Washington, D.C.? On Thursday, October 8, the Local Community Radio Act of 2009 passed out of House Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet in a sweeping 15 to 1 vote. The Act would clear the way for hundreds of Low Power FM (LPFM) broadcasters in American towns and communities ? stations that can help fill the void in local programming created by a consolidated commercial radio marketplace.

?Future of Music Coalition is very pleased that policymakers have recognized the fundamental role Low Power FM can play in local communities,? said Michael Bracy, Policy Director for Future of Music Coalition. ?LPFM is vital to musicians around the country, who rely on local radio as a way to reach audiences. It can also help undo the tremendous damage to localism as a result of rampant consolidation in the commercial broadcast industry. There?s no good reason not to allow more LPFM in more American towns and cities. Quality local radio is too important a resource to hold back.? read more