CRTC CHANGES RADIO RULES
By Adnews Staff
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission has amended its radio regulations. Under the new rules, commercial radio stations must increase its level of Canadian music played from 30% to 35%. They must meet this requirement both over the week, and between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. In addition, Canadian music selections must be played in their entirety to count them towards the 35%. French-language radio stations must play French-language music 65% over the week. In addition, 55% of the vocal music selections broadcast by French stations must be in French between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The selections must be played in their entirety to count towards these requirements. For radio stations that are using the oldies format, the CRTC will allow them to apply for an exception that would allow them to maintain the current level of 30% of Canadian music played. The organization realizes that these stations have a limited supply of Canadian music. In order to qualify as an oldies station, at least 90% of the music played by the radio station must be from before 1981. The new rules will become effective Jan. 3. The commission is also reviewing its policies on ethnic, community and campus radio.