For broadcast stations, the 2023 Third Quarter Issues/Programs List Advisory is an important date to mark. The next Quarterly Issues/Programs List (known as “Quarterly List”) needs to be placed in stations’ Public Inspection Files by October 10, 2023. This list will reflect information pertinent to the months of July, August, and September 2023.
This directive comes from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC requires all broadcast stations to air a ‘reasonable amount’ of programming that responds to the significant needs, problems, and issues of their community. Key to this mandate is that these significant issues are determined by the station themselves.
This presents an important responsibility for broadcast stations in 2023. Their role in discerning significant community needs, and subsequently addressing these through their programming, will directly impact the information placed in the Quarterly List.
It remains critical for these discussions and disclosures to align with legal requirements. Lawyers working with broadcast stations must understand the complexities of the related law and FCC guidelines for the upcoming cycle.
For a complete understanding of this new advisory and its practical implications, interested readers can find further information here.
By understanding the obligations set by the FCC, and by examining the implications of this directive, stakeholders can better prepare for their responsibilities leading up to October 10, 2023.