A long-running talk and religious format station in Chattanooga, Tenn., is facing possible license revocation after decades on the air. The FCC has issued a formal Order to Pay or to Show Cause to Bible Talk Chattanooga (WJOC-AM) licensee Sarah M. Fryar, citing a failure to pay regulatory fees going back to 2016.
According to the Commission, Fryar owes a total of $16,752.12 in delinquent fees for fiscal years 2016 through 2024. The amount includes not only the base regulatory fees but also accumulated interest, penalties, and administrative costs. The FCC’s records show no sufficient payment or response, prompting the agency to initiate proceedings that could result in the station losing its license.
Fryar acquired the station in 1993 from Chattanooga Lookouts broadcaster Larry Ward, shifting it from Sports Talk to Christian programming.
The order gives Fryar 60 calendar days from May 29 to either settle the debt in full or present documented evidence showing why payment should be waived or deferred.
The FCC has already transferred the debt to the U.S. Department of Treasury for collection and then recalled it. A $7,644.29 overpayment on record may be applied to the outstanding debt if Fryar submits a written request with her FRN to the Commission.
If no action is taken within the deadline, the FCC may revoke the WJOC license without a hearing unless Fryar raises a substantial and material question of fact.
