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From time to time, a community radio station may have a person who is not an American citizen that the station would like to add to the board of directors. However, some have heard that non-citizens cannot serve on a board of directors. Is that true?

The Federal Communications Commission has had rules barring non-U.S. citizens from serving on station boards. However, rules have changed. Current rules also cover the percentage of board members (e.g. owners) who are not citizens.

NFCB provides a detailed explanation on whether and on what conditions those who are not U.S. citizens may serve on a community radio board of directors. This advisement comes from the law firm Foster Garvey. It is available in the Solution Center. Member stations can access the Solution Center by logging in here. If your station is not a member, you can join here.