Alternative Broadcast Inspection Program (ABIP)

The KBA Alternative Broadcast Inspection Program (ABIP) is a special partnership between the KBA and the FCC. Stations which participate in the ABIP program can receive a 3-year exemption from routine FCC inspections. The FCC and KBA have an official agreement regarding the alternative inspections and information gathered by the alternative inspector is confidential between the station and the alternative inspector.

The KBA conducts alternative inspections throughout the year. To participate in the program contact the KBA for the paperwork needed and it will be mailed to you. 

Step-by-Step of How ABIP Works:

1. Determine if your station(s) wish to participate in the program. Review all the following details to make an informed decision.
2. Submit the completed ABIP application and return with payment to KBA. On the agreement, you MUST indicate if you want to have a 150-day grace-period of inspections (more details below).
3. Once KBA receives the ABIP application, the information is turned over to the inspector who in turn will contact the station to set inspection date.
   
       ** If the station elects for the grace-period option, the KBA notifies the FCC that this station is awaiting an inspection. The FCC agrees not to conduct a routine inspection for the next 150 days. If the station elects NOT to accept the grace-period option, there is no protection from a routine FCC until the station receives a certificate of compliance. However, the FCC is never notified that the station is participating in the program (until the station passes the inspection and receives a Certificate of Compliance).
    
4. The station and KBA agree upon an inspection date within 150 days.
5. On the assigned date, the KBA inspector conducts the alternative inspection at your station. If the station desires, the inspector will work with station staff to cover many of the details and compliance issues. The inspection also serves as an educational workshop for your staff. If no staff is available, the inspector will conduct the inspection anyway.
6. Upon completion of the inspection (regardless of the results), your station receives a confidential summary of the inspection.
7. If your station passes the ABIP, you will receive a Certificate of Compliance. A letter is sent to the FCC which has guaranteed that they will not conduct a routine inspection of that station for three years. If your station does not pass the alternative inspection, you will have an opportunity to correct the infractions as indicated in your confidential report. A re-inspection may be necessary depending on the issues. The FCC is not notified of stations which do not pass or do not correct the infractions.

NOTE: 

• Each station will receive a complete report from the inspector on the station. This report is confidential and is not shared with the FCC or any other party.  

What EXACTLY is covered in an ABIP inspection? 

The inspector will cover all the items listed on the FCC's Self Inspection Checklists. KBA encourages every station to review this checklist regardless of whether the station participates in the ABIP program.  

Rates & Terms 

FEES EXPENSES & PAYMENT TERMS:

Single, Non-directional AM of Single FM                        $300

AM/FM Combo with AM Non-directional             $350

Duopoly (Above base fee + $150 for every station over two)

Directional AM add                                            $150

Television Station                                              $500

Re-inspection ($35 per hour + expenses)

Payment:  The total due must accompany your application.

Payments should be made payable to the KBA. Payments to the KBA may be deductible as a legitimate business expenses under the Internal Revenue Code.

To request an inspection of your station(s) please contact the KBA office by phone

1-888-843-5221 or by e-mail kba@kba.org.  The contract will be sent to you via regular mail.