Cantwell Moves to Open Airwaves for Community-Based Broadcasting

With Cantwell’s Bill, Local Content and Community Information Could Broadcast Over Scarce Airwaves

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) today introduced bipartisan legislation that would open up the airwaves to additional community-based broadcasting. The “Local Community Radio Act of 2009” would open up the possibility for dozens of new community radio stations to broadcast in Washington state. Senators McCain, Leahy, Durbin, Feingold, and Schumer have signed on as original co-sponsors.

“Low power FM stations can provide communities with a wide range of viewpoints, localized community information, and alternative content,” said Cantwell. “As media consolidation becomes more prevalent, these stations can increase the number of independent and minority-owned stations, and provide listeners with diverse perspectives.”

Low power FM radio stations provide community groups – who might be otherwise unable to obtain expensive full-power radio station licenses – space on a very scarce FM broadcast spectrum. With a maximum broadcast range of about 3.5 miles, community groups can provide listeners with localized content and an alternative broadcast outlet.