FCC Releases Initial Allocation Public Notice
On October 16, 2017, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released a public notice announcing the initial allocation of the TV Broadcaster Relocation Fund for eligible broadcasters and MVPDs. The initial allocation represents $1 billion of $1.75 billion set aside to reimburse eligible entities for the costs associated with the repack. Commercial stations and MVPDs initially will receive approximately fifty-two percent (52%) of current estimated and verified costs while NCE stations will receive approximately sixty-two percent (62%). The FCC will monitor the draw-down of funds and will release additional fund allocations when needed. The Commission encourages stations to submit cost documentation as they incur expenses to help the agency track the need for additional funds.
Subsequent to the release of the public notice, the FCC emailed a letter to the contact person identified in each station’s Schedule 399. This letter details the agency's review of the funds requested in the Schedule 399. To the extent that the Commission revised the amounts requested, an explanation was provided in this letter. The station’s initial allocation is based on the “verified” or revised amount of funds requested, which excludes any upgrades not eligible for reimbursement.
The Commission has added the allocation amount into each station’s financial portal in CORES II. The information is viewable by authorized agents listed on the Form 1876 and any other individual granted financial permission for the station. To view this information, log in to CORES II here using your FCC Username (email/password). Click on “Manage Existing FRNS,” then click “Auction Payments.” If your username is associated with multiple FRNs, choose the FRN associated with the station whose funds you want to view, then click “view payment details.” The next screen will list the initial allocation. Using this financial portal, you will be able to track the status of reimbursement requests.
If you have any questions about your allocation or how to submit a reimbursement request, please feel free to contact us.
