The FCC's Media Bureau has adopted a new rule that permits FM radio stations to voluntarily increase digital power levels up to 10 percent of their analog power levels. This establishes interference mitigation and procedures to resolve complaints of interference to analog stations. "These rule changes will substantially boost digital signal coverage while safeguarding analog reception against interference from higher power digital transmissions," reads a notice on FCC.gov. The power hike had been sought by broadcasters who complained that their HD Radio signals didn't cover as much ground as their analog signals. Currently, stations are permitted to transmit digitally at only one percent of analog power.

The new order will permit most FM stations to immediately increase digital power by 6 dB, a four-fold power increase, and it will limit power increases for stations currently licensed in excess of class maximums to protect analog radio service from interference. It also will establish application procedures for power increases up to 10 dB; Establish interference remediation procedures that require the Media Bureau to resolve each bona fide dispute or impose tiered power reductions within 90 days; and reserve the right to revisit the issue of digital power levels if significant interference results to analog reception.

"Today's ruling will result in greatly improved indoor reception for HD Radio listeners and greater service reliability for portable HD Radio devices," stated NAB EVP Dennis Wharton. "Broadcasters salute the FCC for taking this important step, which will allow free and local radio stations to better serve communities across America."