[co-author: David Silverman*]
Licensees of commercial and non-commercial full-power television, Class A television, low power television, AM radio, and FM radio stations are usually required to file biennial ownership reports with the Commission in odd-numbered years. The next filing window for biennial ownership reports was scheduled to open on October 2, 2025, with reports due by December 1, 2025. However, in connection with the Commission's proceeding—Delete, Delete, Delete, GN Docket No. 25-133—the Commission has decided to waive the biennial ownership report filing requirement for a period of 18 months and has set a new filing deadline of June 1, 2027, or until further notice, whichever comes first. The Commission agreed with commenters who argued that the biennial ownership report filing requirement is a costly and burdensome requirement without sufficient public benefit. See here.
This decision does not pause the requirement for broadcasters to file ownership reports in connection with other instances required by Section 73.3615 of the Commission's rules, such as after receiving an original construction permit, with an application for a station license, and after the consummation of authorized assignments or transfers of control of permits and licenses.
*David Silverman is a contract attorney and former partner of DWT. Broadcast paralegal Sharon Mathis also contributed to this advisory.
[View source.]
