Emmis fights for Hungarian FM network.

The National Radio and Television Board has voted to yank Emmis’ license for the 16-station Slager Radio network. It wants to hand the frequencies to a consortium of politically-connected Hungarian investors, giving Emmis until November 18 to power down the oldies-based AC network.

Slager station manager Heal Edina says in a post on the station’s website, “A political decision has been made, which means that Hungary’s democracy and press freedom has suffered a serious blow.” Edina says Emmis will take all legal action needed to keep the 11-year old network on the air. The company wanted a new seven year contract with an additional five-year extension despite the fact Slager revenues were off 47% in the six months ending August 31.

Emmis ran into a similar renewal speed bump seven years ago when the board voted to pull the license for non-payment of broadcasting fees. They eventually worked out an agreeable number. This time it’s politics, not money.