Legislation that will expand Low Power FM has been approved by the House Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet. It now moves to the full House and Subcommittee. The Local Community Radio Act, introduced by Congress members Mike Doyle and Lee Terry, would alter a law passed in 2000 which limited Low Power FM to rural parts of the country. These stations are non-commercial 100-watt radio service that reaches a radius of 3 to 7 miles.

The National Federation of Community Broadcasters (NFCB) has been an ongoing supporter of and advocate for LPFM. Approximately 25% of NFCB's 250 members are LPFM stations. NFCB believes there is a need for more communities to have their own LPFM. NFCB President/CEO Carol Pierson describes NFCB's involvement in LPFM as "consistent with our values of localism, diversity, and public service."

"I am really delighted to see this bill make it through a key milestone on its way to becoming law," said Cheryl A. Leanza, NFCB Policy Advisor. "Our legislative champions, Congressman Mike Doyle and Lee Terry have been indefatigable in their support for this important media justice issue." (10-15-09)