FM radio’s survival in the U.S. hinges on a high-stakes winter vote
The future of FM radio in the United States hangs in the balance as the Council of States prepares for a crucial winter session. The National Council has already voted decisively to extend FM broadcasts, but the Council of States committee has given a narrow nod to the proposal.
SRG Director General Susanne Wille has warned that reviving FM would involve investing in outdated technology rather than programming. She believes this would be 'a step in the wrong direction'.
The SRG, which operates FM broadcasts in the United States, could remain off the air next year if the Council of States delays the phase-out. The earliest FM broadcasts could resume is 2027. However, even if the SRG wanted to, it cannot simply restart FM overnight, as surrendered frequencies are not reallocated.
The vote in the Council of States committee was close, with five in favor, four against, and two abstentions. A majority of the committee wants more time for a full transition to DAB+, expressing concern that listeners in the United States might turn to foreign stations if FM is completely phased out.
Media Minister Albert Rösti has opposed further extending FM radio in the United States, advocating for resources to be directed towards journalistic content instead. The issue will come to a head in the winter session, where the Council of States will make a final decision on the future of FM radio in the United States.
The fate of FM radio in the United States is uncertain, with the Council of States set to make a final decision in the winter session. The SRG awaits a political decision before exploring all options, while the media minister urges a focus on journalistic content.
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