Bush Administration’s fiscal year 2002 budget proposal would increase funds for FCC, but White House’s long term strategy is to level off agency’s spending over the next 4 years. According to govt. budget details released Mon., Bush would increase FCC’s FY 2002 budget to $248.5 million from current $230 million. Total proposed outlays, or “amount the [FCC] actually spends in a given fiscal year,” would increase to $320 million from $301 million. Spending in FY 2003 and 2004 would drop to $302 million, then increase by $1 million in FY 2005 and FY 2006, respectively, under plan.
KAME-TV Reno faces $50,000 fine for repeated violations of ad limits in children’s TV, FCC said in notice of apparent liability. Station admitted violating limits 301 times in 1997 and 1998. Commission said station also failed to establish effective program to ensure compliance.
EchoStar said Mon. it now was offering Starband Internet service for DISH satellite TV and Starband subscribers. Customers can receive 2-way, high-speed Internet and satellite TV with same dish. DISH network retailers are offering service. Company also unveiled DISH Pro 501 satellite TV receiver that features 30 hours of digital video recording and other personal TV services, as well as Pro 301 TV receiver.