FCC Extends Deadline To March 1, 2010, For Comments In Wireless Mic Licensing Proceeding

The Federal Communications Commission has extended the deadline for public comments relating to proposed changes in wireless microphone licensing rules. The comment period, which would have expired on February 22, now closes on March 1, 2010. The Commission determined that the public interest would be served by a brief extension of time in which to file comments, due to the extensive adverse weather conditions that affected the Washington, D.C. area and surrounding regions in recent weeks. "The complex issues raised in this proceeding have far-reaching ramifications for the entire wireless microphone community, many of whom do not normally follow Commission activities," said Mark Brunner, Senior Director, Global Brand Management at Shure Incorporated. "The extension gives wireless microphone users a greater opportunity to develop a complete and meaningful record for the Commission's consideration." The original 30-day comment period was the minimum time required under the Communications Act of 1996. The comment period begins when an FCC action is published in the Federal Register, but may be extended under special circumstances. The FCC was forced to suspend operations due to adverse weather conditions, closing early on Friday, February 5, and remaining closed Monday, February 8, through Thursday, February 11, 2010.