News Releases

RTNDA Cites News Emergencies and Urges FCC to Delay Plan for Unlicensed Devices in Broadcast Spectrum

NEWS RELEASE

CONTACT:  Stacey Staniak, 202-467-5214 or staceys@rtnda.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  October 27, 2008

RTNDA Cites News Emergencies and Urges FCC to Delay
Plan for Unlicensed Devices in Broadcast Spectrum

WASHINGTON -- The Radio-Television News Directors Association today petitioned the Federal Communications Commission to postpone plans to open the broadcast spectrum to unlicensed wireless devices and to conduct comprehensive tests on interference with licensed wireless microphones used for newsgathering. Under the current proposal, the FCC would provide access to the broadcast spectrum for a host of unlicensed devices that would use the “white spaces” in the broadcast television band. The FCC is scheduled to vote on the proposal on Nov. 4.

“The most stringent testing standards must be placed on these unlicensed devices before adopting rules permitting their use,” wrote RTNDA President Barbara Cochran.“Anything less will not safeguard licensed uses of this spectrum to serve the public interest.”

Electronic journalists use licensed wireless microphones to cover breaking news events, including situations that affect the health and safety of their communities.The proposed plan addresses wireless microphone usage in fixed locations, but does not protect street reporters who are covering live, newsworthy events.

“As ‘firstinformers’ in public emergencies, RTNDA’s members play a critical role in disseminating important information,” Cochran wrote. “Accurate and timely reporting saves lives. The Commission should not compromise electronic journalists’ ability to inform the public by subjecting licensed equipment to interference from unlicensed devices.”

To read the complete letter, click here.

RTNDA is the world’s largest professional organization devoted exclusively to electronic journalism. RTNDA represents local and network news professionals in broadcasting, cable and other electronic media in more than 20 countries.

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