The FCC’s Enforcement Bureau has entered into a Consent Decree with American Public Media Group, Minnesota Public Radio d/b/a American Public Media, and Southern California Public Radio to resolve an investigation involving the broadcast of Emergency Alert System tones.
The action was adopted and released December 10, 2025, in Order DA 25-1035. The Bureau investigated whether APMG transmitted or caused the transmission of EAS tones during an episode of the BBC program Witness History titled “Chasing the World’s Biggest Tornado.” The program aired May 24, 2023, and the FCC said the EAS tones were broadcast in the absence of an actual emergency, authorized EAS test, or qualifying public service announcement.
According to the Consent Decree, the program was transmitted by each of the 46 stations licensed to Minnesota Public Radio and Southern California Public Radio, as well as approximately 500 affiliated stations. APMG distributes BBC programming in the United States through Minnesota Public Radio d/b/a American Public Media.
The FCC emphasized that unauthorized use of actual or simulated EAS tones can create public-safety concerns, including “alert fatigue,” possible false EAS activations, and interference with legitimate emergency alerts. The investigation concerned compliance with Sections 11.31 and 11.45 of the Commission’s rules governing EAS codes, Attention Signals, and simulations.
To resolve the matter, APMG agreed to implement a compliance plan and pay an $86,400 voluntary contribution to the U.S. Treasury. The compliance plan requires designation of a compliance officer, written operating procedures, a compliance manual, employee training, reporting of noncompliance, and compliance reports to the FCC.
The Bureau terminated the investigation and dismissed related pending third-party complaints. The Order also stated that, in the absence of material new evidence, the Bureau would not set for hearing the question of APMG’s basic qualifications to hold or obtain FCC licenses or authorizations.