Updating FCC Registration Numbers (FRN) Database: New Fines Do Not Apply to Broadcasting - But You Still Need to Update FRN Database
- The New York State Broadcasters Association
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Every station has one or more FCC Registration Number (FRN). There will be an FRN for the broadcast license and underlying licenses (ENG) as well as for each owner. FRN numbers for owners are a necessary part of the FCC’s ownership report and database. These FRN numbers appear in the FCC’s CORES database. Many stations do not update the FRN database when changes are made to ownership or facilities. Stations are supposed to check the accuracy of their FRN numbers and make any necessary changes. Your engineer and/or lawyer knows all about the FRN numbers.
Last week, the FCC published an earlier decision concerning Robocalls and the need to update the Robocall database. Unfortunately, language in the decision appeared to require all FCC licensees (including broadcasters) with an FRN to update their FRN information within 10 days or face fines of up to $1,000 per day of violation. This sent all licensees scrambling.
Last Friday, the FCC issued a Public Notice stating that the increased fine of $1000 per day of violation applied only to the Robocall Mitigation Database (RMD) and robocalls, not other licensees.
“These forfeiture changes only apply to violations related to filings in the RMD and not CORES information for non-RMD filers.....
The Robocall Mitigation Database Report and Order did not address or change any forfeiture amounts that may be associated with failures to update the CORES information by nonRMD filers.”
Nonetheless, while the new fines do not apply to broadcasters, there is still an underlying obligation to update and accurately report the information relating to your FRN number. The failure to update the database can result in a penalty. It may be worth it to have your engineer and/or lawyer double check your FRN number in the database. Moreover, there is always an obligation for a station to maintain accurate records.
You can see the FCC’s latest Notice here.
An excellent memo prepared by noted FCC attorney Scott Flick can be found here.
You can access the FRN/CORES portal here.
