The agency is heightening enforcement against unauthorized transmissions on AM and FM frequencies.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently announced proposed fines against seven pirate radio operators for operating six pirate radio stations in the Boston area under the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement Act (PIRATE Act). The penalties, totaling $857,775, are the result of investigations conducted by the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau. The PIRATE Act, enacted by Congress in 2020, grants the FCC enhanced enforcement capabilities, increases penalties for illegal broadcasting, and mandates enforcement sweeps.
The FCC stated, “Pirate radio is an unauthorized transmission of radio signals on the frequencies in or adjacent to the FM and AM radio bands. Pirate radio operations pose public safety risks, including causing harmful interference to licensed radio stations which transmit public safety emergency alert messages.“
The agency added, “Operating a pirate radio station is illegal under the Communications Act of 1934 and subject to the FCC’s enhanced enforcement capabilities enacted by Congress in the PIRATE Act in 2020. Under the PIRATE Act, the FCC can fine pirate radio operators up to $119,555 per day and a maximum of $2,391,097, as adjusted for inflation.“
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Chair Jessica Rosenworcel to receive God’s wisdom as she heads the FCC.
- For discernment for FCC commissioners as they seek to enforce the PIRATE Act.
Sources: Federal Communications Commission
