FCC Releases Channel Sharing Recon Order
The FCC modified channel sharing rules to allow broadcasters to sign channel sharing agreements (CSAs) after the TV incentive auction and determine the length of their own sharing agreements, as expected (see 1504290041), in a First Order on Reconsideration released…
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Friday. Along with the order, the FCC released a companion NPRM tentatively concluding that channel sharing by full power and Class A stations should be allowed “outside the incentive auction context,” the order said. That would allow “second generation” agreements, in which parties to an auction-related channel sharing deal that has expired can make new deals. “By providing greater flexibility and certainty regarding CSAs, our objective is to encourage voluntary participation by broadcasters in the incentive auction,” the order said. “The new Rules will greatly increase the feasibility of broadcasters entering into sharing arrangements and increase the likelihood of a successful auction,” said Expanded Opportunities for Broadcasters Executive Director Preston Padden in an email.