Local radio stations can now broadcast different programs to different neighborhoods

The US communications regulator now allows FM radio booster stations to create their own original programming. This means a single radio station can broadcast different content to specific parts of its service area.

Before this rule, FM booster stations could only re-broadcast the main station's signal. They could not create new content. This change means local radio can now offer hyper-local news, weather, or advertising to specific neighborhoods. It could make local radio more relevant and competitive against digital alternatives.