In establishing LPFM, the FCC significantly relaxed its interference standards, meaning increased interference with existing radio services and a devaluation of the investments of current license holders. There is no question that eliminating the third adjacent channel safeguard, as the Commission has done, will lead to increased interference. Inexpensive and older radios are particularly vulnerable to interference, meaning the proposal could have the adverse effect of denying many low income and elderly listeners clear reception of their favorite stations.
Broadcasters are justifiably concerned that the rules jeopardize the conversion to digital radio.
At a minimum, adding a large number of low power stations to the already congested FM band will make the transition to digital more problematic. The FCC lacks the resources to properly regulate LPFM and manage inevitable conflicts between services. Also of concern, the FCC rules specifically make former unlicensed pirate radio operators eligible for LPFM licenses, thus re-enforcing their unlawful behavior and encouraging new unauthorized broadcasters. Because the Commission's rules are inconsistent with sound spectrum management, H.R. 3439 was drafted to prevent the FCC from implementing its rules authorizing new LPFM stations. The bill also revokes any LPFM licenses that might be issued by the time of enactment of the measure.