Local Community Radio Act Of 2009

Floor Speech

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Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1147, the Local Community Radio Act of 2009.

I appreciate the leadership of Congressman Lee Terry of Nebraska on this important issue.

Passage of this bipartisan legislation is vital to expanding the availability of noncommercial, low-power--LPFM--radio stations to towns and cities across our country. This legislation repeals certain restrictions which limit broadcast capabilities for low-power FM stations. Expanding LPFM licenses will make owning a radio station possible for churches, synagogues, schools, emergency responders, and other community groups that best understand the needs of their local communities.

These stations give civic, clergy, and community leaders a forum to discuss local issues and to provide essential emergency services during times of crisis. Hundreds of churches and ministries already rely on LPFM stations to get their messages out; but, unfortunately, service is currently limited only to rural areas and is frequently limited to property lines.

I urge Members to pass H.R. 1147, which will move to expand low-power FM radio for churches, synagogues, schools, community groups, and emergency responders in the United States.

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