Which of the following is NOT a common offense leading to an FCC violation?

In the context of FCC violations, the correct choice focuses on understanding the specifics of regulatory oversight concerning broadcasting and telecommunications. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is primarily concerned with ensuring compliance with regulations that directly affect public safety, broadcast quality, and transparency in advertising practices.

The first three options—failure to report EAS tests, improper tower lighting, and not maintaining a public file—are indeed common offenses that can lead to FCC violations. EAS (Emergency Alert System) tests are crucial for ensuring public safety and preparedness, and failure to report these tests undermines that efficacy. Improper tower lighting poses safety risks for aviation and can lead to dangerous situations if not managed correctly. Maintaining a public file is essential for transparency and accountability in broadcasting, so failure to do so can result in violations as well.

On the other hand, while advertising practices are regulated and must adhere to guidelines set forth by the FCC, inaccuracies in advertising rates do not typically result in direct FCC violations in the same way that the other offenses mentioned do. Instead, they may fall under the purview of other consumer protection laws or business regulations rather than specific broadcasting violations enforced by the FCC.

This distinction highlights that accurate reporting and operational practices in broadcasting are vital to regulatory compliance, while discrepancies