instance, while full-service NCE stations can legally receive compensation from networks like Immaculate Heart Radio (IHR) for carrying Relevant Radio and sharing in “pledge drive” revenue, LPFM stations might be limited by §73.860(e), a rule unique to LPFM, prohibiting certain operating agreements with full-service stations. Exploring alternatives like EWTN for Catholic programming might be a safer option.
While a few LPFM stations from the 2013 filing window are committed to carrying a minimum of 8 hours of local programming per day due to pledges made during the application process, stations not bound by such pledges have more flexibility in their programming choices, as long as they adhere to other FCC regulations.