The voluntary limited use of FM booster stations to originate content — the lynchpin to GeoBroadcast Services’ “ZoneCasting” technology — is days away from being fully allowed, thanks to the publication of the FCC’s Second Report and Order on Consideration in the Federal Government’s publication of record.
The Federal Register published the language of that Booster Second R&O on December 13; the Media Bureau didn’t announce this until Monday (12/23).
As is the case with all R&Os, this makes the new rule the law, and January 13, 2025 is the effective date for the new rules. On that date, GBS can effectively move ahead with new uses for ZoneCasting, a technology that brings hyperlocal FM radio services to commercially licensed stations capable of doing so.
Specifically, ZoneCasting rules concerning compliance with emergency alert system requirements, permissible service parameters, licensing requirements, and political programming are taking effect.
Changes to rules associated with new or modified information collection requirements that require approval by the Office of Management and Budget under the Paperwork Reduction Act will become effective on the date specified in a notice published at a later date in the Federal Register announcing such approval. The Media Bureau will release a Public Notice at that time announcing the effective date of the remaining rule change.
— RBR+TVBR Washington Bureau
