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The FCC voted at its July meeting to move forward in hopes of licensing new stations next summer. It said it would resume authorizing translator stations, which repeat the signal of full-power stations, in small and rural markets but not in major cities because there is already very little spectrum in those areas for low-power stations.

“To make best use of the limited FM spectrum remaining in these more-populous communities, we also urge the Commission to ensure that licenses are awarded to truly local churches, nonprofit organizations, local governments and schools,” the lawmakers wrote.

“These groups are ready to use local programming to serve the public, connect their communities and enrich cultural life.”