FCC Announces Intent to Fine Vendor for Blocking Consumer Wi-Fi Connections at Baltimore Convention Center

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced Monday that it plans a $718,000 fine against M.C. Dean for blocking consumers’ Wi-Fi connections at the Baltimore Convention Center.

The FCC says the Enforcement Bureau investigation found that M.C. Dean, Inc., one of the nation’s largest electrical contracting companies, blocked personal mobile “hotspots” of convention visitors and exhibitors who tried to use their own data plans to connect to the Internet rather than paying M.C. Dean substantial fees to use the company’s Wi-Fi service.

NRB (National Religious Broadcasters) Issues Statement Supporting FCC AM Radio Revitalization Order

FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler

National Religions Broadcasters, organizers of the Proclaim 16 NRB International Christian Media Convention, issued a statement Monday commending a recent release by the Federal Communications Commission of an order supporting the revitalization of AM radio.

"I congratulate FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler and all at the Commission who made the release of this order a priority," said Dr. Jerry A. Johnson, President & CEO of NRB. “I particularly thank Commissioners Ajit Pai and Mignon Clyburn for working so diligently over the years on behalf of AM radio's revitalization. This order takes important steps to improve this long relied upon and relevant radio band serving local communities."

As NRB's membership comprises numerous AM radio stations, this effort is of great significance. NRB previously filed comments in this proceeding that, among other recommendations, urged an AM filing window for FM translators and the elimination of the "ratchet rule."