Fee for all, FY2007

During FY 2006, broadcasters were helping reduce the deficit via their license fees to the tune of 10M, according to attorney Peter Gutmann of Womble Carlyle Sandridge and Rice. With that burden removed for FY 2007, some license fees actually went down a bit, although a few increased slightly. Overall, the total being collected is 2.84% less than during the previous year. "There are no significant changes in the methodology and procedures for assessment and payment of the 2007 regulatory fees, as compared to the past several years," said Gutmann in a letter to clients. "Television fees are still assessed according to market size, and radio fees are based upon facility attributes and populations served. All fees are based upon facilities authorized as of October 1, 2006." The payment deadline has not been not been set yet, but Gutmann expects the usual mid-September due date.