FCC considering changes to TIS rules
Travelers Information Stations or TIS is a licensed low power AM radio service that permits local governments to place stations near major transportation infrastructure to broadcast non-commercial information that is essential to the traveling public. TIS stations can only be licensed to local governments and park districts defined in Part 90 of the FCC rules. TIS can not be licensed to any other public or private sector organiztion or individual who does not meet the specific Part 90 local government requirements.
Various public safety organizations have made some proposals that would result in the first major changes in the TIS service since its inception in 1977.
Proposals include expansion of the content on TIS broadcasts to include among other things, weather broadcasts, terror warnings, AMBER alerts and alternative phone numbers in the event of a 9-1-1 system failure.
In addition, several technical proposals including the output power and transmitter location as well as the ability to operate a multi-transmitter "ribbon" system are being inquired in this NPRM. A name change for the service is also being proposed.
Comments in PS Docket 09-19 are due 30 days from publication in the Federal Register. Replies in 45 days.
