While the NAB whines about the "irresponsibility" of satellite radio companies, terrestrial radio is not without problems of their own. Four major terrestrial radio companies, Clear Channel, CBS Radio, Entercom and Citadel, are all expected to be making a major payola settlement with the FCC.

The broadcasters have agreed to a tentative settlement which would pay out $12.5 million to the U.S. government, according to Business Week (via FMQB).

The companies' stations will also offer 8,400 half-hours (which I assume totals to 4,200 hours) of free airtime to independent and local artists. FMQB has confirmed that the time devoted to independent artists would be required to air between 6am and midnight.

FCC sources told Business Week that the final language of the agreements have yet to be approved, and that the payment deal is separate from the airplay agreement.