PBS Stations May Cash In On FCC Reverse Auction

Public television broadcasters in Michigan may opt to go dark, taking advantage of a Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) reverse auction.

Michigan State University is among them and will make a decision in the coming week, which could impact the future of their PBS television affiliate, WKAR-TV.

University President Lou Anna Simon has expressed interest in participating in the reverse auction, in which their television license is sold back to the FCC leaving the frequency available for cellular use.

MSU could get as much as $200 million by surrendering its license.
Other schools, such as Delta College and Central Michigan University are also considering the option.

Television broadcasters have until January 12th to make a final decision.