88 FR 143 pgs. 48642-48680 - Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions—Spring 2023
Type: PRORULEVolume: 88Number: 143Pages: 48642 - 48680
Pages: 48642, 48643, 48644, 48645, 48646, 48648, 48649, 48650, 48651, 48652, 48653, 48654, 48655, 48656, 48657, 48658, 48659, 48660, 48661, 48662, 48663, 48664, 48665, 48666, 48667, 48668, 48669, 48670, 48671, 48672, 48673, 48674, 48675, 48676, 48677, 48678, 48679, 48680FR document: [FR Doc. 2023-14555 Filed 7-26-23; 8:45 am]
Agency: Federal Communications Commission
Official PDF Version: PDF Version
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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
47 CFR Ch. I
Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions-Spring 2023
AGENCY:
Federal Communications Commission.
ACTION:
Semiannual Regulatory Agenda.
SUMMARY:
Twice a year, in spring and fall, the Commission publishes in the Federal Register a list in the Unified Agenda of those major items and other significant proceedings under development or review that pertain to the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602). The Unified Agenda also provides the Code of Federal Regulations citations and legal authorities that govern these proceedings. The complete Unified Agenda will be published on the internet in a searchable format at www.reginfo.gov.
ADDRESSES:
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Andrea Brown, Program Specialist, Office of Communications Business Opportunities, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, (202) 418-1663.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Unified Agenda of Major and Other Significant Proceedings
The Commission encourages public participation in its rulemaking process. To help keep the public informed of significant rulemaking proceedings, the Commission has prepared a list of important proceedings now in progress. The General Services Administration publishes the Unified Agenda in the Federal Register in the spring and fall of each year.
The following terms may be helpful in understanding the status of the proceedings included in this report:
Docket Number -assigned to a proceeding if the Commission has issued either a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking or a Notice of Inquiry concerning the matter under consideration. The Commission has used docket numbers since January 1, 1978. Docket numbers consist of the last two digits of the calendar year in which the docket was established plus a sequential number that begins at 1 with the first docket initiated during a calendar year ( e.g., Docket No. 15-1 or Docket No. 17-1). The abbreviation for the responsible bureau usually precedes the docket number, as in "MB Docket No. 15-137," which indicates that the responsible bureau is the Media Bureau. A docket number consisting of only five digits ( e.g., Docket No. 29622) indicates that the docket was established before January 1, 1978.
Notice of Inquiry (NOI) -the Commission will issue an NOI when it is seeking information on a broad subject or trying to generate ideas on a given topic. Interested parties may submit comments during the specified comment period.
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) -the Commission will issue an NPRM when it is proposing new rules or changes to existing rules and regulations. Before any changes are actually made, the Commission requests interested parties to submit written comments on the proposed rules or revisions.
Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) -the Commission will issue an FNPRM when it is seeking additional information from the public and requests the public to submit comments in the proceeding.
Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O) -the Commission will issue an MO&O in response to a petition for rulemaking, to conclude an inquiry, modify a decision, amend a Report and Order, or state that the Report and Order will not be changed.
Rulemaking (RM) Number -assigned to a proceeding after the appropriate bureau or office has reviewed a petition for rulemaking, but before the Commission has taken action on the petition.
Report and Order (R&O) -the Commission may issue an R&O that will either adopt new rules, change existing rules, or state that no rule or regulation changes will be made.
Marlene H. Dortch,
Secretary, Federal Communications Commission.
| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 263 | Rules and Regulations Implementing the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) of 1991 (CG Docket No. 02-278) | 3060-AI14 |
| 264 | Rules and Regulations Implementing Section 225 of the Communications Act (Telecommunications Relay Service) (CG Docket No. 03-123) | 3060-AI15 |
| 265 | Structure and Practices of the Video Relay Service (VRS) Program (CG Docket No. 10-51) | 3060-AJ42 |
| 266 | Implementation of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012/Establishment of a Public Safety Answering Point Do-Not-Call Registry (CG Docket No. 12-129) | 3060-AJ84 |
| 267 | Implementation of Sections 716 and 717 of the Communications Act of 1934, as Enacted by the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CG Docket No. 10-213) | 3060-AK00 |
| 268 | Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Captioned Telephone Service; Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services; CG Docket No. 13-24 | 3060-AK01 |
| 269 | Advanced Methods to Target and Eliminate Unlawful Robocalls (CG Docket No. 17-59) | 3060-AK62 |
| 270 | Empowering Broadband Consumers Through Transparency (CG Docket No 02-278) | 3060-AL33 |
| 271 | Targeting and Eliminating Unlawful Text Messages, CG Docket 21-403, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking | 3060-AL49 |
| 272 | Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Relay Service; CG Docket No. 12-38 | 3060-AL58 |
| 273 | Compensation for Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service | 3060-AL59 |
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| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 274 | Development of Nationwide Broadband Data to Evaluate Reasonable and Timely Deployment of Advanced Services to All Americans | 3060-AJ15 |
| 275 | Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum Through Incentive Auctions (GN Docket No. 12-268) | 3060-AJ82 |
| 276 | Broadband Data Collection | 3060-AL42 |
| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 277 | Universal Service Reform Mobility Fund (WT Docket No. 10-208) | 3060-AJ58 |
| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 278 | Unlicensed Operation in the TV Broadcast Bands (ET Docket No. 04-186) | 3060-AI52 |
| 279 | Use of the 5.850-5.925 GHz Band; (ET Docket No. 19-138), FCC 19-129 | 3060-AK96 |
| 280 | Unlicensed White Space Device Operations in the Television Bands (ET Docket No. 20-36) | 3060-AL22 |
| 281 | Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain Through the Equipment Authorization and Competitive Bidding Programs; ET Docket No. 21-232, EA Docket No. 21-233 | 3060-AL23 |
| 282 | Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands (ET Docket No. 21-115), 600 MHz Guard Band, 600 MHz Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz | 3060-AL27 |
| 283 | FCC Seeks to Enable State-of-the-Art Radar Sensors in 60 GHz Band (ET Docket No. 21-264) | 3060-AL36 |
| 284 | FCC Proposes to Update Equipment Authorization Rules to Incorporate New and Revised Industry Standards, (ET Docket No. 21-363) | 3060-AL39 |
| 285 | Allocation of Spectrum for Non-Federal Space Launch Operations (ET Docket No. 13-115) | 3060-AL44 |
| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 286 | Update to Parts 2 and 25 Concerning NonGeostationary, Fixed-Satellite Service Systems, and Related Matters: IB Docket No. I6-408 | 3060-AK59 |
| 287 | Amendment of Parts 2 and 25 of the FCC Rules to Facilitate the Use of Earth Stations in Motion Communicating With Geostationary Orbit Space Stations in FSS Bands: IB Docket No. 17-95 | 3060-AK84 |
| 288 | Facilitating the Communications of Earth Stations in Motion With Non-Geostationary Orbit Space Stations: IB Docket No. 18-315 | 3060-AK89 |
| 289 | Space Innovation; Mitigation of Orbital Debris in the New Space Age: IB Docket Nos. 18-313, 22-271 | 3060-AK90 |
| 290 | Process Reform for Executive Branch Review of Certain FCC Applications and Petitions Involving Foreign Ownership (IB Docket No. 16-155) | 3060-AL12 |
| 291 | Parts 2 and 25 to Enable GSO FSS in the 17.3-17.8 GHz Band, Modernize Rules for 17/24 GHz BSS Space Stations, and Establish Off-Axis Uplink Power Limits for Extended Ka-Band FSS (IB Doc. No. 20-330) | 3060-AL28 |
| 292 | Revising Spectrum Sharing Rules for Non-Geostationary Orbit, Fixed-Satellite Service Systems: IB Docket No. 21-456 | 3060-AL41 |
| 293 | Expediting Initial Processing of Satellite and Earth Station Applications; Space Innovation (IB Docket Nos. 22-411 and 22-271) | 3060-AL51 |
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| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 294 | Revision of EEO Rules and Policies (MM Docket No. 98-204) | 3060-AH95 |
| 295 | Establishment of Rules for Digital Low-Power Television, Television Translator, and Television Booster Stations (MB Docket No. 03-185) | 3060-AI38 |
| 296 | Authorizing Permissive Use of the "Next Generation" Broadcast Television Standard (GN Docket No. 16-142) | 3060-AK56 |
| 297 | 2018 Quadrennial Regulatory Review of the Commission's Broadcast Ownership Rules (MB Docket 18-349) | 3060-AK77 |
| 298 | Equal Employment Opportunity Enforcement (MB Docket 19-177) | 3060-AK86 |
| 299 | Duplication of Programming on Commonly Owned Radio Stations (MB Docket No. 19-310) | 3060-AL19 |
| 300 | Sponsorship Identification Requirements for Foreign Government-Provided Programming (MB Docket No. 20-299) | 3060-AL20 |
| 301 | FM Broadcast Booster Stations (MB Docket 20-401) | 3060-AL21 |
| 302 | Amendment of Part 73 Rules to Update Television and Class A Television Broadcast Station Rules, and Rules Applicable to All Broadcast Stations (MB Docket No. 22-227) | 3060-AL50 |
| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 303 | Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees | 3060-AK64 |
| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 304 | Wireless E911 Location Accuracy Requirements: PS Docket No. 07-114 | 3060-AJ52 |
| 305 | Improving Outage Reporting for Submarine Cables and Enhancing Submarine Cable Outage Data; GN Docket No. 15-206 | 3060-AK39 |
| 306 | Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications: (PS Docket No. 15-80, 18-336, 23-5) | 3060-AK40 |
| 307 | New Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; ET Docket No. 04-35 | 3060-AK41 |
| 308 | Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): PS Docket No. 15-91, 15-94, 22-329 | 3060-AK54 |
| 309 | 911 Fee Diversion Rulemaking: PS Docket Nos. 20-291, 09-14 | 3060-AL31 |
| 310 | Resilient Networks, Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; PS Docket No 21-346 | 3060-AL43 |
| 311 | Location-Based Routing for Wireless 911 Calls (P.S. Docket 18-64) | 3060-AL52 |
| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 312 | Amendment of Parts 1, 2, 22, 24, 27, 90, and 95 of the Commission's Rules to Improve Wireless Coverage Through the Use of Signal Boosters (WT Docket No. 10-4) | 3060-AJ87 |
| 313 | Promoting Technological Solutions to Combat Wireless Contraband Device Use in Correctional Facilities; GN Docket No. 13-111 | 3060-AK06 |
| 314 | Promoting Investment in the 3550-3700 MHz Band; GN Docket No. 17-258 | 3060-AK12 |
| 315 | Updating Part 1 Competitive Bidding Rules (WT Docket No. 14-170) | 3060-AK28 |
| 316 | Use of Spectrum Bands Above 24 GHz for Mobile Services-Spectrum Frontiers: WT Docket 10-112 | 3060-AK44 |
| 317 | Expanding Flexible Use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band: GN Docket No. 18-122 | 3060-AK76 |
| 318 | Amendment of the Commission's Rules to Promote Aviation Safety: WT Docket No. 19-140 | 3060-AK92 |
| 319 | Implementation of State and Local Governments' Obligation to Approve Certain Wireless Facility Modification Requests Under Section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012 (WT Docket No.19-250) | 3060-AL29 |
| 320 | Expanding Flexible Use of the 12.2-12.7 GHz Band, et al., WT Docket No. 20-443, et al | 3060-AL40 |
| 321 | Facilitating Shared Use in the 3100-3550 MHz Band | 3060-AL57 |
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| Sequence No. | Title | Regulation Identifier No. |
|---|---|---|
| 322 | Telecommunications Carriers' Use of Customer Proprietary Network Information and Other Customer Information (CC Docket No. 96-115), Data Breach Reporting Requirements (WC Docket No. 22-21) | 3060-AG43 |
| 323 | Local Telephone Networks That LECs Must Make Available to Competitors | 3060-AH44 |
| 324 | Jurisdictional Separations | 3060-AJ06 |
| 325 | Rates for Inmate Calling Services; WC Docket No. 12-375; Incarcerated People's Communications Services; Implementation of the Martha Wright-Reed Act, WC Docket No. 23-62 | 3060-AK08 |
| 326 | Comprehensive Review of the Part 32 Uniform System of Accounts (WC Docket No. 14-130) | 3060-AK20 |
| 327 | Restoring Internet Freedom (WC Docket No. 17-108); Protecting and Promoting the Open Internet (GN Docket No. 14-28) | 3060-AK21 |
| 328 | Technology Transitions; GN Docket No 13-5, WC Docket No. 05-25; Accelerating Wireline Broadband Deployment by Removing Barriers to Infrastructure Investment; WC Docket No. 17-84 | 3060-AK32 |
| 329 | Numbering Policies for Modern Communications, WC Docket No. 13-97 | 3060-AK36 |
| 330 | Implementation of the Universal Service Portions of the 1996 Telecommunications Act | 3060-AK57 |
| 331 | Toll Free Assignment Modernization and Toll Free Service Access Codes: WC Docket No. 17-192, CC Docket No. 95-155 | 3060-AK91 |
| 332 | Establishing the Digital Opportunity Data Collection; WC Docket Nos. 19-195 and 11-10 | 3060-AK93 |
| 333 | Call Authentication Trust Anchor | 3060-AL00 |
| 334 | Implementation of the National Suicide Improvement Act of 2018 | 3060-AL01 |
| 335 | Modernizing Unbundling and Resale Requirements in an Era of Next-Generation Networks and Services | 3060-AL02 |
| 336 | Establishing a 5G Fund for Rural America; GN Docket No. 20-32 | 3060-AL15 |
| 337 | Improving Competitive Broadband Access to Multiple Tenant Environments | 3060-AL35 |
| 338 | Supporting Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence (WC Docket No. 22-238, 11-42, 21-450) | 3060-AL48 |
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
Long-Term Actions
263. Rules and Regulations Implementing the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) of 1991 (CG Docket No. 02-278) [3060-AI14]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 227
Abstract: In this docket, the Commission considers rules and policies to implement the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (TCPA). The TCPA places requirements on robocalls (calls using an automatic telephone dialing system, an autodialer, a prerecorded or, an artificial voice), telemarketing calls, and unsolicited fax advertisements.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 10/08/02 | 67 FR 62667 |
| FNPRM | 04/03/03 | 68 FR 16250 |
| Order | 07/25/03 | 68 FR 44144 |
| Order Effective | 08/25/03 | |
| Order on Reconsideration | 08/25/03 | 68 FR 50978 |
| Order | 10/14/03 | 68 FR 59130 |
| FNPRM | 03/31/04 | 69 FR 16873 |
| Order | 10/08/04 | 69 FR 60311 |
| Order | 10/28/04 | 69 FR 62816 |
| Order on Reconsideration | 04/13/05 | 70 FR 19330 |
| Order | 06/30/05 | 70 FR 37705 |
| NPRM | 12/19/05 | 70 FR 75102 |
| Public Notice | 04/26/06 | 71 FR 24634 |
| Order | 05/03/06 | 71 FR 25967 |
| NPRM | 12/14/07 | 72 FR 71099 |
| Declaratory Ruling | 02/01/08 | 73 FR 6041 |
| R&O | 07/14/08 | 73 FR 40183 |
| Order on Reconsideration | 10/30/08 | 73 FR 64556 |
| NPRM | 03/22/10 | 75 FR 13471 |
| R&O | 06/11/12 | 77 FR 34233 |
| Public Notice | 06/30/10 | 75 FR 34244 |
| Public Notice (Reconsideration Petitions Filed) | 10/03/12 | 77 FR 60343 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 10/16/12 | 77 FR 63240 |
| Opposition End Date | 10/18/12 | |
| Rule Corrections | 11/08/12 | 77 FR 66935 |
| Declaratory Ruling (release date) | 11/29/12 | |
| Declaratory Ruling (release date) | 05/09/13 | |
| Declaratory Ruling and Order | 10/09/15 | 80 FR 61129 |
| NPRM | 05/20/16 | 81 FR 31889 |
| Declaratory Ruling | 07/05/16 | |
| R&O | 11/16/16 | 81 FR 80594 |
| Public Notice | 06/28/18 | 83 FR 26284 |
| Public Notice | 10/03/18 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 12/06/19 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 12/09/19 | |
| Order | 03/17/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 03/20/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 06/25/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling and Order | 06/25/20 | |
| Order on Reconsideration | 08/28/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 09/04/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 09/21/20 | |
| NPRM | 10/09/20 | 85 FR 64091 |
| Public Notice | 12/17/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 12/18/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 01/15/21 | |
| Order on Recon | 02/12/21 | 86 FR 9299 |
| R&O | 02/25/21 | 86 FR 11443 |
| Public Notice (Reconsideration Petitions Filed) | 04/12/21 | 86 FR 18934 |
| Declaratory Ruling and Order | 12/14/22 | 87 FR 76425 |
| Order on Reconsideration and Declaratory Ruling | 01/20/23 | 88 FR 3668 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Kristi Thornton, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2467, Email: kristi.thornton@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AI14
264. Rules and Regulations Implementing Section 225 of the Communications Act (Telecommunications Relay Service) (CG Docket No. 03-123) [3060-AI15]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225
Abstract: This proceeding continues the Commission's inquiry into improving the quality of telecommunications relay service (TRS) and furthering the goal of functional equivalency, consistent with Congress' mandate that TRS regulations encourage the use of existing technology and not discourage or impair the development of new technology. In this docket, the Commission explores ways to improve emergency preparedness for TRS facilities and services, new TRS technologies, public access to information and outreach, and issues related to payments from the Interstate TRS Fund.
Timetable:
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| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 08/25/03 | 68 FR 50993 |
| R&O, Order on Reconsideration | 09/01/04 | 69 FR 53346 |
| FNPRM | 09/01/04 | 69 FR 53382 |
| Public Notice | 02/17/05 | 70 FR 8034 |
| Declaratory Ruling/Interpretation | 02/25/05 | 70 FR 9239 |
| Public Notice | 03/07/05 | 70 FR 10930 |
| Order | 03/23/05 | 70 FR 14568 |
| Public Notice/Announcement of Date | 04/06/05 | 70 FR 17334 |
| Order | 07/01/05 | 70 FR 38134 |
| Order on Reconsideration | 08/31/05 | 70 FR 51643 |
| R&O | 08/31/05 | 70 FR 51649 |
| Order | 09/14/05 | 70 FR 54294 |
| Order | 09/14/05 | 70 FR 54298 |
| Public Notice | 10/12/05 | 70 FR 59346 |
| R&O/Order on Reconsideration | 12/23/05 | 70 FR 76208 |
| Order | 12/28/05 | 70 FR 76712 |
| Order | 12/29/05 | 70 FR 77052 |
| NPRM | 02/01/06 | 71 FR 5221 |
| Declaratory Ruling/Clarification | 05/31/06 | 71 FR 30818 |
| FNPRM | 05/31/06 | 71 FR 30848 |
| FNPRM | 06/01/06 | 71 FR 31131 |
| Declaratory Ruling/Dismissal of Petition | 06/21/06 | 71 FR 35553 |
| Clarification | 06/28/06 | 71 FR 36690 |
| Declaratory Ruling on Reconsideration | 07/06/06 | 71 FR 38268 |
| Order on Reconsideration | 08/16/06 | 71 FR 47141 |
| MO&O | 08/16/06 | 71 FR 47145 |
| Clarification | 08/23/06 | 71 FR 49380 |
| FNPRM | 09/13/06 | 71 FR 54009 |
| Final Rule; Clarification | 02/14/07 | 72 FR 6960 |
| Order | 03/14/07 | 72 FR 11789 |
| R&O | 08/06/07 | 72 FR 43546 |
| Public Notice | 08/16/07 | 72 FR 46060 |
| Order | 11/01/07 | 72 FR 61813 |
| Public Notice | 01/04/08 | 73 FR 863 |
| R&O/Declaratory Ruling | 01/17/08 | 73 FR 3197 |
| Order | 02/19/08 | 73 FR 9031 |
| Order | 04/21/08 | 73 FR 21347 |
| R&O | 04/21/08 | 73 FR 21252 |
| Order | 04/23/08 | 73 FR 21843 |
| Public Notice | 04/30/08 | 73 FR 23361 |
| Order | 05/15/08 | 73 FR 28057 |
| Declaratory Ruling | 07/08/08 | 73 FR 38928 |
| FNPRM | 07/18/08 | 73 FR 41307 |
| R&O | 07/18/08 | 73 FR 41286 |
| Public Notice | 08/01/08 | 73 FR 45006 |
| Public Notice | 08/05/08 | 73 FR 45354 |
| Public Notice | 10/10/08 | 73 FR 60172 |
| Order | 10/23/08 | 73 FR 63078 |
| 2nd R&O and Order on Reconsideration | 12/30/08 | 73 FR 79683 |
| Order | 05/06/09 | 74 FR 20892 |
| Public Notice | 05/07/09 | 74 FR 21364 |
| NPRM | 05/21/09 | 74 FR 23815 |
| Public Notice | 05/21/09 | 74 FR 23859 |
| Public Notice | 06/12/09 | 74 FR 28046 |
| Order | 07/29/09 | 74 FR 37624 |
| Public Notice | 08/07/09 | 74 FR 39699 |
| Order | 09/18/09 | 74 FR 47894 |
| Order | 10/26/09 | 74 FR 54913 |
| Public Notice | 05/12/10 | 75 FR 26701 |
| Order Denying Stay Motion (Release Date) | 07/09/10 | |
| Order | 08/13/10 | 75 FR 49491 |
| Order | 09/03/10 | 75 FR 54040 |
| NPRM | 11/02/10 | 75 FR 67333 |
| NPRM | 05/02/11 | 76 FR 24442 |
| Order | 07/25/11 | 76 FR 44326 |
| Final Rule (Order) | 09/27/11 | 76 FR 59551 |
| Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 11/22/11 | 76 FR 72124 |
| Proposed Rule (Public Notice) | 02/28/12 | 77 FR 11997 |
| Proposed Rule (FNPRM) | 02/01/12 | 77 FR 4948 |
| First R&O | 07/25/12 | 77 FR 43538 |
| Public Notice | 10/29/12 | 77 FR 65526 |
| Order on Reconsideration | 12/26/12 | 77 FR 75894 |
| Order | 02/05/13 | 78 FR 8030 |
| Order (Interim Rule) | 02/05/13 | 78 FR 8032 |
| NPRM | 02/05/13 | 78 FR 8090 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 03/07/13 | 78 FR 14701 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/13/13 | |
| FNPRM | 07/05/13 | 78 FR 40407 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/18/13 | |
| R&O | 07/05/13 | 78 FR 40582 |
| R&O | 08/15/13 | 78 FR 49693 |
| FNPRM | 08/15/13 | 78 FR 49717 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/30/13 | |
| R&O | 08/30/13 | 78 FR 53684 |
| FNPRM | 09/03/13 | 78 FR 54201 |
| NPRM | 10/23/13 | 78FR 63152 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 11/18/13 | |
| Petiton for Reconsideration; Request for Comment | 12/16/13 | 78 FR 76096 |
| Petition for Reconsideration; Request for Comment | 12/16/13 | 78 FR 76097 |
| Request for Clarification; Request for Comment; Correction | 12/30/13 | 78 FR 79362 |
| Petition for Reconsideration Comment Period End | 01/10/14 | |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 01/21/14 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 07/11/14 | 79 FR 40003 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 08/28/14 | 79 FR 51446 |
| Correction-Announcement of Effective Date | 08/28/14 | 79 FR 51450 |
| Technical Amendments | 09/09/14 | 79 FR 53303 |
| Public Notice | 09/15/14 | 79 FR 54979 |
| R&O and Order | 10/21/14 | 79 FR 62875 |
| FNPRM | 10/21/14 | 79 FR 62935 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 12/22/14 | |
| Final Action (Announcement of Effective Date) | 10/30/14 | 79 FR 64515 |
| Final Rule Effective | 10/30/14 | |
| FNPRM | 11/08/15 | 80 FR 72029 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 01/01/16 | |
| Public Notice | 01/20/16 | 81 FR 3085 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 02/16/16 | |
| R&O | 03/21/16 | 81 FR 14984 |
| FNPRM | 08/24/16 | 81 FR 57851 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/14/16 | |
| NOI and FNPRM | 04/12/17 | 82 FR 17613 |
| NOI and FNPRM Comment Period End | 05/30/17 | |
| R&O | 04/13/17 | 82 FR 17754 |
| R&O | 04/27/17 | 82 FR 19322 |
| FNPRM | 04/27/17 | 82 FR 19347 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 07/11/17 | |
| R&O | 06/23/17 | 82 FR 28566 |
| Public Notice | 07/21/17 | 82 FR 33856 |
| Public Notice-Correction | 07/25/17 | 82 FR 34471 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 07/31/17 | |
| Public Notice-Correction Comment Period End | 08/17/17 | |
| R&O | 08/22/17 | 82 FR 39673 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 10/17/17 | 82 FR 48203 |
| Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration | 10/25/17 | 82 FR 49303 |
| Oppositions Due Date | 11/20/17 | |
| R&O and Declaratory Ruling | 06/27/18 | 83 FR 30082 |
| FNPRM | 07/18/18 | 83 FR 33899 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 11/15/18 | |
| Public Notice | 08/23/18 | 83 FR 42630 |
| Public Notice Opposition Period End | 09/17/18 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 02/04/19 | 84 FR 1409 |
| R&O | 03/08/19 | 84 FR 8457 |
| FNPRM | 03/14/19 | 84 FR 9276 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 04/29/19 | |
| R&O | 06/06/19 | 84 FR 26364 |
| FNPRM | 06/06/19 | 84 FR 26379 |
| Petition for Recon Request for Comment | 06/18/19 | 84 FR 28264 |
| Petition for Recon Comment Period End | 07/15/19 | |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/05/19 | |
| R&O | 01/06/20 | 85 FR 462 |
| R&O | 01/09/20 | 85 FR 1125 |
| NPRM | 01/09/20 | 85 FR 1134 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/13/20 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 02/19/20 | 85 FR 9392 |
| Final Rule; removal of compliance notices | 05/06/20 | 85 FR 26857 |
| Report & Order | 05/08/20 | 85 FR 27309 |
| Final Rule; correction | 08/26/20 | 85 FR 52489 |
| R&O and Order on Recon | 10/14/20 | 85 FR 64971 |
| Final Rule; announcement of effective and compliance dates | 10/23/20 | 85 FR 67447 |
| FNPRM | 02/01/21 | 86 FR 7681 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 04/02/21 | |
| Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration | 02/22/21 | 86 FR 10458 |
| Oppositions Due Date | 03/19/21 | |
| R&O | 02/23/21 | 86 FR 10844 |
| NPRM | 03/19/21 | 86 FR 14859 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 05/03/21 | |
| NPRM | 06/04/21 | 86 FR 29969 |
| NPRM Correction | 06/15/21 | 86 FR 31668 |
| Order on Recon | 07/07/21 | 86 FR 35632 |
| Public Notice | 07/15/21 | 86 FR 37328 |
| NPRM Correction Comment Period End | 07/30/21 | |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 08/09/21 | |
| Order on Recon; Correction | 10/05/21 | 86 FR 54871 |
| NPRM | 10/05/21 | 86 FR 64440 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 01/18/22 | |
| Report & Order | 07/18/22 | 87 FR 42656 |
| Report & Order | 09/21/22 | 87 FR 57645 |
| Report & Order | 11/25/22 | 87 FR 72409 |
| NPRM | 12/08/22 | 87 FR 75199 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/06/23 | |
| Public Notice | 01/31/23 | 88 FR 6220 |
| Public Notice Opposition Period End | 02/27/23 | |
| NPRM | 02/02/23 | 88 FR 7049 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/03/23 | |
| Order on Reconsideration | 02/22/22 | |
| Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 03/08/23 | 88 FR 14251 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554.
Phone: 202 418-2235.
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AI15
265. Structure and Practices of the Video Relay Service (VRS) Program (CG Docket No. 10-51) [3060-AJ42]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: The Commission takes a fresh look at its VRS rules to ensure that it is available to and used by the full spectrum of eligible users, encourages innovation, and is provided efficiently to be less susceptible to the waste, fraud, and abuse that have plagued the program and threatened its long-term viability. The Commission also considers the most effective and efficient way to make VRS available and to determine what is the most fair, efficient, and transparent cost-recovery methodology. In addition, the Commission looks at various ways to measure the quality of VRS so as to ensure a better consumer experience.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| Declaratory Ruling | 05/07/10 | 75 FR 25255 |
| Declaratory Ruling | 07/13/10 | 75 FR 39945 |
| Order | 07/13/10 | 75 FR 39859 |
| Notice of Inquiry | 07/19/10 | 75 FR 41863 |
| NPRM | 08/23/10 | 75 FR 51735 |
| Interim Final Rule | 02/15/11 | 76 FR 8659 |
| Public Notice | 03/02/11 | 76 R 11462 |
| R&O | 05/02/11 | 76 FR 24393 |
| FNPRM | 05/02/11 | 76 FR 24437 |
| NPRM | 05/02/11 | 76 FR 24442 |
| R&O (Correction) | 05/27/11 | 76 FR 30841 |
| Order | 07/25/11 | 76 FR 44326 |
| 2nd R&O | 08/05/11 | 76 FR 47469 |
| Order (Interim Final Rule) | 08/05/11 | 76 FR 47476 |
| Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 09/26/11 | 76 FR 59269 |
| Final Rule; Petition for Reconsideration; Public Notice | 09/27/11 | 76 FR 59557 |
| Oppositions Due Date | 10/07/11 | |
| Final Rule; Clarification (MO&O) | 10/31/11 | 76 FR 67070 |
| FNPRM | 10/31/11 | 76 FR 67118 |
| Interim Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 11/03/11 | 76 FR 68116 |
| Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 11/04/11 | 76 FR 68328 |
| Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 11/07/11 | 76 FR 68642 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 12/30/11 | |
| FNPRM | 02/01/12 | 77 FR 4948 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 03/19/12 | |
| Final Rule; Correction | 03/27/12 | 77 FR 18106 |
| Correcting Amendments | 06/07/12 | 77 FR 33662 |
| Order (Release Date) | 07/25/12 | |
| Correcting Amendments | 10/04/12 | 77 FR 60630 |
| Public Notice | 10/29/12 | 77 FR 65526 |
| Comment Period End | 11/29/12 | |
| FNPRM | 07/05/13 | 78 FR 40407 |
| R&O | 07/05/13 | 78 FR 40582 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/18/13 | |
| Public Notice | 09/11/13 | 78 FR 55696 |
| Public Notice | 09/15/14 | 79 FR 54979 |
| Comment Period End | 10/10/14 | |
| Final Action (Announcement of Effective Date) | 10/30/14 | 79 FR 64515 |
| Final Rule Effective | 10/30/14 | |
| FNPRM | 11/18/15 | 80 FR 72029 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 02/01/16 | |
| R&O | 03/21/16 | 81 FR 14984 |
| FNPRM | 08/24/16 | 81 FR 57851 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/14/16 | |
| NOI and FNPRM | 04/12/17 | 82 FR 17613 |
| NOI and FNPRM Comment Period End | 05/30/17 | |
| R&O | 04/13/17 | 82 FR 17754 |
| R&O | 04/27/17 | 82 FR 19322 |
| FNPRM | 04/27/17 | 82 FR 19347 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 07/01/17 | |
| Order | 06/23/17 | 82 FR 28566 |
| Public Notice | 07/21/17 | 82 FR 33856 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 07/31/17 | |
| Public Notice Correction | 07/25/17 | 82 FR 34471 |
| Public Notice Correction Comment Period End | 08/17/17 | |
| R&O and Order | 08/22/17 | 82 FR 39673 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 10/17/17 | 82 FR 48203 |
| Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration | 10/25/17 | 82 FR 49303 |
| Oppositions Due Date | 11/20/17 | |
| R&O | 06/06/19 | 84 FR 26364 |
| FNPRM | 06/06/19 | 84 FR 26379 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/05/19 | |
| Report & Order | 05/08/20 | 85 FR 27309 |
| R&O and Order on Recon | 10/14/20 | 85 FR 64971 |
| Final rule; announcement of effective and compliance dates | 10/23/20 | 85 FR 67447 |
| FNPRM | 02/01/21 | 86 FR 7681 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 04/02/21 | |
| Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration | 02/22/21 | 86 FR 10458 |
| Oppositions Due Date | 03/19/21 | |
| NPRM | 03/19/21 | 86 FR 14859 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 05/03/21 | |
| NPRM | 06/04/21 | 86 FR 29969 |
| NPRM Correction | 06/15/21 | 86 FR 31668 |
| NPRM Correction Comment Period End | 07/30/21 | |
| Order on Recon | 07/07/21 | 86 FR 35632 |
| Order on Recon; Correction | 10/05/21 | 86 FR 54871 |
| Report & Order | 09/21/22 | 87 FR 57645 |
| Report & Order | 11/25/22 | 87 FR 72409 |
| NPRM | 12/08/22 | 87 FR 75199 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/06/23 | |
| Public Notice | 01/31/23 | 88 FR 6220 |
| Public Notice Opposition Period End | 02/27/23 | |
| Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 03/08/23 | 88 FR 14251 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554.
Phone: 202 418-2235.
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov .
[top] RIN: 3060-AJ42
266. Implementation of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012/Establishment of a Public Safety Answering Point Do-Not-Call Registry (CG Docket No. 12-129) [3060-AJ84]
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 112-96, sec. 6507
Abstract: The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 required the Commission to create a Do-Not-Call Registry for public safety answering point (PSAP) telephone numbers and to prohibit the use of automated dialing equipment to place calls to PSAP numbers on the Registry. In this docket, the Commission adopted rules and policies implementing these statutory requirements.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/21/12 | 77 FR 37362 |
| R&O | 10/29/12 | 77 FR 71131 |
| Correction Amendments | 02/13/13 | 78 FR 10099 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 03/26/13 | 78 FR 18246 |
| FNPRM | 11/01/21 | 86 FR 60189 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 12/01/21 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required : Yes.
Agency Contact: Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 717 338-2797, Fax: 717 338-2574, Email: richard.smith@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AJ84
267. Implementation of Sections 716 and 717 of the Communications Act of 1934, as Enacted by the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CG Docket No. 10-213) [3060-AK00]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 255; 47 U.S.C. 617 to 619
Abstract: These proceedings implement sections 716, 717, and 718 of the Communications Act, which were added by the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA), related to the accessibility of advanced communications services and equipment (section 716), recordkeeping and enforcement requirements for entities subject to sections 255, 716, and 718 (section 717), and accessibility of internet browsers built into mobile phones (section 718).
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 03/14/11 | 76 FR 13800 |
| NPRM Comment Period Extended | 04/12/11 | 76 FR 20297 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 05/13/11 | |
| FNPRM | 12/30/11 | 76 FR 82240 |
| R&O | 12/30/11 | 76 FR 82354 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 03/14/12 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 04/25/12 | 77 FR 24632 |
| 2nd R&O | 05/22/13 | 78 FR 30226 |
| R&O on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, and Order | 04/13/15 | 80 FR 19738 |
| Public Notice | 05/19/22 | 87 FR 30442 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 07/18/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Darryl Cooper, Attorney, Disability Rights Office, CGB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7131, Email: darryl.cooper@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK00
268. Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Captioned Telephone Service; Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services; CG Docket No. 13-24 [3060-AK01]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225
Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiated this proceeding in its effort to ensure that internet-Protocol Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS) is provided effectively and in the most efficient manner. In doing so, the FCC adopted rules to address certain practices related to the provision and marketing of IP CTS, as well as compensation of TRS providers. IP CTS is a form of relay service designed to allow people with hearing loss to speak directly to another party on a telephone call and to simultaneously listen to the other party and read captions of what that party is saying over an IP-enabled device. To ensure that IP CTS is provided efficiently to persons who need to use this service, the Commission adopted rules establishing several requirements and issued an FNPRM to address additional issues.
Timetable:
[top]
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/05/13 | 78 FR 8090 |
| Order (Interim Rule) | 02/05/13 | 78 FR 8032 |
| Order | 02/05/13 | 78 FR 8030 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 03/07/13 | 78 FR 14701 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/12/13 | |
| R&O | 08/30/13 | 78 FR 53684 |
| FNPRM | 09/03/13 | 78 FR 54201 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 11/18/13 | |
| Petition for Reconsideration Request for Comment | 12/16/13 | 78 FR 76097 |
| Petition for Reconsideration Comment Period End | 01/10/14 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 07/11/14 | 79 FR 40003 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 08/28/14 | 79 FR 51446 |
| Correction-Announcement of Effective Date | 08/28/14 | 79 FR 51450 |
| Technical Amendments | 09/09/14 | 79 FR 53303 |
| R&O and Declaratory Ruling | 06/27/18 | 83 FR 30082 |
| FNPRM | 07/18/18 | 83 FR 33899 |
| Public Notice | 08/23/18 | 83 FR 42630 |
| Public Notice Opposition Period End | 09/17/18 | |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 11/15/18 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 02/04/19 | 84 FR 1409 |
| R&O | 03/08/19 | 84 FR 8457 |
| FNPRM | 03/14/19 | 84 FR 9276 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 04/29/19 | |
| Petition for Recon Request for Comment | 06/18/19 | 84 FR 28264 |
| Petition for Recon Comment Period End | 07/15/19 | |
| R&O | 01/06/20 | 85 FR 462 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 02/19/20 | 85 FR 9392 |
| Final Rule; Removal of Compliance Notes | 05/06/20 | 85 FR 26857 |
| Final Rule; correction | 08/26/20 | 85 FR 52489 |
| R&O and Order on Recon | 10/14/20 | 85 FR 64971 |
| FNPRM | 02/01/21 | 86 FR 7681 |
| Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration | 02/22/21 | 86 FR 10458 |
| NPRM | 03/19/21 | 86 FR 14859 |
| Oppositions Due Date | 03/19/21 | |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 04/02/21 | |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 05/03/21 | |
| Public Notice | 07/15/21 | 86 FR 37328 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 08/09/21 | |
| Report & Order | 09/21/22 | 87 FR 57645 |
| NPRM | 12/08/22 | 87 FR 75199 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/06/23 | |
| Public Notice | 01/31/23 | 88 FR 6220 |
| Public Notice Opposition Period End | 02/27/23 | |
| NPRM | 02/02/23 | 88 FR 7049 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/03/23 | |
| Order on Reconsideration | 02/22/23 | 88 FR 10853 |
| Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date | 03/08/23 | 88 FR 14251 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2235, Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK01
269. Advanced Methods To Target and Eliminate Unlawful Robocalls (CG Docket No. 17-59) [3060-AK62]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 201 and 202; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 251(e)
Abstract: The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 restricts the use of robocalls autodialed or prerecorded calls in certain instances. In CG Docket No. 17-59, the Commission considers rules and policies aimed at eliminating unlawful robocalling. Among the issues it examines in this docket are whether to allow carriers to block calls that purport to be from unallocated or unassigned phone numbers through the use of spoofing, whether to allow carriers to block calls based on their own analyses of which calls are likely to be unlawful and whether to establish a database of reassigned phone numbers to help prevent robocalls to consumers, who did not consent to such calls.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM/NOI | 05/17/17 | 82 FR 22625 |
| 2nd NOI | 07/13/17 | |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 07/31/17 | |
| FNPRM | 01/08/18 | 83 FR 770 |
| R&O | 01/12/18 | 83 FR 1566 |
| 2nd FNPRM | 04/23/18 | 83 FR 17631 |
| 2nd FNPRM Comment Period End | 06/07/18 | |
| 2nd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 07/09/18 | |
| 2nd R&O | 03/26/19 | 84 FR 11226 |
| 3rd FNPRM | 06/24/19 | 84 FR 29478 |
| Declaratory Ruling | 06/24/19 | 84 FR 29387 |
| Public Notice Seeking Input on Report | 12/30/19 | |
| Public Notice Seeking Comment on Reassigned Numbers | 01/24/20 | |
| Public Notice Seeking Comment on RND Cost/Fee Structure | 02/26/20 | |
| Public Notice Establishing Guidelines for RND | 04/16/20 | |
| Report | 06/25/20 | |
| 3rd NPRM Comment Date | 06/26/20 | |
| Announcement of Compliance Dates | 06/26/20 | 85 FR 38334 |
| 3rd R&O, Order of Reconsideration, 4th FNPRM | 07/31/20 | 85 FR 46063 |
| 4th R&O (release date) | 12/30/20 | |
| Public Notice | 02/08/21 | 86 FR 8558 |
| Public Notice | 04/13/21 | |
| Public Notice | 06/15/21 | |
| Public Notice | 10/01/21 | 86 FR 61077 |
| 5th FNPRM | 10/26/21 | 86 FR 59084 |
| Public Notice | 12/29/21 | |
| Order on Reconsideration, 6th FNPRM, Waiver Order | 12/30/21 | 86 FR 74399 |
| Public Notice | 02/08/22 | 87 FR 7044 |
| Seventh Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking | 05/19/22 | 87 FR 42670 |
| Sixth Report and Order | 05/19/22 | 87 FR 42916 |
| Public Notice | 08/24/22 | 87 FR 51920 |
| Public Notice | 11/18/22 | 87 FR 69206 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Karen Schroeder, Associate Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0654, Email: karen.schroeder@fcc.gov.
Jerusha Burnett, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0526, Email: jerusha.burnett@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK62
270. Empowering Broadband Consumers Through Transparency (CG Docket No. 02-278) [3060-AL33]
Legal Authority: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Pub. L. 117-58, 135 Stat. 429, 60504(a) (2021)
Abstract: In this docket, the Commission adopted rules requiring broadband internet access service providers (ISPs) display, at the point of sale, labels to disclose to consumers certain information about prices, introductory rates or promotions, data allowances, broadband speeds, and management practices, among other things.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/07/22 | 87 FR 6827 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/09/22 | |
| Reply NPRM Comment Period End | 03/24/22 | |
| Report & Order and FNPRM | 12/16/22 | 87 FR 77048 |
| Order Comment Period Extended | 01/04/23 | |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 03/16/23 | |
| Petition for Reconsideration | 01/31/23 | 88 FR 6219 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Erica McMahon, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0346, Email: erica.mcmahon@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL33
271. Targeting and Eliminating Unlawful Text Messages, CG Docket 21-403, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking [3060-AL49]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 227(e), 251(e), 303
Abstract: In this docket, the Commission considers rules and policies concerning the ability for mobile wireless service providers to block illegal text messages.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 09/27/22 | 87 FR 61271 |
| Report & Order and FNPRM | 03/17/23 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Mika Savir, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0384, Email: mika.savir@fcc.gov.
[top] RIN: 3060-AL49
272. • Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Relay Service; CG Docket No. 12-38 [3060-AL58]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152 and 154; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 616
Abstract: Title IV of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires the Federal Communications Commission to ensure the availability of telecommunications relay services. IP Relay is a form of TRS that permits an individual with a hearing or a speech disability to communicate in text using an internet Protocol-enabled device via the internet. In CG Docket No. 12-38, the Commission considers rules and policy for the provision of IP Relay, including the process for registering users for IP CTS and the methodology for determining TRS Fund support.The Commission takes these steps to ensure the provision of IP Relay in a functionally equivalent manner to persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf blind or have speech disabilities. In doing so, the Commission balances several different factors including regulating the recovery of costs caused by the service, encouraging the use of existing technology and not discouraging or impairing the development of improved technology, and ensuring IP Relay is available, to the extent possible and in the most efficient manner.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| Public Notice | 02/08/12 | 77 FR 11997 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 03/20/12 | |
| Final Rule | 07/25/12 | 77 FR 43538 |
| Final Rule Effective | 07/25/12 | |
| NPRM | 03/19/21 | 86 FR 14859 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 05/03/21 | |
| Final Rule | 11/25/22 | 87 FR 72409 |
| Final Rule Effective | 12/27/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Attorney Advisor, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1264, Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL58
273. • Compensation for Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service [3060-AL59]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 225
Abstract: Title IV of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires the Federal Communications Commission to ensure the availability of telecommunications relay. Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Services (IP CTS) is a form of relay service designed to allow people with hearing loss to speak directly to another party on a telephone call and to simultaneously listen to the other party and read captions of what that party is saying over an IP-enabled device. In CG Docket No. 22-408, the Commission considers rules and policy for the adoption of a compensation methodology and compensation levels for Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) Fund support of providers of IP CTS.The Commission takes these steps to ensure the provision of IP CTS in a functionally equivalent manner to persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind or have speech disabilities. In doing so, the Commission balances several different factors including regulating the recovery of costs caused by the service, encouraging the use of existing technology and not discouraging or impairing the development of improved technology, and ensuring IP CTS is available, to the extent possible and in the most efficient manner.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/02/23 | 88 FR 7049 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Attorney Advisor, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1264, Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL59
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Economics
Long-Term Actions
274. Development of Nationwide Broadband Data To Evaluate Reasonable and Timely Deployment of Advanced Services to All Americans [3060-AJ15]
Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 252; 47 U.S.C. 257; 47 U.S.C. 271; 47 U.S.C. 1302; 47 U.S.C. 160(b); 47 U.S.C. 161(a)(2)
Abstract: The 09/09/2022 Order ended the collection of broadband deployment data through Form 477. Broadband and voice subscribership data will continue to be submitted through Form 477. Beginning with data as of December 31, 2022 and beyond, Form 477 subscribership data is submitted in the Broadband Data Collection (BDC) filing system. The Form 477 filing system remains open for filers to submit and make corrections to filings through June 30, 2022.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 05/16/07 | 72 FR 27519 |
| Order | 07/02/08 | 73 FR 37861 |
| Order | 10/15/08 | 73 FR 60997 |
| NPRM | 02/08/11 | 76 FR 10827 |
| Order | 06/27/13 | 78 FR 49126 |
| NPRM | 08/24/17 | 82 FR 40118 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/25/17 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 10/10/17 | |
| R&O and FNPRM | 08/22/19 | 84 FR 43764 |
| Order | 12/16/22 | 87 FR 76949 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Suzanne Mendez, Supervisory Program Manager, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0941, Email: suzanne.mendez@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AJ15
275. Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum Through Incentive Auctions (GN Docket No. 12-268) [3060-AJ82]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 309(j)(8)(G); 47 U.S.C. 1452
[top] Abstract: In February 2012, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act was enacted (Pub. L. 112-96, 126 Stat. 156 (2012)). Title VI of that statute, commonly known as the Spectrum Act, provides the Commission with the authority to conduct incentive
The Spectrum Act requires that the BIA consist of a reverse auction "to determine the amount of compensation that each broadcast television licensee would accept in return for voluntarily relinquishing some or all of its spectrum usage rights" and a forward auction of licenses in the reallocated spectrum for flexible-use services, including mobile broadband. Broadcast television licensees who elected to voluntarily participate in the auction had three bidding options: go off-the-air, share spectrum with another broadcast television licensee, or move channels to the upper or lower VHS band in exchange for receiving part of the proceeds from auctioning that spectrum to wireless providers. The Spectrum Act also authorized the Commission to reorganize the 600 MHz band following the BIA including, as necessary, reassigning full power and Class A television stations to new channels in order to clear the spectrum sold in the BIA. That post-auction reorganization (known as the repack) is currently underway and all of the stations who were assigned new channels are scheduled to have vacated their pre-auction channels by July 3, 2020, pursuant to a 10-phase transition schedule adopted by the Commission.
In May 2014, the Commission adopted a Report and Order that laid out the general framework for the BIA. The auction started on March 29, 2016, with the submission of initial commitments by eligible broadcast licensees. The BIA ended on April 13, 2017, with the release of the Auction Closing and Channel Reassignment Public Notice that also marked the start of the 39-month transition period during which 987 of the full power and Class A television stations remaining on-the-air will transition their stations to their post-auction channel assignments in the reorganized television band. Pursuant to the Spectrum Act, the Commission will reimburse 957 of those full power and Class A stations for the reasonable costs associated with relocating to their post-auction channel assignments and will reimburse multichannel video programming distributors for their costs associated with continuing to carry the signals of those stations.
In March 2018, the Consolidated Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 115-141, at Div. E, Title V, 511, 132 Stat. 348 (2018), codified at 47 U.S.C. 1452(j)-(n)) (the Reimbursement Expansion Act or REA), extended the deadline for reimbursement of eligible entities from April 2020 to no later than July 3, 2023, and also expanded the universe of entities eligible for reimbursement to include low-power television stations and TV translator stations displaced by the BIA for their reasonably incurred costs to relocate to a new channel, and FM broadcast stations for their reasonably incurred costs for facilities necessary to reasonably minimize disruption of service as a result of the post-auction reorganization of the television band. On March 15, 2019, the Commission adopted a Report and Order setting rules for the reimbursement of eligible costs to those newly eligible entities.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 11/21/12 | 77 FR 69933 |
| R&O | 08/15/14 | 79 FR 48441 |
| Final Rule | 10/11/17 | 82 FR 47155 |
| NPRM | 08/27/18 | 83 FR 43613 |
| R&O | 03/26/19 | 84 FR 11233 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jean L. Kiddoo, Chair, Incentive Auction Task Force, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7757, Email: jean.kiddoo@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AJ82
276. Broadband Data Collection [3060-AL42]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151-154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 641-646
Abstract: The Commission has long recognized that precise, granular data on the availability of fixed and mobile broadband are vital to bringing digital opportunity to all Americans, no matter where they live, work, or travel.
On March 23, 2020, the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability Act (Broadband DATA Act) was signed into law requiring the Commission to create a new set of broadband availability maps. Among other things, the Broadband DATA Act requires the Commission to collect standardized, granular data on the availability and quality of both fixed and mobile broadband internet access services, to create a common dataset of all locations where fixed broadband internet access service can be installed (the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric or Fabric), and to create publicly available coverage maps. The Act further requires the Commission to establish processes for members of the public and other entities to (1) provide verified data for use in the coverage maps; (2) challenge the coverage maps, the broadband availability data submitted by broadband internet access service providers (providers), and the Fabric; and (3) submit specific crowdsource information about the development and availability of broadband service.
In July 2020, implementing the Broadband DATA Act and building off of an August 2019 Report and Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order and Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that adopted rules for the collection and verification of improved, more precise data on both fixed and mobile broadband availability. In January 2021, the Commission released a Third Report and Order that established new requirements for the BDC and took additional steps to implement the Broadband DATA Act. The Commission adopted rules to specify which fixed and mobile providers are required to report broadband availability data and expanded the reporting and certification requirements for filing data in the BDC. It also adopted standards for collecting verified broadband data from State, local, and Tribal entities and certain third parties, and for identifying locations that would be included in the Fabric. Importantly, in the Third Report and Order, the Commission also established processes for verifying the accuracy of provider-submitted data and the Fabric, including a third party challenge process.
[top] Implementing the Broadband DATA Act and these new rules, the Commission created a complex data platform and system to collect and map availability data collected from over 2500 providers and for consumers and other stakeholders to submit challenges to that data; established the Fabric dataset of locations upon which to overlay provider availability data; and
In July 2021, the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB), Office of Economics and Analytics (OEA), and Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) released a Public Notice seeking comment on the technical requirements for the mobile challenge, verification, and crowdsourcing processes required under the Broadband DATA Act for the new Broadband Data Collection (BDC). In March 2022, the Broadband Data Task Force (Task Force), WTB, OEA, and OET released a detailed order, technical appendix, rules, and technical data specifications setting forth technical requirements and specifications for the mobile challenge, verification, and crowdsource processes required by the Act.
To help facilitate the mobile challenge process, in April 2022, the Task Force and OET issued a Public Notice announcing the technical requirements and procedures for approving third-party mobile speed test procedures for use in collecting and submitting mobile network performance data as part of the BDC. To assist entities that choose to file mobile challenges in bulk, in September 2022 the Task Force and WTB established a process for entities to use their own software and hardware to collect on-the-ground mobile speed test data for use in the BDC mobile challenge process.
Also in April 2022, the Task Force, WCB, WTB, OEA, and OET released a Public Notice providing details on the procedures for state, local, and Tribal governmental entities to submit verified availability data through the BDC system.
Seeking to clarify the Commission's rules for filing data in the BDC, in July 2022 WCB, WTB, OEA, and the Task Force issued a Declaratory Ruling on certain aspects of a rule regarding the engineering certification in BDC filings and issued a limited waiver of the requirement that providers have an engineer certification their biannual BDC filings for the first three filing cycles of the BDC.
On June 15, 2022, the FCC Enforcement Bureau issued an Enforcement Advisory reminding all facilities-based providers of their duty to timely file complete and accurate data in the BDC by September 1, 2022.
In February 2022, the Commission announced the opening of the initial filing window of the BDC would open on June 30, 2022, and was due no later than September 1, 2022. In December 2022, the Commission announced that the second filing window of the BDC would open on January 3, 2023, and required all fixed and mobile providers to submit broadband availability data as of December 31, 2022, and was due no later than March 1, 2023.
In November 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of its new National Broadband Map based on version 1 of the Fabric and the availability data submitted by providers as of June 30, 2022. The new map is the most comprehensive, granular, and standardized data the Commission has ever published on broadband availability.
The Commission adopted an Order in December 2022, to sunset the Form 477 broadband deployment data collection and eliminate a largely duplicative requirement on providers. As a result, providers will no longer be required to submit Form 477 broadband deployment data, but must still submit broadband and voice subscription data using the FCC Form 477; those filers will submit their data through the BDC system.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 08/03/17 | 82 FR 40118 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/25/17 | |
| Report & Order | 08/01/19 | 84 FR 43705 |
| Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking | 08/01/19 | 84 FR 43764 |
| Second Further NPRM Comment Period End | 10/07/19 | |
| 2nd R&O | 07/16/20 | 85 FR 50886 |
| 3rd FNPRM | 07/16/20 | 85 FR 50911 |
| 3rd R&O | 01/13/21 | 86 FR 18124 |
| Public Notice | 07/16/21 | 86 FR 40398 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 09/27/21 | |
| Order | 03/09/22 | 87 FR 21476 |
| Order | 12/16/22 | 87 FR 76949 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Kimia Nikseresht, Legal Advisor, Broadband Data Task Force, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1636, Email: kimia.nikseresht@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL42
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Economics
Completed Actions
277. Universal Service Reform Mobility Fund (WT Docket No. 10-208) [3060-AJ58]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 205; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 303(c); 47 U.S.C. 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 303(y); 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310
Abstract: This proceeding establishes the Mobility Fund, which the Commission is implementing in two phases. Mobility Fund Phase I consisted of two reverse auctions that provided initial infusions of funds toward solving persistent gaps in mobile services through targeted, one-time support for the build-out of current and next-generation wireless infrastructure in areas where these services are unavailable. The Mobility Fund Phase II (MF-II) reverse auction aims to provide support funds over a 10-year term to support build-out of current and next-generation wireless infrastructure in areas where unsubsidized services are unavailable. MF-II began with a one-time collection of existing wireless broadband coverage data from current providers to determine the areas in which qualified service has been deployed, which data was used to create a map of areas presumptively eligible for MF-II support. Entities could challenge asserted unsubsidized 4G LTE coverage through the Mobility Fund Phase II challenge process, and providers may file response data countering challenges. The results of the challenge process will determine the final list of areas eligible for funding for MF-II auction funding. With the advent of 5G technology, the Commission retargeted universal service funding for mobile broadband and voice in the high-cost program to support the deployment of 5G services by establishing the 5G Fund for Rural America, and it therefore closed the Mobility Fund docket.
Timetable:
[top]
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 10/14/10 | 75 FR 67060 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 01/18/11 | |
| R&O | 11/29/11 | 76 FR 73830 |
| FNPRM | 12/16/11 | 76 FR 78384 |
| R&O | 12/28/11 | 76 FR 81562 |
| 2nd R&O | 07/03/12 | 77 FR 39435 |
| 4th Order on Recon | 08/14/12 | 77 FR 48453 |
| FNPRM | 07/09/14 | 79 FR 39196 |
| R&O, Declaratory Ruling, Order, MO&O, and 7th Order on Recon | 07/09/14 | 79 FR 39163 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/08/14 | |
| R&O | 10/07/16 | 81 FR 69696 |
| FNPRM | 10/07/16 | 81 FR 69772 |
| FNPRM | 03/13/17 | 82 FR 13413 |
| R&O | 03/28/17 | 82 FR 15422 |
| R&O Correction | 04/04/17 | 82 FR 16297 |
| Order on Recon and 2nd R&O | 09/08/17 | 82 FR 42473 |
| 2nd Order on Recon | 04/25/18 | 83 FR 17934 |
| Order and MO&O | 08/30/18 | 83 FR 44241 |
| NPRM | 08/30/18 | 83 FR 44254 |
| 3rd R&O | 03/06/19 | 84 FR 8003 |
| NPRM and Order | 06/05/20 | 85 DR 34525 |
| Final Rule | 06/05/20 | 85 FR 34525 |
| Final Rule Effective | 06/05/20 |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Audra Hale-Maddox, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2109, Email: audra.hale-maddox@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AJ58
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Office of Engineering and Technology
Long-Term Actions
278. Unlicensed Operation in the TV Broadcast Bands (ET Docket No. 04-186) [3060-AI52]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303(e) and 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307
Abstract: The Commission adopted rules to allow unlicensed radio transmitters to operate in the broadcast television spectrum at locations where that spectrum is not being used by licensed services. (This unused TV spectrum is often termed "white spaces.") This action will make a significant amount of spectrum available for new and innovative products and services, including broadband data and other services for businesses and consumers. The actions taken are a conservative first step that includes many safeguards to prevent harmful interference to incumbent communications services. Moreover, the Commission will closely oversee the development and introduction of these devices to the market and will take whatever actions may be necessary to avoid and, if necessary, correct any interference that may occur. The Second Memorandum Opinion and Order finalizes rules to make the unused spectrum in the TV bands available for unlicensed broadband wireless devices. This particular spectrum has excellent propagation characteristics that allow signals to reach farther and penetrate walls and other structures. Access to this spectrum could enable more powerful public internet connections-super Wi-Fi hot spots-with extended range, fewer dead spots, and improved individual speeds as a result of reduced congestion on existing networks. This type of "opportunistic use" of spectrum has great potential for enabling access to other spectrum bands and improving spectrum efficiency. The Commission's actions here are expected to spur investment and innovation in applications and devices that will be used not only in the TV band, but eventually in other frequency bands as well. This Order addressed five petitions for reconsideration of the Commission's decisions in the Second Memorandum Opinion and Order ("Second MO&O") in this proceeding and modified rules in certain respects. In particular, the Commission: (1) increased the maximum height above average terrain (HAAT) for sites where fixed devices may operate; (2) modified the adjacent channel emission limits to specify fixed rather than relative levels; and (3) slightly increased the maximum permissible power spectral density (PSD) for each category of TV bands device. These changes will result in decreased operating costs for fixed TVBDs and allow them to provide greater coverage, thus increasing the availability of wireless broadband services in rural and underserved areas without increasing the risk of interference to incumbent services. The Commission also revised and amended several of its rules to better effectuate the Commission's earlier decisions in this docket and to remove ambiguities.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/18/04 | 69 FR 34103 |
| First R&O | 11/17/06 | 71 FR 66876 |
| FNPRM | 11/17/06 | 71 FR 66897 |
| R&O and MO&O | 02/17/09 | 74 FR 7314 |
| Petitions for Reconsideration | 04/13/09 | 74 FR 16870 |
| Second MO&O | 12/06/10 | 75 FR 75814 |
| Petitions for Reconsideration | 02/09/11 | 76 FR 7208 |
| 2 Order on Reconsideration, FNPRM, and Order | 05/17/12 | 77 FR 29236 |
| FNPRM-Proposed Rule | 06/01/22 | 87 FR 33109 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7506, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AI52
279. Use of the 5.850-5.925 GHz Band; (ET Docket No. 19-138), FCC 19-129 [3060-AK96]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 1; 47 U.S.C. 4(i); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 CFR 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, we repurpose 45 megahertz of the 5.850-5.925 GHz band (the 5.9 GHz band) to allow for the expansion of unlicensed mid-band spectrum operations, while continuing to dedicate 30 megahertz of spectrum for vital intelligent transportation system (ITS) operations. In addition, to promote the most efficient and effective use of this ITS spectrum, we are requiring the ITS service to use cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) based technology at the end of a transition period. By splitting the 5.9 GHz band between unlicensed and ITS uses, today's decision puts the 5.9 GHz band in the best position to serve the needs of the American public.
In the Further Notice, the Commission addresses issues remaining to finalize the restructuring of the 5.9 GHz band. Specifically, the Commission addresses: The transition of ITS operations in the 5.895-5.925 GHz band from Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) based technology to Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) based technology; the codification of C-V2X technical parameters in the Commission's rules; other transition considerations; and the transmitter power and emissions limits, and other issues, related to full-power outdoor unlicensed operations across the entire 5.850-5.895 GHz portion of the 5.9 GHz band. The Commission modified the Further Notice released on November 20, 2020, with an Erratum released on December 11, 2020. The Commission released a Second Erratum on February 9, 2021. The corrections from these errata are included in this document.
[top] Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/06/20 | 85 FR 6841 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/09/20 | |
| FNPRM | 05/03/21 | 86 FR 23323 |
| R&O & Order of Proposed Modification | 05/03/21 | 86 FR 23281 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Howard Griboff, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0657, Fax: 202 418-2824, Email: howard.griboff@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK96
280. Unlicensed White Space Device Operations in the Television Bands (ET Docket No. 20-36) [3060-AL22]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 302a; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 1.407 and 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission revises its rules to provide additional opportunities for unlicensed white space devices operating in the broadcast television bands (TV bands) to deliver wireless broadband services in rural areas and applications associated with the Internet of Things (IoT). This region of the spectrum has excellent propagation characteristics that make it particularly attractive for delivering communications services over long distances, coping with variations in terrain, as well as providing coverage into and within buildings. We offer several proposals to spur continued growth of the white space device ecosystem, especially for providing affordable broadband service to rural and underserved communities that can help close the digital divide.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 04/03/20 | 85 FR 18901 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/03/20 | |
| Report & Order | 01/12/21 | 86 FR 2278 |
| R&O-Final Rule | 01/12/21 | 86 FR 2278 |
| FNPRM-Proposed Rule | 02/25/21 | 86 FR 11490 |
| 2nd Order on Recon, FNPRM, and Order | 06/01/22 | 87 FR 33109 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7506, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL22
281. Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain Through the Equipment Authorization and Competitive Bidding Programs; ET Docket No. 21-232, EA Docket No. 21-233 [3060-AL23]
Legal Authority: Secs. 4(i), 301, 302, 303, 309(j), 312, and 316 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. secs. 154(i), 301, 302a, 303, 309(j), 312, 316, and sec. 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission proposes prohibiting the authorization of any communications equipment on the list of equipment and services (Covered List) that the Commission maintains pursuant to the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019. Such equipment has been found to pose an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of United States persons. We also seek comment on whether and under what circumstances we should revoke any existing authorizations of such covered communications equipment. We invite comment on whether we should require additional certifications relating to national security from applicants who wish to participate in Commission auctions. In the Notice of Inquiry, we seek comment on other actions the Commission should consider taking to create incentives in its equipment authorization processes for improved trust through the adoption of cybersecurity best practices in consumer devices.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM and NOI | 08/19/21 | 86 FR 46644 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/20/21 | |
| Report & Order and FNPRM | 11/25/22 | |
| FNPRM-Proposed Rule | 03/08/23 | 88 FR 14312 |
| Report & Order-Final Rule | 02/06/23 | 88 FR 7592 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jamie Coleman, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2705, Email: jaime.coleman@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL23
282. Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands (ET Docket No. 21-115), 600 MHz Guard Band, 600 MHz Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz [3060-AL27]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. secs. 154(i), 201, 302a, 303, and secs. 1.407 and 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to enhance the spectral efficiency of wireless microphones by permitting a recently developed type of wireless microphone system, termed herein as a Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System (WMAS), to operate in certain frequency bands. This emerging technology would enable more wireless microphones to operate in the spectrum available for wireless microphone operations, and thus advances an important Commission goal of promoting efficient spectrum use. The Commission proposes to revise the applicable technical rules for operation of low-power auxiliary station (LPAS) devices to permit WMAS to operate in the broadcast television (TV) bands and other LPAS frequency bands on a licensed basis. The Commission also proposes to update the existing LPAS and wireless microphone rules to reflect the end of the post-Incentive auction transition period and update references to international wireless microphone standards.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 07/01/21 | 86 FR 35046 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 08/02/21 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7506, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL27
283. FCC Seeks To Enable State-of-the-Art Radar Sensors in 60 GHz Band (ET Docket No. 21-264) [3060-AL36]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 201, 302a, 303, and secs. 1.407 and 1.411
[top] Abstract: In this preceding, the Commission proposes to revise the Commission's rules to provide expanded operational flexibility to
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 08/19/21 | 86 FR 46661 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 10/18/21 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Anh Wride, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0577, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: anh.wride@fcc.gov.
Thomas Struble, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2470, Email: thomas.struble@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL36
284. FCC Proposes To Update Equipment Authorization Rules To Incorporate New and Revised Industry Standards, (ET Docket No. 21-363) [3060-AL39]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 301, 302a, 303, and secs. 1.407 and 1.411
Abstract: We propose targeted updates to our rules to incorporate four new and updated standards that are integral to the testing of equipment and accreditation of laboratories that test RF devices.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 03/17/22 | 87 FR 15180 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/16/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brian Butler, Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2702, Email: brian.butler@fcc.gov.
RIN : 3060-AL39
285. Allocation of Spectrum for Non-Federal Space Launch Operations (ET Docket No. 13-115) [3060-AL44]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151. 152, 154(i), 155(c), 301, 303(c), 303(f), and 303(r)
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) takes steps towards establishing a spectrum allocation and licensing framework that will provide regulatory certainty and improved efficiency and that will promote innovation and investment in the United States commercial space launch industry. In the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission seeks comment on the definition of space launch operations, the potential allocation of spectrum for the commercial space launch industry, including the 420-430 MHz, 2025-2110 MHz, and 5650-5925 MHz bands. In addition, the Commission seeks comment on establishing service rules, including licensing and technical rules and coordination procedures, for the use of spectrum for commercial space launch operations. Finally, the Commission seeks to refresh the record on potential ways to facilitate Federal use of commercial satellite services in what are currently non-Federal satellite bands and enable more robust federal use of the 399.9-400.05 MHz band.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM and NOI | 07/01/13 | 78 FR 39200 |
| FNPRM-Proposed Rule | 06/10/21 | 86 FR 30860 |
| Report & Order-Final Rule | 06/28/21 | 86 FR 33902 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Nicholas Oros, Supervisory Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0636, Email: nicholas.oros@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL44
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
International Bureau
Long-Term Actions
286. Update to Parts 2 and 25 Concerning Nongeostationary, Fixed-Satellite Service Systems, and Related Matters: IB Docket No. I6-408 [3060-AK59]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: On January 11, 2017, the Commission began a rulemaking to update its rules and policies concerning non-geostationary-satellite orbit (NGSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS) systems and related matters. The Commission proposed among other things, to provide for more flexible use of the 17.8-20.2 GHz bands for FSS, promote shared use of spectrum among NGSO FSS satellite systems, and remove unnecessary design restrictions on NGSO FSS systems. The Commission subsequently adopted a Report and Order establishing new sharing criteria among NGSO FSS systems and providing additional flexibility for FSS spectrum use. The Commission also released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to remove the domestic coverage requirement for NGSO FSS systems and later adopted a Second Report and Order removing this requirement.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/11/17 | 82 FR 3258 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/10/17 | |
| FNPRM | 11/15/17 | 82 FR 52869 |
| R&O | 12/18/17 | 82 FR 59972 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 01/02/18 | |
| 2nd R&O | 02/21/21 | 86 FR 11642 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0803, Email: clay.decell@fcc.gov.
[top] RIN: 3060-AK59
287. Amendment of Parts 2 and 25 of the FCC Rules To Facilitate the Use of Earth Stations in Motion Communicating With Geostationary Orbit Space Stations in FSS Bands: IB Docket No. 17-95 [3060-AK84]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: In June 2017, the Commission began a rulemaking to streamline, consolidate, and harmonize rules governing earth stations in motion (ESIMs) used to provide satellite-based services on ships, airplanes and vehicles communicating with geostationary-satellite orbit (GSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS) satellite systems. In September 2018, the Commission adopted rules governing communications of ESIMs with GSO satellites. These rules addressed communications in the conventional C-, Ku-, and Ka-bands, as well as portions of the extended Ku-band. At the same time, the Commission also released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that sought comment on allowing ESIMs to operate in all of the frequency bands in which earth stations at fixed locations operating in GSO FSS satellite networks can be blanket-licensed. Specifically, comment was sought on expanding the frequencies available for communications of ESIMs with GSO FSS satellites to include the following frequency bands: 10.7-10.95 GHz, 11.2-11.45 GHz, 17.8-18.3 GHz, 18.8-19.3 GHz, 19.3-19.4 GHz, 19.6-19.7 GHz (space-to-Earth); and 28.6-29.1 GHz (Earth-to-space).
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/16/17 | 82 FR 27652 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 08/30/17 | |
| OMB-approval for Information Collection of R&O Comment Period End | 08/28/18 | |
| FNPRM | 07/24/20 | 85 FR 44818 |
| R&O | 07/24/20 | 85 FR 44772 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/22/20 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Cindy Spiers, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1593, Email: cindy.spiers@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK84
288. Facilitating the Communications of Earth Stations in Motion With Non-Geostationary Orbit Space Stations: IB Docket No. 18-315 [3060-AK89]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: In November 2018, the Commission adopted a notice of proposed rulemaking that proposed to expand the scope of the Commission's rules governing ESIMs operations to cover communications with NGSO FSS satellites. Comment was sought on establishing a regulatory framework for communications of ESIMs with NGSO FSS satellites that would be analogous to that which exists for ESIMs communicating with GSO FSS satellites. In this context, comment was sought on: (1) allowing ESIMs to communicate in many of the same conventional Ku-band, extended Ku-band, and Ka-band frequencies that were allowed for communications of ESIMs with GSO FSS satellites (with the exception of the 18.6-18.8 GHz and 29.25-29.5 GHz frequency bands); (2) extending blanket licensing to ESIMs communicating with NGSO satellites; and (3) revisions to specific provisions in the Commission's rules to implement these changes. The specific frequency bands for communications of ESIMs with NGOS FSS satellites on which comment was sought are as follows: 10.7-11.7 GHz; 11.7-12.2 GHz; 14.0-14.5 GHz; 17.8-18.3 GHz; 18.3-18.6 GHz; 18.8-19.3 GHz; 19.3-19.4 GHz; 19.6-19.7 GHz; 19.7-20.2 GHz; 28.35-28.6 GHz; 28.6-29.1 GHz; and 29.5-30.0 GHz.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 12/28/18 | 83 FR 67180 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/13/19 | |
| R&O | 07/24/20 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Cindy Spiers, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1593, Email: cindy.spiers@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK89
289. Space Innovation; Mitigation of Orbital Debris in the New Space Age: IB Docket Nos. 18-313, 22-271 [3060-AK90]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 308; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 605; 47 U.S.C. 721
Abstract: The Commission's current orbital debris rules were first adopted in 2004. Since then, significant changes have occurred in satellite technologies and market conditions, particularly in Low Earth Orbit, i.e., below 2000 kilometers altitude. These changes include the increasing use of lower cost small satellites and proposals to deploy large constellations of non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) systems, some involving thousands of satellites.
The NPRM proposes changes to improve disclosure of debris mitigation plans. The NPRM also makes proposals and seeks comment related to satellite disposal reliability and methodology, appropriate deployment altitudes in low-Earth-orbit, and on-orbit lifetime, with a particular focus on large NGSO satellite constellations. Other aspects of the NPRM include new rule proposals for geostationary orbit satellite (GSO) license term extension requests, and consideration of disclosure requirements related to several emerging technologies and new types of commercial operations, including rendezvous and proximity operations.
The Report and Order in this proceeding adopted a number of these proposals. In addition a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking sought comment on topics such as collision risk and casualty risk for multi-satellite systems, de-orbit timelines, maneuverability requirements, and indemnification and post mission disposal bond issues. The Commission issued a Second Report and Order adopting a 5-year de-orbit timeframe for satellites ending their missions in or passing through the low-Earth Orbit region.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/19/19 | 84 FR 4742 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 05/06/19 | |
| R&O | 08/25/20 | 85 FR 52422 |
| FNPRM | 08/25/20 | 85 FR 52455 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 10/09/20 | |
| Second R&O | 09/29/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
[top] Agency Contact: Alexandra Horn, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1376, Email: alexandra.horn@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK90
290. Process Reform for Executive Branch Review of Certain FCC Applications and Petitions Involving Foreign Ownership (IB Docket No. 16-155) [3060-AL12]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(l); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 413; 47 U.S.C. 34-39; E.O. 10530; 3 U.S.C. 301
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission considers rules and procedures that streamline and improve the timeliness and transparency of the process by which the Commission refers certain applications and petitions for declaratory ruling to the Executive Branch agencies for assessment of any national security, law enforcement, foreign policy or trade policy issues related to foreign investment in the applicants and petitioners. The Commission, in this proceeding, also adopted Standard Questions that certain applicants with reportable foreign ownership will be required to answer as part of the Executive Branch review process of their applications.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/24/16 | 81 FR 46870 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/02/16 | |
| Public Notice | 04/27/20 | 85 FR 29914 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 09/02/20 | |
| Report & Order | 10/01/20 | 85 FR 76360 |
| Public Notice | 12/30/20 | 85 FR 12312 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 04/19/21 | |
| Secord Report and Order Adopted | 09/30/21 | 86 FR 68428 |
| Second R&O Released | 10/01/21 | 86 FR 68428 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Arthur T. Lechtman, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1465, Fax: 202 418-0175, Email: arthur.lechtman@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL12
291. Parts 2 and 25 To Enable GSO FSS in the 17.3-17.8 GHz Band, Modernize Rules for 17/24 GHz BSS Space Stations, and Establish Off-Axis Uplink Power Limits for Extended Ka-Band FSS (IB Doc. No. 20-330) [3060-AL28]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 309(j)
Abstract: This item addresses the addition of an allocation in the 17.3-17.7 GHz and 17.7-17.8 GHz bands to the fixed-satellite service in the space-to-Earth direction. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposes to add these allocations to the U.S. Table of Frequency Allocations (non-Federal), and proposes modification of existing technical rules to prevent harmful interference between services in these bands.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/01/21 | 86 FR 7660 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/03/21 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 03/18/21 | |
| R&O | 09/03/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Stephanie Neville, Attorney Advisor, International Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1672, Email: stephanie.neville@fcc.gov.
Sean O'More, Attorney Advisor, International Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 245 418-2453, Email: sean.omore@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL28
292. Revising Spectrum Sharing Rules for Non-Geostationary Orbit, Fixed-Satellite Service Systems: IB Docket No. 21-456 [3060-AL41]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) seeks comment on revisions to the spectrum sharing requirements among non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS) systems. The NPRM proposes that the Commission's existing spectrum sharing mechanism for NGSO FSS systems will be limited to those systems approved in the same processing round. The NPRM also proposes to adopt a rule providing that later-round NGSO FSS systems will have to protect earlier-round systems, and invites comment on how to define such protection. In addition, the NPRM seeks comment on whether to sunset, after a period of time, the interference protection afforded to an NGSO FSS system because of its processing round status.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/24/22 | 87 FR 3481 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/25/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0803, Email: clay.decell@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL41
293. • Expediting Initial Processing of Satellite and Earth Station Applications; Space Innovation (IB Docket Nos. 22-411 AND 22-271) [3060-AL51]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and 308(b)
Abstract: In December 2022, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to seek comment on changes to its rules, policies, or practices to facilitate the acceptance for filing of satellite and earth station applications under 47 CFR part 25. The Commission proposed to revise a procedural rule to formally allow consideration of satellite for applications and petitions that request waiver of the Table of Frequency Allocations to operate in a frequency band without an international allocation. The Commission also sought comment on typical processing timeframes for satellite applications.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/17/23 | 88 FR 2590 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/03/23 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
[top] Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0803, Email: clay.decell@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL51
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Media Bureau
Long-Term Actions
294. Revision of EEO Rules and Policies (MM Docket No. 98-204) [3060-AH95]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 257; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 334; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 554
Abstract: FCC authority to govern Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) responsibilities of cable television operators was codified in the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984. This authority was extended to television broadcast licensees and other multi-channel video programming distributors (MVPDs) in the Cable and Television Consumer Protection Act of 1992. In the Second Report and Order, the FCC adopted new EEO rules and policies. This action was in response to a decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit that found prior EEO rules unconstitutional. The Third Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) requested comment as to the applicability of the EEO rules to part-time employees. The Third Report and Order adopted revised forms for broadcast station and MVPD Annual Employment Reports. The 2021 NPRM sought to update the existing record.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/14/02 | 67 FR 1704 |
| Second R&O and Third NPRM | 01/07/03 | 68 FR 670 |
| Correction | 01/13/03 | 68 FR 1657 |
| Fourth NPRM | 06/23/04 | 69 FR 34986 |
| Third R&O | 06/23/04 | 69 FR 34950 |
| FNPRM | 08/31/21 | 86 FR 48610 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/30/21 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov.
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2757, Email: brendan.holland@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AH95
295. Establishment of Rules for Digital Low-Power Television, Television Translator, and Television Booster Stations (MB Docket No. 03-185) [3060-AI38]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 336
Abstract: This proceeding initiated the digital television conversion for low-power television (LPTV) and television translator stations. The rules and policies adopted as a result of this proceeding provide the framework for these stations' conversion from analog to digital broadcasting.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 09/26/03 | 68 FR 55566 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 11/25/03 | |
| R&O | 11/29/04 | 69 FR 69325 |
| FNPRM and MO&O | 10/18/10 | 75 FR 63766 |
| 2nd R&O | 07/07/11 | 76 FR 44821 |
| 3rd NPRM | 11/28/14 | 79 FR 70824 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 12/29/14 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 01/12/15 | |
| 3rd R&O | 02/01/16 | 81 FR 5041 |
| 4th NPRM | 02/01/16 | 81 FR 5086 |
| Comment Period End | 02/22/16 | |
| NPRM | 12/23/19 | 84 FR 70489 |
| 5th NPRM | 06/17/22 | 87 FR 36440 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Shaun Maher, Attorney, Video Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L. Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2324, Fax: 202 418-2827, Email: shaun.maher@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AI38
296. Authorizing Permissive Use of the "Next Generation" Broadcast Television Standard (GN Docket No. 16-142) [3060-AK56]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 325(b); 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 399(b); 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 534; 47 U.S.C. 535
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to authorize television broadcasters to use the "Next Generation" ATSC 3.0 broadcast television transmission standard on a voluntary, market-driven basis, while they continue to deliver current-generation digital television broadcast service to their viewers. In the Report and Order, the Commission adopted rules to afford broadcasters flexibility to deploy ATSC 3.0-based transmissions, while minimizing the impact on, and costs to, consumers and other industry stakeholders.
In the 2nd R&O, the Commission provided additional guidance to broadcasters deploying Next Gen TV.
In 2021, the Commission made a technical modification to the rules governing the use of a distribution transmission system by a television station to account for deployment of ATSC 3.0. Further, the Commission released an FNPRM that sought comment on rule changes designed to preserve over-the-air viewers access to the widest possible range of television programming. The 3rd FNPRM sought comment on the state of the Next Gen TV transition.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 03/10/17 | 82 FR 13285 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 05/09/17 | |
| FNPRM | 12/20/17 | 82 FR 60350 |
| R&O | 02/02/18 | 83 FR 4998 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 02/20/18 | |
| FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 03/20/18 | |
| NPRM | 05/13/20 | 85 FR 28586 |
| 2nd R&O Order on Recon | 07/17/20 | 85 FR 43478 |
| Report & Order | 04/22/21 | 86 FR 21217 |
| FNPRM | 12/13/21 | 86 FR 70793 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 02/11/22 | |
| 3rd FNPRM | 07/07/22 | 87 FR 40464 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Ty Bream, Attorney Advisor, Industry Analysis Div., Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0644, Email: ty.bream@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK56
297. 2018 Quadrennial Regulatory Review of the Commission's Broadcast Ownership Rules (MB Docket 18-349) [3060-AK77]
[top] Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152(a); 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 257; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309 and 310; 47 U.S.C. 403; sec. 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act
Abstract: Section 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires the Commission to review its broadcast ownership rules every 4 years and to determine whether any such rules are necessary in the public interest as the result of competition. The rules subject to review in the 2018 quadrennial review are the Local Radio Ownership Rule, the Local Television Ownership Rule, and the Dual Network Rule. The Commission also sought comment on potential pro-diversity proposals including extending cable procurement requirements to broadcasters, adopting formulas aimed at creating media ownership limits that promote diversity, and developing a model for market-based, tradeable diversity credits to serve as an alternative method for setting ownership limits.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/28/19 | 84 FR 6741 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov.
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2757, Email: brendan.holland@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK77
298. Equal Employment Opportunity Enforcement (MB Docket 19-177) [3060-AK86]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 334; 47 U.S.C. 554
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks comment on ways in which it can make improvements to equal employment opportunity (EEO) compliance and enforcement.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 07/22/19 | 84 FR 35063 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, IAD, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK86
299. Duplication of Programming on Commonly Owned Radio Stations (MB Docket No. 19-310) [3060-AL19]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j) and 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission eliminated the radio duplication rule. The rule bars same-service (AM or FM) commercial radio stations from duplicating more than 25% of their total hours of programming in an average broadcast week if the stations have 50% or more contour overlap and are commonly owned or subject to a time brokerage agreement. Petitions for reconsideration are pending.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 12/23/19 | 84 FR 70485 |
| Report & Order | 10/22/20 | 85 FR 67303 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov.
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2757, Email: brendan.holland@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL19
300. Sponsorship Identification Requirements for Foreign Government-Provided Programming (MB Docket No. 20-299) [3060-AL20]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 154 ; 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 309 ; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 334; 47 U.S.C. 336 and 339
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission modifies its rules to require specific disclosure requirements for broadcast programming that is paid for, or provided by a foreign government or its representative.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 11/24/20 | 85 FR 74955 |
| R&O | 06/17/21 | 86 FR 32221 |
| Second NPRM | 11/17/22 | 87 FR 68960 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, IAD, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL20
301. FM Broadcast Booster Stations (MB Docket 20-401) [3060-AL21]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154 and 157; 47 U.S.C. 301 to 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 319; 47 U.S.C. 324
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission proposes to amend its rules to enable FM broadcasters to use FM booster stations to air geo-targeted content ( e.g., news, weather, and advertisements) independent of the signals of its primary station within different portions of the primary station's protected service contour for a limited period of time during the broadcast hour.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/11/21 | 86 FR 1909 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Al Shuldiner, Chief, Audio Div., Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2700, Email: albert.shuldiner@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL21
302. • Amendment of Part 73 Rules To Update Television and Class A Television Broadcast Station Rules, and Rules Applicable to All Broadcast Stations (MB Docket No. 22-227) [3060-AL50]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 154; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 308; 47 U.S.C. 309 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 319; 47 U.S.C. 336
[top] Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission proposes to adopt revisions to rules in part 0, part 27, subparts E, H, I, J, and L of part 73, and certain parts of parts 74 and 90 in light of the fact that all television services have ceased analog operations. The Commission proposes to eliminate entire rules and
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 02/09/23 | 88 FR 8636 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Joyce Bernstein, Attorney Advisor, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1647, Email: joyce.bernstein@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AL50
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Office of Managing Director
Long-Term Actions
303. Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees [3060-AK64]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 159
Abstract: Section 9 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (47 U.S.C. 159), requires the Federal Communications Commission to recover the cost of its activities by assessing and collecting annual regulatory fees from beneficiaries of the activities.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/06/17 | 82 FR 26019 |
| R&O | 09/22/17 | 82 FR 44322 |
| NPRM | 06/14/18 | 83 FR 27846 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 06/21/18 | |
| R&O | 09/18/18 | 83 FR 47079 |
| NPRM | 06/05/19 | 84 FR 26234 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 06/07/19 | |
| R&O | 09/26/19 | 84 FR 50890 |
| NPRM | 05/08/20 | 85 FR 32256 |
| R&O | 06/22/20 | 85 FR 37364 |
| NPRM | 05/13/21 | 86 FR 26262 |
| R&O | 05/17/21 | 86 FR 26677 |
| NPRM | 09/21/21 | 86 FR 52429 |
| R&O | 09/22/21 | 86 FR 52742 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 10/21/21 | |
| NPRM | 06/28/22 | 87 FR 38588 |
| Report & Order | 09/14/22 | 87 FR 56494 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roland Helvajian, Office of the Managing Director, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0444, Email: roland.helvajian@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK64
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau
Long-Term Actions
304. Wireless E911 Location Accuracy Requirements: PS Docket No. 07-114 [3060-AJ52]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 332
Abstract: This rulemaking is related to the proceedings in which the FCC previously acted to improve the quality of all emergency services. Wireless carriers must provide specific automatic location information in connection with 911 emergency calls to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). Wireless licensees must satisfy enhanced 911 location accuracy standards at either a county-based or a PSAP-based geographic level.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/20/07 | 72 FR 33948 |
| R&O | 02/14/08 | 73 FR 8617 |
| Public Notice | 09/25/08 | 73 FR 55473 |
| FNPRM; NOI | 11/02/10 | 75 FR 67321 |
| Public Notice | 11/18/09 | 74 FR 59539 |
| 2nd R&O | 11/18/10 | 75 FR 70604 |
| Second NPRM | 08/04/11 | 76 FR 47114 |
| Second NPRM Comment Period End | 11/02/11 | |
| Final Rule | 04/28/11 | 76 FR 23713 |
| NPRM, 3rd R&O, and 2nd FNPRM | 09/28/11 | 76 FR 59916 |
| 3rd FNPRM | 03/28/14 | 79 FR 17820 |
| Order Extending Comment Period | 06/10/14 | 79 FR 33163 |
| 3rd FNPRM Comment Period End | 07/14/14 | |
| Public Notice (Release Date) | 11/20/14 | |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 12/17/14 | |
| 4th R&O | 03/04/15 | 80 FR 11806 |
| Final Rule | 08/03/15 | 80 FR 45897 |
| Order Granting Waiver | 07/10/17 | |
| NPRM | 09/26/18 | 83 FR 54180 |
| 4th NPRM | 03/18/19 | 84 FR 13211 |
| 5th R&O | 01/16/20 | 85 FR 2660 |
| 5th NPRM | 01/16/20 | 85 FR 2683 |
| 5th NPRM Comment Period End | 03/16/20 | |
| 6th R&O and Order on Recon | 08/28/20 | 85 FR 53234 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy & Licensing Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2062, Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AJ52
305. Improving Outage Reporting for Submarine Cables and Enhancing Submarine Cable Outage Data; GN Docket No. 15-206 [3060-AK39]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 34 to 39; 47 U.S.C. 301
Abstract: This proceeding takes steps toward assuring the reliability and resiliency of submarine cables, a critical piece of the Nation's communications infrastructure, by proposing to require submarine cable licensees to report to the Commission when outages occur and communications are disrupted. The Commission's intent is to enhance national security and emergency preparedness by these actions. In December 2019, the Commission adopted an Order on Reconsideration that modifies the requirement for submarine cable licensees to report outages to the Commission.
[top] Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM (Release Date) | 09/18/15 | |
| R&O | 06/24/16 | 81 FR 52354 |
| Petitions for Recon | 09/08/16 | |
| Petitions for Recon-Public Comment | 10/17/16 | 81 FR 75368 |
| Order on Recon | 12/20/19 | 84 FR 15733 |
| PRA Approval for new collection | 03/25/21 | |
| Public Notice re effective date | 04/28/21 | |
| Compliance Date for New Rules | 10/28/21 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Scott Cinnamon, Attorney-Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2319, Email: scott.cinnamon@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK39
306. Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications: (PS Docket No. 15-80, 18-336, 23-5) [3060-AK40]
Legal Authority: sec. 1, 4(i), 4(j), 4(o), 251(e)(3), 254, 301, 303(b), 303(g), 303(r), 307, 309(a), 309(j); 316, 332, 403, 615a-1, and 615c of Pub. L. 73-416, 4 Stat. 1064, as amended; and sec. 706 of Pub. L. 104-104, 110 Stat. 56; 47 U.S.C. 151, 154(i)-(j) & (o), 251(e)(3), 254, 301, 303(b), 303(g), 303(r), 307; 309(a), 309(j), 316, 332, 403, 615a-1, 615c, and 1302, unless otherwise noted
Abstract: The 2004 Report and Order (R&O) extended the Commission's communication disruptions reporting rules to non-wireline carriers and streamlined reporting through a new electronic template (see docket ET Docket 04-35). In 2015, this proceeding, PS Docket 15-80, was opened to amend the original communications disruption reporting rules from 2004 in order to reflect technology transitions observed throughout the telecommunications sector. The Commission seeks to further study the possibility to share the reporting database information and access with State and other Federal entities. In May 2016, the Commission released a Report and Order, FNPRM, and Order on Reconsideration (see also Dockets 11-82 and 04-35). The R&O adopted rules to update the part 4 requirements to reflect technology transitions. The FNPRM sought comment on sharing information in the reporting database. Comments and replies were received by the Commission in August and September 2016.
In March 2020, the Commission adopted a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in PS Docket No. 15-80 that proposed a framework to provide state and federal agencies with access to outage information to improve their situational awareness while preserving the confidentiality of this data, including proposals to: provide direct, read-only access to NORS and DIRS filings to qualified agencies of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Tribal nations, territories, and federal government; allow these agencies to share NORS and DIRS information with other public safety officials that reasonably require NORS and DIRS information to prepare for and respond to disasters; allow participating agencies to publicly disclose NORS or DIRS filing information that is aggregated and anonymized across at least four service providers; condition a participating agency's direct access to NORS and DIRS filings on their agreement to treat the filings as confidential and not disclose them absent a finding by the Commission that allows them to do so; and establish an application process that would grant agencies access to NORS and DIRS after those agencies certify to certain requirements related to maintaining confidentiality of the data and the security of the databases. In March 2021, the Commission adopted the proposed information sharing framework with some modifications in a Second Report and Order. In April 2021, in a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposed to codify a rule adopted in 2016 that exempts satellite and terrestrial wireless providers from reporting outages that potentially affect special offices and facilities, as defined in Commission rules. This proceeding addresses the Commission's efforts to improve the utility of its efforts to track network outages and disruptions and does not promote the administration's specified priorities.
In May 2021, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) filed a Petition for Reconsideration (PFR) requesting that the Commission reconsider its decision in the Second Report and Order to maintain the presumption of confidentiality applied to NORS and DIRS filings. The Commission sought comment on the PFR's requests.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM, 2nd R&O, Order on Recon | 06/16/15 | 80 FR 34321 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 07/31/15 | |
| R&O | 07/12/16 | 81 FR 45055 |
| FNPRM, 1 Part 4 R&O, Order on Recon | 08/11/16 | 81 FR 45059 |
| Order Denying Reply Comment Deadline Extension Request | 09/08/16 | |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/12/16 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date for Rule Changes in R&O | 06/22/17 | 82 FR 28410 |
| Announcement of Effective Date for Rule Changes in R&O | 06/22/17 | 82 FR 28410 |
| Second Further NPRM | 02/28/20 | 85 FR 17818 |
| Second Further NPRM Comment Period End | 06/01/20 | |
| 2nd R&O | 04/29/21 | 86 FR 22796 |
| 3rd NPRM | 06/30/21 | 86 FR 34679 |
| CPUC PFR Comment Period End | 08/23/21 | 86 FR 40801 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7790, Email: logan.bennett@fcc.gov .
Saswat Misra, Attorney-Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0944, Email: saswat.misra@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK40
307. New Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; ET Docket No. 04-35 [3060-AK41]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154 and 155; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 316
[top] Abstract: The proceeding creates a new part 4 in title 47 and amends part 63.100. The proceeding updates the Commission's communication disruptions reporting rules for wireline providers formerly in 47 CFR 63.100 and extends these rules to other non-wireline providers. Through this
In May 2016, the Commission released a Report and Order, FNPRM, and Order on Reconsideration (see Dockets 11-82 and 15-80). The Order on Reconsideration addressed outage reporting for events at airports, and the FNPRM sought comment on database sharing. The Commission received comments and replies in August and September 2016.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 03/26/04 | 69 FR 15761 |
| R&O | 11/26/04 | 69 FR 68859 |
| Denial for Petition for Partial Stay | 12/02/04 | |
| Seek Comment on Petition for Recon | 02/02/10 | |
| Reply Period End | 03/19/10 | |
| Seek Comment on Broadband and Interconnected VOIP Service Providers | 07/02/10 | |
| Reply Period End | 08/16/12 | |
| 2nd R&O, and Order on Recon, NPRM | 06/16/15 | 80 FR 34321 |
| R&O | 07/12/16 | 81 FR 45055 |
| FNPRM, 1 Part 4 R&O, Order on Recon | 08/11/16 | 81 FR 45095, 81 FR 45055 |
| Order Denying Extension of Time to File Reply Comments | 09/08/16 | |
| Announcement of Effective Date for Rule Changes in R&O | 06/22/17 | 82 FR 28410 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7790, Email: logan.bennett@fcc.gov .
Saswat Misra, Attorney-Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0944, Email: saswat.misra@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK41
308. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): PS Docket No. 15-91, 15-94, 22-329 [3060-AK54]
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 109-347, title VI; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i)
Abstract: This proceeding was initiated to improve Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) messaging, ensure that WEA alerts reach only those individuals to whom they are relevant, and establish an end-to-end testing program based on advancements in technology.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 11/19/15 | 80 FR 77289 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 01/13/16 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 02/12/16 | |
| Order | 11/01/16 | 81 FR 75710 |
| FNPRM | 11/08/16 | 81 FR 78539 |
| Comment Period End | 12/08/16 | |
| Petition for Recon | 12/19/16 | 81 FR 91899 |
| Order on Recon | 12/04/17 | 82 FR 57158 |
| 2nd R&O and 2nd Order on Recon | 02/28/18 | 83 FR 8619 |
| Public Notice | 04/26/18 | 83 FR 18257 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 05/29/18 | |
| Public Notice Reply Comment Period End | 06/11/18 | |
| FNPRM | 05/20/22 | 87 FR 30857 |
| NPRM | 10/27/22 | 87 FR 71539 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James Wiley, Deputy Division Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1678, Email: james.wiley@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK54
309. 911 Fee Diversion Rulemaking: PS Docket Nos. 20-291, 09-14 [3060-AL31]
Legal Authority: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, Pub. L. 116-260, Division FF, title 1X, sec. 902, Don't Break Up the T-Band Act of 2020 (sec. 902)
Abstract: In 2020, Congress adopted the "Don't Break Up the T-Band Act" (section 902) to help address the diversion of 911 fees by states and other jurisdictions for purposes unrelated to 911. Among other requirements, Congress mandated that the Commission should issue final rules designating the uses of 911 fees by states and taxing jurisdictions that constitute 911 fee diversion for purposes of 47 U.S.C. 615a-1, as amended by section 902. The Commission initiated this proceeding and issued new rules at 47 CFR 9.21-9.26 that: (1) clarify the purposes and functions for which expenditures of 911 fees are acceptable and which would be considered unacceptable and constitute diversion, with illustrative, non-exhaustive examples of each; (2) establish a declaratory ruling process for providing further guidance to states and taxing jurisdictions on fee diversion issues; and (3) codify the specific obligations and restrictions that section 902 imposes on states and taxing jurisdictions, including those that engage in diversion as defined by the Commission's rules.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| Notice of Inquiry | 10/02/20 | |
| NOI Comment Period End | 11/02/20 | |
| NOI Reply Comment Period End | 12/02/20 | |
| NPRM | 02/17/21 | 86 FR 12399 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/23/21 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 04/02/21 | 86 FR 12399 |
| Report & Order | 06/25/21 | 86 FR 45892 |
| R&O Erratum | 08/12/21 | 86 FR 45892 |
| Petition for Recon | 12/22/21 | 86 FR 72546 |
| Oppositions to Petition for Recon | 01/06/22 | |
| Replies to Oppositions to Petition for Recon | 01/18/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy & Licensing Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2062, Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov .
[top] RIN: 3060-AL31
310. Resilient Networks, Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; PS Docket No. 21-346 [3060-AL43]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i)-(j); 47 U.S.C. 154(n)-(o); 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 202; 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 218; 47 U.S.C. 251(e)(3); 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(b); 47 U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309(a); 47 U.S.C. 309(j); 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 403; . . .
Abstract: In October 2021, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to investigate ways to improve the reliability and resiliency of communications networks during emergencies and ways to ensure that communications services remain operational when disasters strike. The NPRM sought comment on: (i) potential improvements to the voluntary Wireless Resiliency Cooperative Framework (Framework), including evaluating what triggers its activation, its scope of participants, whether existing Framework elements can be strengthened, any gaps that need to be addressed, and whether the public would benefit from codifying some or all of the Framework, (ii) ways to enhance the information available to the Commission through Network Outage Reporting System (NORS) and Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) during disasters and network outages to improve situational awareness, and (iii) communications resiliency strategies for power outages, including improved coordination between communications service providers and power companies and deploying onsite backup power or other alternative measures to reduce the frequency, duration, or severity of power-related disruptions to communications services. In June 2022, the Commission adopted a Report & Order (R&O) and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) following up on and further addressing matters related to the Framework. The R&O introduced the MDRI, which largely codifies the Framework's five substantive provisions as mandatory, extended the reach of these provisions to all facilities-based mobile wireless providers, expanded the real-world criteria that trigger activation of the MDRI (as compared to the Framework) and introduced new provisions requiring providers to test their roaming capabilities and report on the performance of their implementation of the MDRI to the Commission after disaster events. The FNPRM examined whether and how the new reporting requirement can be standardized to ensure that the Commission obtains vital and actionable information on the performance of providers' implementation of the MDRI in the aftermath of exigency, while also minimizing associated burdens.This proceeding addresses network reliability in the context of public safety and does not promote the administration's specified priorities.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 10/01/21 | 86 FR 61103 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 01/14/22 | |
| FNPRM | 06/27/22 | 87 FR 59379 |
| R&O | 06/27/22 | 87 FR 59329 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 10/31/22 | |
| FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 11/29/22 | |
| Petition for Reconsideration | 10/31/22 | |
| Public Notice Comment | 12/02/22 | 87 FR 7102 |
| Extends Deadline to File Replies | 12/19/22 | 87 FR 79263 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7790, Email: logan.bennett@fcc.gov .
Saswat Misra, Attorney-Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0944, Email: saswat.misra@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL43
311. • Location-Based Routing for Wireless 911 Calls (P.S. Docket 18-64) [3060-AL52]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152(a); 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 222; 47 U.S.C. 251(e); 47 U.S.C. 301 to 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 332; 47 U.S.C. 615; 47 U.S.C. 615a; 47 U.S.C. 615b; 47 U.S.C. 615c
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Federal Communications Commission proposes rules to more precisely route wireless 911 calls and texts to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), which can result in faster response times during emergencies. Wireless 911 calls have historically been routed to PSAPs based on the location of the cell tower that handles the call. Sometimes, however, the 911 call is routed to the wrong PSAP because the cell tower is not in the same jurisdiction as the 911 caller. This can happen, for instance, when an emergency call is placed near a county border. These misrouted 911 calls must be transferred from one PSAP to another, which consumes time and resources and can cause confusion and delay in emergency response. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking ( NPRM ) proposes to require wireless and covered text providers to deploy technology that supports location-based routing, a method that relies on precise information about the location of the wireless caller's device, on some networks and to use location-based routing to route 911 voice calls and texts originating on those networks when caller location is accurate and timely. In addition, the NPRM proposes to require CMRS and covered text providers to deliver 911 calls, texts, and associated routing information in internet Protocol (IP) format upon request of certain 911 authorities.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/17/23 | 88 FR 2565 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/16/23 | |
| Reply Comments Due | 03/20/23 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy and Licensing Div, PSHSB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2062, Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL52
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau
Long-Term Actions
312. Amendment of Parts 1, 2, 22, 24, 27, 90, and 95 of the Commission's Rules To Improve Wireless Coverage Through the Use of Signal Boosters (WT Docket No. 10-4) [3060-AJ87]
[top] Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 79; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: This action adopts new technical, operational, and registration requirements for signal boosters. It creates two classes of signal boosters-consumer and industrial-with distinct regulatory requirements for each, thereby establishing a two-step transition process for equipment certification for both consumer and industrial signal boosters sold and marketed in the United States.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 05/10/11 | 76 FR 26983 |
| R&O | 04/11/13 | 78 FR 21555 |
| Petition for Reconsideration | 06/06/13 | 78 FR 34015 |
| Order on Reconsideration | 11/08/14 | 79 FR 70790 |
| FNPRM | 11/28/14 | 79 FR 70837 |
| 2nd R&O and 2nd FNPRM | 03/23/18 | 83 FR 17131 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Morgan Mendenhall, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0154, Email: morgan.mendenhall@fcc.gov .
Jaclyn Rosen, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0154, Email: jaclyn.rosen@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AJ87
313. Promoting Technological Solutions To Combat Wireless Contraband Device Use in Correctional Facilities; GN Docket No. 13-111 [3060-AK06]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(a); 47 U.S.C. 303(b); 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 302(a)
Abstract: In the 2017 Report and Order, 82 FR 22742, the Commission addressed the problem of illegal use of contraband wireless devices by inmates in correctional facilities by streamlining the process of deploying contraband wireless device interdiction systems (CIS)-systems that use radio communications signals requiring Commission authorization-in correctional facilities. In particular, the Commission eliminated certain filing requirements and provides for immediate approval of the lease applications needed to operate these systems. In the 2017 Further Notice, 82 FR 22780, the Commission sought comment on a process for wireless providers to disable contraband wireless devices once they have been identified. The Commission also sought comment on additional methods and technologies that might prove successful in combating contraband device use in correctional facilities, and on various other proposals related to the authorization process for CISs and their deployment.
In the Second Report and Order, the Commission takes further steps to facilitate the deployment and viability of technological solutions used to combat contraband wireless devices in correctional facilities. The Second Report and Order adopts a framework requiring the disabling of contraband wireless devices detected in correctional facilities upon satisfaction of certain criteria, and the Commission addresses issues involving oversight, wireless provider liability, and treatment of 911 calls. The Second Report and Order further adopts rules requiring advance notice of certain wireless provider network changes to promote and maintain contraband interdiction system effectiveness. In the Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission takes further steps to facilitate the deployment and viability of technological solutions used to combat contraband wireless devices in correctional facilities. The Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks further comment on the relative effectiveness, viability, and cost of additional technological solutions to combat contraband phone use in correctional facilities previously identified in the record.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/18/13 | 78 FR 36469 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 08/08/13 | |
| FNPRM | 05/18/17 | 82 FR 22780 |
| R&O | 05/18/17 | 82 FR 22742 |
| Final Rule Effective (Except for Rules Requiring OMB Approval) | 06/19/17 | |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 07/17/17 | |
| Final Rule Effective for 47 CFR 1.9020(n), 1.9030(m), 1.9035 (o), and 20.23(a) | 10/20/17 | 82 FR 48773 |
| Final Rule Effective for 47 CFR 1.902(d)(8), 1.9035(d)(4), 20.18(a), and 20.18(r) | 02/12/18 | |
| 2nd FNPRM | 08/13/21 | 86 FR 44681 |
| 2nd R&O | 08/13/21 | 86 FR 44635 |
| 2nd FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/13/21 | |
| Final Rules Effective (except for those requiring OMB approval) | 09/13/21 | |
| Reply Comment Period End | 10/12/21 | |
| Final Rule Effective | 05/03/22 | 87 FR 26139 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa Conway, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Div., Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2887, Email: melissa.conway@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK06
314. Promoting Investment in the 3550-3700 MHz Band; GN Docket No. 17-258 [3060-AK12]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j) ; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307(e); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: The Report and Order and Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) adopted by the Commission established a new Citizens Broadband Radio Service for shared wireless broadband use of the 3550 to 3700 MHz band. The Citizens Broadband Radio Service is governed by a three-tiered spectrum authorization framework to accommodate a variety of commercial uses on a shared basis with incumbent Federal and non-Federal users of the band. Access and operations will be managed by a dynamic spectrum access system. The three tiers are: Incumbent Access, Priority Access, and General Authorized Access. Rules governing the Citizens Broadband Radio Service are found in part 96 of the Commission's rules.
The Order on Reconsideration and Second Report and Order addressed several Petitions for Reconsideration submitted in response to the Report and Order and resolved the outstanding issues raised in the Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.
The 2017 NPRM sought comment on limited changes to the rules governing Priority Access Licenses in the band, adjacent channel emissions limits, and public release of base station registration information.
[top] The 2018 Report and Order addressed the issues raised in the 2017 NPRM and implemented changes rules governing
On July 2020, the Commission commenced an auction of Priority Access Licenses in the band. "Winning bidders were announced on September 2, 2020".
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/08/13 | 78 FR 1188 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/19/13 | |
| FNPRM | 06/02/14 | 79 FR 31247 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/15/14 | |
| R&O and 2nd FNPRM | 06/15/15 | 80 FR 34119 |
| 2nd FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/14/15 | |
| Order on Recon and 2nd R&O | 07/26/16 | 81 FR 49023 |
| NPRM | 11/28/17 | 82 FR 56193 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 01/29/18 | |
| R&O | 12/07/18 | 83 FR 6306 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Paul Powell, Assistant Chief, Mobility Division, WTB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1613, Email: paul.powell@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK12
315. Updating Part 1 Competitive Bidding Rules (WT Docket No. 14-170) [3060-AK28]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 309(j); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: This proceeding was initiated to revise some of the Commission's general part 1 rules governing competitive bidding for spectrum licenses to reflect changes in the marketplace, including the challenges faced by new entrants, as well as to advance the statutory directive to ensure that small businesses, rural telephone companies, and businesses owned by members of minority groups and women are given the opportunity to participate in the provision of spectrum-based services. In July 2015, the Commission revised its competitive bidding rules, specifically adopting revised requirements for eligibility for bidding credits, a new rural service provider bidding credit, a prohibition on joint bidding agreements and other changes.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 11/14/14 | 79 FR 68172 |
| Public Notice | 03/16/15 | 80 FR 15715 |
| Public Notice | 04/23/15 | 80 FR 22690 |
| R&O | 09/18/15 | 80 FR 56764 |
| Public Notice on Petitions for Reconsideration | 11/10/15 | 80 FR 69630 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Kelly Quinn, Assistant Chief, Auctions and Spectrum Access Division, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0660, Email: kelly.quinn@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK28
316. Use of Spectrum Bands Above 24 GHz for Mobile Services-Spectrum Frontiers: WT Docket 10-112 [3060-AK44]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 302; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309 and 310; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 1302
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission adopted service rules for licensing of mobile and other uses for millimeter wave (mmW) bands. These high frequencies previously have been best suited for satellite or fixed microwave applications; however, recent technological breakthroughs have newly enabled advanced mobile services in these bands, notably including very high speed and low latency services. This action will help facilitate Fifth Generation mobile services and other mobile services. In developing service rules for mmW bands, the Commission will facilitate access to spectrum, develop a flexible spectrum policy, and encourage wireless innovation.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/13/16 | 81 FR 1802 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/26/16 | |
| FNPRM | 08/24/16 | 81 FR 58269 |
| Comment Period End | 09/30/16 | |
| FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 10/31/16 | |
| R&O | 11/14/16 | 81 FR 79894 |
| R&O | 01/02/18 | 83 FR 37 |
| FNPRM | 01/02/18 | 83 FR 85 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 01/23/18 | |
| R&O | 07/20/18 | 83 FR 34478 |
| FNPRM | 07/20/18 | 83 FR 34520 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/28/18 | |
| R&O | 02/05/19 | 84 FR 1618 |
| R&O | 05/01/19 | 84 FR 18405 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John Schauble, Deputy Chief, Broadband Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0797, Email: john.schauble@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK44
317. Expanding Flexible Use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band: GN Docket No. 18-122 [3060-AK76]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 153; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C 157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 301 to 304; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 1302; . . .
Abstract: In the 2020 Report and Order, the Commission adopted rules to make 280 megahertz of mid-band spectrum available for flexible use (plus a 20-megahertz guard band) throughout the contiguous United States. Pursuant to the Report and Order, existing fixed satellite service (FSS) and fixed services (FS) must relocate operations out of the lower portion of the 3.7-4.0 GHz band. The Commission will issue flexible use licenses in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band in the contiguous United States via a system of competitive bidding. The Commission established rules to govern the transition including optional payments for satellite operators that choose to relocate on an accelerated schedule and provide reimbursement to FSS operators and their associated earth stations for reasonable expenses incurred to facilitate the transition. The Report and Order also established service and technical rules for the new flexible use licenses that will be issued in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band. "On December 8, 2020, the Commission began an auction of licenses in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band. the winning bidders were announced on February 24, 2021".
Timetable:
[top]
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 08/29/18 | 83 FR 44128 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 11/27/18 | |
| Public Notice | 05/20/19 | 84 FR 22733 |
| Certifications and Data Filing Deadline | 05/28/19 | |
| Public Notice | 06/03/19 | 84 FR 22514 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 07/03/19 | |
| Public Notice Reply Comment Period End | 07/18/19 | |
| R&O | 04/23/20 | 85 FR 22804 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Paul Powell, Assistant Chief, Mobility Division, WTB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1613, Email: paul.powell@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK76
318. Amendment of the Commission's Rules To Promote Aviation Safety: WT Docket No. 19-140 [3060-AK92]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 303; 307(e)
Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission regulates the Aviation Radio Service, a family of services using dedicated spectrum to enhance the safety of aircraft in flight, facilitate the efficient movement of aircraft both in the air and on the ground, and otherwise ensure the reliability and effectiveness of aviation communications. Recent technological advances have prompted the Commission to open this new rulemaking proceeding to ensure the timely deployment and use of today's state-of-the-art safety-enhancing technologies. With this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposes changes to its part 87 Aviation Radio Service rules to support the deployment of more advanced avionics technology, increase the efficient use of limited spectrum resources, and generally improve aviation safety.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 07/02/19 | 84 FR 31542 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/03/19 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 09/30/19 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jeff Tobias, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1617, Email: jeff.tobias@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK92
319. Implementation of State and Local Governments' Obligation To Approve Certain Wireless Facility Modification Requests Under Section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012 (WT Docket No. 19-250) [3060-AL29]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. chs. 2, 5, 9, 13; 28 U.S.C. 2461, unless otherwise noted.
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to reduce regulatory barriers to wireless infrastructure deployment by further streamlining the state and local government review process for modifications to existing wireless infrastructure under section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 07/02/20 | 85 FR 39859 |
| Declaratory Ruling | 07/27/20 | 85 FR 45126 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 08/03/20 | |
| R&O | 12/03/20 | 85 FR 78005 |
| Petition for Recon | 03/03/21 | 86 FR 12898 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Garnet Hanly, Division Chief, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0995, Email: garnet.hanly@fcc.gov .
Georgios Leris, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1994, Email: georgios.leris@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL29
320. Expanding Flexible Use of the 12.2-12.7 GHz Band, et al., WT Docket No. 20-443, et al. [3060-AL40]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152; 47 U.S.C. 153; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 304; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: The Commission seeks input on feasibility of allowing mobile services in the 12.2-12.7 GHz band while protecting incumbents from harmful interference.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 03/08/21 | 86 FR 13266 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/07/21 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 05/07/21 | |
| NPRM | 04/16/21 | 86 FR 20111 |
| NPRM Extension Comment Period End | 05/07/21 | |
| NPRM Extension Reply Comment Period End | 06/07/21 | |
| NPRM Denial of Further Extension of Deadlines for Filing Comments and Reply Comments | 05/27/21 | 86 FR 28520 |
| NPRM | 06/22/21 | 86 FR 32669 |
| NPRM Extension Reply Comment Period | 07/07/21 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Madelaine Maior, Assistant Division Chief, Broadband Div., WTB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1466, Email: madelaine.maior@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL40
321. • Facilitating Shared Use in the 3100-3550 MHz Band [3060-AL57]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 155(c) and 157; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 308; 47 U.S.C. 309 ; 47 U.S.C. 309(j)(3)(B) and 309(j)(4)(D); 47 U.S.C. 310 and 316; 47 U.S.C. 923(g) and 928; 47 U.S.C. 1502; Pub. L. 115-141, sec. 603; Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 905
Abstract: In the 3.45 GHz Band Second R&O, the Commission adopted rules to make 100 megahertz of mid-band spectrum available for flexible use throughout the contiguous United States. To facilitate this goal, the Commission previously had determined that secondary, nonfederal radiolocation licensees in the band would be relocated to the 2.9-3.0 GHz band. In the 3.45 GHz Band Second R&O, the Commission further determined that secondary, non-federal radiolocation authorizations would sunset 180 days after new 3.45 GHz Service licenses are granted in the band. On January 4, 2022, the auction for these new licenses concluded and licenses were granted on May 4, 2022. The non-federal radiolocation authorizations sunset on October 31, 2022.
[top] Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/22/20 | 85 FR 3579 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/23/20 | |
| Final Rule | 10/09/20 | 85 FR 64062 |
| Report & Order and FNPRM | 10/21/20 | 85 FR 66888 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 11/20/20 | |
| Correction to Final Rule | 11/03/20 | 85 FR 69515 |
| Report & Order, Order on Reconsideration and Order of Proposed Modification | 04/07/21 | 86 FR 17920 |
| Final Rule and Order | 12/22/22 | 87 FR 78579 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Morgan Mendenhall, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0154, Email: morgan.mendenhall@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL57
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Wireline Competition Bureau
Long-Term Actions
322. Telecommunications Carriers' Use of Customer Proprietary Network Information and Other Customer Information (CC Docket No. 96-115), Data Breach Reporting Requirements (WC Docket No. 22-21) [3060-AG43]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 222; 47 U.S.C. 272; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: The Commission adopted rules implementing the new statutory framework governing carrier use and disclosure of customer proprietary network information (CPNI) created by section 222 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended. CPNI includes, among other things, to whom, where, and when a customer places a call, as well as the types of service offerings to which the customer subscribes and the extent to which the service is used.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 05/28/96 | 61 FR 26483 |
| Public Notice | 02/25/97 | 62 FR 8414 |
| Second R&O and FNPRM | 04/24/98 | 63 FR 20364 |
| Order on Recon | 10/01/99 | 64 FR 53242 |
| Final Rule, Announcement of Effective Date | 01/26/01 | 66 FR 7865 |
| Clarification Order and Second NPRM | 09/07/01 | 66 FR 50140 |
| Third R&O and Third FNPRM | 09/20/02 | 67 FR 59205 |
| NPRM | 03/15/06 | 71 FR 13317 |
| NPRM | 06/08/07 | 72 FR 31782 |
| Final Rule, Announcement of Effective Date | 06/08/07 | 72 FR 31948 |
| Public Notice | 07/13/12 | 77 FR 35336 |
| Final Rule | 09/21/17 | 82 FR 44188 |
| NPRM | 01/23/23 | 88 FR 3953 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/22/22 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 03/24/23 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa Kirkel, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7958, Fax: 202 418-1413, Email: melissa.kirkel@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AG43
323. Local Telephone Networks That LECs Must Make Available to Competitors [3060-AH44]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: The Commission adopted rules applicable to incumbent local exchange carriers (LECs) to permit competitive carriers to access portions of the incumbent LECs' networks on an unbundled basis. Unbundling allows competitors to lease portions of the incumbent LECs' network to provide telecommunications services. These rules, adopted in dockets CC 96-98, WC 01-338, and WC 04-313, are intended to accelerate the development of local exchange competition.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| Second FNPRM | 04/26/99 | 64 FR 20238 |
| Fourth FNPRM | 01/14/00 | 65 FR 2367 |
| Errata Third R&O and Fourth FNPRM | 01/18/00 | 65 FR 2542 |
| Second Errata Third R&O and Fourth FNPRM | 01/18/00 | 65 FR 2542 |
| Supplemental Order | 01/18/00 | 65 FR 2542 |
| Third R&O | 01/18/00 | 65 FR 2542 |
| Correction | 04/11/00 | 65 FR 19334 |
| Supplemental Order Clarification | 06/20/00 | 65 FR 38214 |
| Public Notice | 02/01/01 | 66 FR 8555 |
| Public Notice | 03/05/01 | 66 FR 18279 |
| Public Notice | 04/10/01 | |
| Public Notice | 04/23/01 | |
| Public Notice | 05/14/01 | |
| NPRM | 01/15/02 | 67 FR 1947 |
| Public Notice | 05/29/02 | |
| Public Notice | 08/01/02 | |
| Public Notice | 08/13/02 | |
| NPRM | 08/21/03 | 68 FR 52276 |
| R&O and Order on Remand | 08/21/03 | 68 FR 52276 |
| Errata | 09/17/03 | |
| Report | 10/09/03 | 68 FR 60391 |
| Order | 10/28/03 | |
| Order | 01/09/04 | |
| Public Notice | 01/09/04 | |
| Public Notice | 02/18/04 | |
| Order | 07/08/04 | |
| Second R&O | 07/08/04 | 69 FR 43762 |
| Order on Recon | 08/09/04 | 69 FR 54589 |
| Interim Order | 08/20/04 | 69 FR 55111 |
| NPRM | 08/20/04 | 69 FR 55128 |
| Public Notice | 09/10/04 | |
| Public Notice | 09/13/04 | |
| Public Notice | 10/20/04 | |
| Order on Recon | 12/29/04 | 69 FR 77950 |
| Order on Remand | 02/04/04 | |
| Public Notice | 04/25/05 | 70 FR 29313 |
| Public Notice | 05/25/05 | 70 FR 34765 |
| Declaratory Ruling | 05/26/11 | |
| NPRM | 01/06/20 | 85 FR 472 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/06/20 | |
| Report & Order | 01/08/21 | 86 FR 1636 |
| Next Action Undetermined | To Be Determined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Edward Krachmer, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1525, Email: edward.krachmer@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AH44
324. Jurisdictional Separations [3060-AJ06]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 205; 47 U.S.C. 221(c); 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 410
[top] Abstract: Jurisdictional separations is the process, pursuant to part 36 of the Commission's rules, by which incumbent local exchange carriers apportion regulated costs between the intrastate and interstate jurisdictions. In 1997, the Commission initiated a proceeding seeking comment on the extent to which legislative changes, technological changes, and marketplace changes warrant comprehensive reform of the separations process. In 2001, the
In 2016, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the separations freeze for an additional 18 months until January 1, 2018. In 2017, the Joint Board issued a Recommended Decision recommending changes to the part 36 rules designed to harmonize them with the Commission's previous amendments to its part 32 accounting rules. In February 2018, the Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing amendments to part 36 consistent with the Joint Board's recommendations. In October 2018, the Commission issued a Report and Order adopting each of the Joint Board's recommendations and amending the Part 36 consistent with those recommendations. In July 2018, the Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to extend the separations freeze for an additional 15 years and to provide rate-of-return carriers that had elected to freeze their category relationships a time limited opportunity to opt out of that freeze. In December 2018, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the freeze for up to 6 years until December 31, 2024, and granting rate-of-return carriers that had elected to freeze their category relationships a one-time opportunity to opt out of that freeze.
On March 31, 2020, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit affirmed the Commission's December 2018 Report and Order.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 11/05/97 | 62 FR 59842 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 12/10/97 | |
| Order | 06/21/01 | 66 FR 33202 |
| Order and FNPRM | 05/26/06 | 71 FR 29882 |
| Order and FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/22/06 | |
| R&O | 05/15/09 | 74 FR 23955 |
| R&O | 05/25/10 | 75 FR 30301 |
| R&O | 05/27/11 | 76 FR 30840 |
| R&O | 05/23/12 | 77 FR 30410 |
| R&O | 06/13/14 | 79 FR 36232 |
| R&O | 06/02/17 | 82 FR 25535 |
| Recommended Decision | 10/27/17 | |
| NPRM | 03/13/18 | 83 FR 10817 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/27/18 | |
| NPRM | 07/27/18 | 83 FR 35589 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/10/18 | |
| R&O | 12/11/18 | 83 FR 63581 |
| R&O | 02/15/19 | 84 FR 4351 |
| Announcement of OMB Approval | 03/01/19 | 84 FR 6977 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: William A. Kehoe III, Senior Counsel, Policy & Program Planning Division, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7122, Email: william.kehoe@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AJ06
325. Rates for Inmate Calling Services; WC Docket No. 12-375; Incarcerated People's Communications Services; Implementation of the Martha Wright-Reed Act, WC Docket No. 23-62 [3060-AK08]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j); 47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 218; 47 U.S.C. 220; 47 U.S.C. 276; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 CFR 64; Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable Communications Act of 2022; Pub. L. 117-338, 136 Stat. 6156 ; 47 U.S.C. 152(b) and 153(1)(E); 47 U.S.C. 276(b)(1)(A) and (d)
Abstract: In the Second Report and Order, the Federal Communications Commission (the Commission) adopted rule changes to ensure that rates for both interstate and intrastate inmate calling services (ICS) are fair, just, and reasonable limits on ancillary service charges imposed by ICS providers. In the Second Report and Order, the Commission set caps on all interstate and intrastate calling rates for ICS, established a tiered rate structure based on the size and type of facility being served, limited the types of ancillary services that ICS providers may charge for and capped the charges for permitted fees, banned flat-rate calling, facilitated access to ICS by people with disabilities by requiring providers to offer free or steeply discounted rates for calls using TTY, and imposed reporting and certification requirements to facilitate continued oversight of the ICS market. In the Third Further Notice portion of the item, the Commission sought comment on ways to promote competition for ICS, video visitation, and rates for international calls, and considered an array of solutions to further address areas of concern in the ICS industry. In an Order on Reconsideration, the Commission amended its rate caps and the definition of "mandatory tax or mandatory fee".
On June 13, 2017, the D.C. Circuit vacated the rate caps adopted in the Second Report and Order, as well as reporting requirements related to video visitation. The court held that the Commission lacked jurisdiction over intrastate ICS calls and that the rate caps the Commission adopted for interstate calls were arbitrary and capricious. The court also remanded the Commission's caps on ancillary fees. On September 26, 2017, the court denied a petition for rehearing en banc. On December 21, 2017, the court issued two separate orders: one vacating the 2016 Order on Reconsideration insofar as it purported to set rate caps on inmate calling services, and one dismissing as moot challenges to the Commission's First Report and Order on ICS.
On February 4, 2020, the Commission's Wireline Competition Bureau (WCB) released a Public Notice seeking to refresh the record on ancillary service charges imposed in connection with ICS.
[top] On August 6, 2020, the Commission adopted a Report and Order on Remand and a Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking responding to remands by the D.C. Circuit and proposing to comprehensively reform rates and charges for the ICS within the Commission's jurisdiction. The Report and Order on Remand found that the Commission's five permitted ancillary service charges: (1) automated payment fees; (2) fees for single-call and related services; (3) live agent fees; (4) paper bill/statement fees; and (5) third-party financial transaction fees generally, cannot be practically segregated between interstate and intrastate inmate telephone calls, except in a limited number of cases. Accordingly, the Commission prohibited ICS providers
The Order also reinstated a rule prohibiting providers from marking up third-party fees for single-call services; reinstated rule language that prohibits providers from marking up mandatory taxes or fees that they pass on to inmate telephone service consumers; and amended certain of the ICS rules consistent with the D.C. Circuit's mandates to reflect that the Commission's rate and fee caps on ICS apply only to interstate and international inmate calling.
The Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposed to substantially reduce the interstate rate cap for inmate telephone calls from the current interim rate caps of $0.21 per minute for debit or prepaid calls and $0.25 per minute for collect calls for all types of correctional facilities, to permanent rate caps of $0.14 per minute for all interstate calls from prisons and $0.16 for all interstate calls from jails. The Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking also proposed to adopt rate caps for international ICS calls for the first time based on the proposed interstate rate caps, plus the amount that the provider must pay its underlying international service provider for an international call. It also proposed a waiver process for providers that believe the Commission's rate caps would not allow them to recover their costs of serving a particular facility or contract. Finally, it sought comment on a further mandatory data collection to continue efforts to reform these rates and fees.
On November 23, 2020, Global Tel*Link Corporation (GTL) filed a petition for reconsideration of the August 6, 2020 Order on Remand. On December 3, 2020, the Commission established the opposition and reply comment dates for the petition.
On May 24, 2021, the Commission released the Third Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration and Fifth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. In the Third Report and Order, the Commission: (1) substantially reduced the interim rate caps for interstate ICS from prisons and larger jails (those with 1,000 or more incarcerated people) from $0.21 per minute for debit and prepaid calls and $0.25 per minute for collect calls to new uniform interim interstate caps of $0.12 per minute for prisons and $0.14 per minute for larger jails; (2) maintained the interim interstate rate cap of $0.21 for jails with less than 1,000 incarcerated people because of insufficient record evidence to determine providers' costs of serving those facilities at the time; (3) eliminated separate treatment of collect calls, resulting in a uniform interim interstate rate cap for all types of calls at each facility; (4) reformed the treatment of site commission payments by specifying that providers may pass through to consumers (without any markup) site commission payments that are mandated by federal, state, or local law and that providers may pass through to consumers no more than $0.02 per minute site commission payments resulting from contractual obligations negotiated between providers and correctional officials; (5) capped, for the first time, international calling rates at all facilities at the applicable facility's total interstate rate cap, plus the amount the inmate calling services provider pays to its underlying wholesale carriers for completing international calls; (6) reformed the ancillary service charge caps for third-party financial transaction fees, including those related to calls that are billed on a per-call basis; and (7) adopted a new mandatory data collection to obtain more uniform cost data based on consistent, prescribed allocation methodologies to determine just and reasonable, permanent, interstate and international cost-based rates for facilities of all sizes.
In the Order on Reconsideration, the Commission denied GTL's petition for reconsideration of a single sentence from the 2020 Remand Order, in which the Commission reminded providers that the jurisdictional nature of a call, that is whether it is interstate or intrastate, depends on the physical location of the endpoints of the call and not on whether the area code or NXX prefix of the telephone number associated with the account are associated with a particular state. The Commission determined that the end-to-end analysis has been, and remains, the generally applicable test for all telecommunications carriers in determining the jurisdiction of their calls and the Commission continues to use the traditional end-to-end jurisdictional analysis in setting rates for calls placed by ICS consumers.
In the Fifth Further Notice, the Commission proposed to amend its rules to require calling service providers to provide access to all forms of Telecommunications Relay Services, including internet-based services, to facilitate greater accessibility for incarcerated people with hearing and speech disabilities. The Commission also sought comment on: (1) the methodology the Commission should use to set permanent per-minute rate caps for interstate and international inmate calling services; (2) site commission costs for facilities of all sizes and site commission reform generally; (3) the costs of providing services to jails with average daily populations of fewer than 1,000 incarcerated people; (4) whether and how the Commission should reform the ancillary service charge caps and how the Commission can curtail potentially abusive practices related to these charges; (5) whether to institute a recurring periodic data collection; and (6) whether some providers have market power in the bidding process, thereby impacting the competitiveness of the bidding process.
On September 22, 2021, WCB and the Office of Economics and Analytics (OEA), (collectively, WCB/OEA) issued a Public Notice seeking comment on the contours and specific requirements of the Third Mandatory Data Collection, including proposed instructions and a proposed template for that collection. In issuing this Public Notice, WCB/OEA were acting pursuant to the Commission's directive, made in the 2021 ICS Order, that the new data collection obtain data on providers' operations, costs, demand, and revenues, among other information. As the Commission explained in that Order, the collected information would allow the Commission to set permanent interstate and international inmate calling services rate caps and to evaluate and, if warranted, revise the ancillary service charge caps.
On December 15, 2021, WCB/OEA issued a Public Notice seeking comment on revised requirements for ICS Annual Reports, including proposed instructions, templates, and a provider certification. Specifically, the Public Notice proposed changes in the reporting requirements to align them with ICS rule changes adopted in the 2021 ICS Order.
On January 18, 2022, WCB adopted an Order implementing the Third Mandatory Data Collection and adopted accompanying instructions, reporting templates, and a certification form. The collected information would allow the Commission to set permanent interstate and international inmate calling services rate caps and to evaluate and, if warranted, revise the current ancillary service charge caps.
[top] On February 9, 2022, WCB released a public notice announcing that the providers' mandatory data collection responses will be due no later than June 30, 2022.
On June 24, 2022, WCB adopted an Order implementing revisions to its annual reporting requirements, including accompanying instructions, reporting templates, and a certification form. The revisions were consistent with changes made in the Third Report and Order.
On September 30, 2022, the Commission released the Fourth Report and Order, and Sixth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The Report and Order required ICS providers to provide access to all relay services eligible for Telecommunications Relay Services fund support in any correctional facility that is located where broadband is available and is part of a correctional system with 50 or more incarcerated people. This included the ability to place point-to-point video calls using American Sign Language. The rules also restricted provider charges for relay services and point-to-point video calls. More generally, the rules reduced certain charges and curtailed abusive practices related to ICS to ease the financial burdens on all incarcerated people and their families. To ensure that the rates, terms, and practices related to interstate and international ICS are just and reasonable, the Order prohibited providers from taking control of funds in inactive calling accounts until at least 180 calendar days of continuous inactivity had passed, after which providers are required to refund the balance or dispose of the funds in accordance with applicable state law. The Order also lowered the current ancillary fee caps on charges for single call services, and lowered the cap on provider charges for processing credit card, debit card, and other payments to calling services accounts. Finally, the Commission revised the definitions of "Prison" and "Jail" in its rules to conform with the Commission's intent in adopting them in 2015.
In the Sixth Further Notice, the Commission sought additional comment on whether to allow enterprise registration for internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service in carceral settings and how to address the special circumstances faced by some ICS providers in jurisdictions with average daily populations of fewer than 50 incarcerated persons. This Notice sought comment on refining the rules adopted in the Fifth Report and Order concerning the treatment of balances in inactive accounts. It also sought comment on expanding the breadth and scope of the Commission's consumer disclosure requirements. The Commission asked for comment on how it should use the data filed in response to the Third Mandatory Data Collection to establish just and reasonable permanent caps on interstate and international rates and associated ancillary service charges consistent with the Telecommunications Act of 1934 (the Act). The Commission invited further comment on allowing ICS providers to offer pilot programs allowing consumers to purchase calling services under alternative pricing structures.
On March 17, 2023, the Commission opened a new docket, WC Docket No. 23-62, and released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order to begin implementation of the Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable Communications Act of 2022, which was signed into law on January 5, 2023. The Martha Wright-Reed Act expands the Commission's authority over rates charged for incarcerated people's communications services, including intrastate services, and directs the Commission to adopt just and reasonable rates and charges for incarcerated people's audio and video communications services not earlier than 18 months and not later than 24 months after the date of its enactment. The Notice seeks comment on (1) the expansion of the Commission's authority over incarcerated people's communications services to include advanced communications services (including audio and video services) and intrastate services; (2) the meaning of "just and reasonable" in the context of the Act's other provisions; (3) the rate-making methodology the Commission should use to fulfill its mandate to ensure that rates and charges for incarcerated people's communications services are just and reasonable; (4) the safety and security costs necessary for the provision of incarcerated people's communications services; and (5) the actions the Commission should take to ensure that incarcerated people's communications services are accessible to, and usable by, people with communication disabilities. The accompanying Order reaffirmed the Commission's prior delegation of data collection authority to WCB/OEA and directed staff to initiate a collection of provider data to inform the Commission's responsibilities to implement the requirements of the Martha Wright-Reed Act.
Timetable:
[top]
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/22/13 | 78 FR 4369 |
| FNPRM | 11/13/13 | 78 FR 68005 |
| R&O | 11/13/13 | 78 FR 67956 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 12/20/13 | |
| 2nd FNPRM | 11/21/14 | 79 FR 69682 |
| 2nd FNPRM Comment Period End | 01/15/15 | |
| 2nd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 01/20/15 | |
| 3rd FNPRM | 12/18/15 | 80 FR 79020 |
| 2nd R&O | 12/18/15 | 80 FR 79136 |
| 3rd FNPRM Comment Period End | 01/19/16 | |
| 3rd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 02/08/16 | |
| Order on Reconsideration | 09/12/16 | 81 FR 62818 |
| Announcement of OMB Approval | 03/01/17 | 82 FR 12182 |
| Correction to Announcement of OMB Approval | 03/08/17 | 82 FR 12922 |
| Announcement of OMB Approval | 02/06/20 | 85 FR 6947 |
| Public Notice | 02/19/20 | 85 FR 9444 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 03/20/20 | |
| Public Notice Reply Comment Period End | 04/06/20 | |
| Letter | 07/15/20 | |
| R&O on Remand & 4th FNPRM | 08/06/20 | 85 FR 67450; 85 FR 67480; 85 FR 73233 |
| Order | 09/01/20 | |
| Public Notice | 09/24/20 | 85 FR 66512 |
| Public Notice | 10/23/20 | |
| Letter | 11/13/20 | |
| Public Notice | 12/03/20 | 85 FR 83000 |
| Order Extending Reply Comment Deadline | 12/17/20 | |
| Public Notice | 01/08/21 | |
| Comment Period End on 12/3/2020, Public Notice End | 01/11/21 | |
| Comment Period End on 12/3/2020, Public Notice End | 01/21/21 | |
| Public Notice | 03/03/21 | |
| 5th FNPRM | 07/28/21 | 86 FR 40416 |
| 3rd R&O | 07/28/21 | 86 FR 40682 |
| 3rd R&O | 07/28/21 | 86 FR 40340 |
| Order | 08/10/21 | 86 FR 48952 |
| Public Notice (MDC) | 09/22/21 | 86 FR 54897 |
| 5th NPRM Comment Period End | 09/27/21 | |
| Order Extending Reply Comment Deadline | 10/15/21 | 86 FR 60438 |
| 5th NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 10/27/21 | |
| Comment Period End on 09/22/2021, Public Notice End | 11/04/21 | |
| Reply Comment Period on 09/22/2021, Public Notice End | 11/19/21 | |
| 5th NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 12/17/21 | |
| Public Notice on Annual Reports | 01/04/22 | 87 FR 212 |
| Comment Period End on 01/04/2022, Public Notice End | 01/12/22 | |
| Reply Period on 01/04/2022, Public Notice End | 01/27/22 | |
| Order Adopting MDC | 03/22/22 | 87 FR 16560 |
| Order Adopting Annual Reports Revisions | 08/02/22 | 87 FR 47103 |
| 4th R&O | 09/30/22 | |
| 6th FNPRM | 09/30/22 | |
| NPRM and Order | To Be Determined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: David Zesiger, Deputy Division Chief, PPD, WCB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2081, Email: david.zesiger@fcc.gov.
Erik Raven-Hansen, Assistant Division Chief, Pricing Policy Division, Wireline Comp., Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1532, Email: erik.raven-hansen@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK08
326. Comprehensive Review of the Part 32 Uniform System of Accounts (WC Docket No. 14-130) [3060-AK20]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 219 and 220
Abstract: The Commission initiates a rulemaking proceeding to review the Uniform System of Accounts (USOA) to consider ways to minimize the compliance burdens on incumbent local exchange carriers while ensuring that the Agency retains access to the information it needs to fulfill its regulatory duties. In light of the Commission's actions in areas of price cap regulation, universal service reform, and intercarrier compensation reform, the Commission stated that it is likely appropriate to streamline the existing rules even though those reforms may not have eliminated the need for accounting data for some purposes. The Commission's analysis and proposals are divided into three parts. First, the Commission proposes to streamline the USOA accounting rules while preserving their existing structure. Second, the Commission seeks more focused comment on the accounting requirements needed for price cap carriers to address our statutory and regulatory obligations. Third, the Commission seeks comment on several related issues, including state requirements, rate effects, implementation, continuing property records, and legal authority.
On February 23, 2017, the Commission adopted a Report and Order that revised the part 32 USOA to substantially reduce accounting burdens for both price cap and rate-of-return carriers. First, the Order streamlines the USOA for all carriers. In addition, the USOA will be aligned more closely with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP. Second, the Order allows price cap carriers to use GAAP for all regulatory accounting purposes as long as they comply with targeted accounting rules, which are designed to mitigate any impact on pole attachment rates. Alternatively, price cap carriers can elect to use GAAP accounting for all purposes other than those associated with pole attachment rates and continue to use the part 32 accounts for pole attachment rates for up to 12 years. Third, the Order addresses several miscellaneous issues, including referral to the Federal-State Joint Board on Separations the issue of examining jurisdictional separations rules in light of the reforms adopted to part 32.
On June 5, 2017, NCTA-The internet & Television Association filed a petition for reconsideration of the Report and Order requesting that the Commission: (a) clarify that parties making pole attachments will have access to all accounting information needed to verify the reasonableness of pole attachment rates; and (b) establish additional substantive protections to ensure that pole attachment rates based on GAAP are consistent with the requirements of Section 224 of the Communication Act and the assurances contained in the Part 32 Order. Oppositions to that petition were due on July 21, 2017, and replies were due on July 31, 2017.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 09/15/14 | 79 FR 54942 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 11/14/14 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 12/15/14 | |
| R&O | 04/04/17 | 82 FR 20833 |
| Petition for Reconsideration | 06/05/17 | 82 FR 31282 |
| Comment Period on Petition for Reconsideration End | 07/21/17 | |
| Reply Comment Period on Petition for Reconsideration End | 07/31/17 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: William A. Kehoe III, Senior Counsel, Policy & Program Planning Division, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7122, Email: william.kehoe@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK20
327. Restoring Internet Freedom (WC Docket No. 17-108); Protecting and Promoting the Open Internet (GN Docket No. 14-28) [3060-AK21]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j); 47 U.S.C. 201(b)
Abstract: In December 2017, the Commission adopted the Restoring internet Freedom Declaratory Ruling, Report and Order, and Order (Restoring internet Freedom Order), which reclassified broadband internet access service as an information service; reinstates the determination that mobile broadband internet access service is not a commercial mobile service and as a private mobile service; finds that transparency, internet Service Providers (ISPs) economic incentives, and antitrust and consumer protection laws will protect the openness of the internet, and that title II regulation is unnecessary to do so; and adopts a transparency rule similar to that in the 2010 Open internet Order, requiring disclosure of network management practices, performance characteristics, and commercial terms of service. Additionally, the transparency rule requires ISPs to disclose any blocking, throttling, paid prioritization, or affiliate prioritization, and eliminates the internet conduct standard and the bright-line conduct rules set forth in the 2015 Open internet Order.
Timetable:
[top]
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 07/01/14 | 79 FR 37448 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 07/18/14 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 09/15/14 | |
| R&O on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, and Order | 04/13/15 | 80 FR 19737 |
| NPRM | 06/02/17 | 82 FR 25568 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 07/03/17 | |
| Declaratory Ruling, R&O, and Order | 02/22/18 | 83 FR 7852 |
| Order on Remand | 01/07/21 | 86 FR 994 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa Kirkel, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7958, Fax: 202 418-1413, Email: melissa.kirkel@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK21
328. Technology Transitions; GN Docket No. 13-5, WC Docket No. 05-25; Accelerating Wireline Broadband Deployment by Removing Barriers to Infrastructure Investment; WC Docket No. 17-84 [3060-AK32]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: On April 20, 2017, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, Notice of Inquiry, and Request for Comment (Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOl, and RFC) seeking input on a number of actions designed to accelerate: (1) the deployment of next-generation networks and services by removing barriers to infrastructure investment at the Federal, State, and local level; (2) the transition from legacy copper networks and services to next-generation fiber-based networks and services; and (3) the reduction of Commission regulations that raise costs and slow, rather than facilitate, broadband deployment.
On November 16, 2017, the Commission adopted a Report and Order (R&O), Declaratory Ruling, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Wireline Infrastructure Order) that takes a number of actions and seeks comment on further actions designed to accelerate the deployment of next-generation networks and services through removing barriers to infrastructure investment.
The Wireline Infrastructure Order took a number of actions. First, the Report and Order revised the pole attachment rules to reduce costs for attachers, reforms the pole access complaint procedures to settle access disputes more swiftly, and increases access to infrastructure for certain types of broadband providers. Second, the Report and Order revised the section 214(a) discontinuance rules and the network change notification rules, including those applicable to copper retirements, to expedite the process for carriers seeking to replace legacy network infrastructure and legacy services with advanced broadband networks and innovative new services. Third, the Report and Order reversed a 2015 ruling that discontinuance authority is required for solely wholesale services to carrier-customers. Fourth, the Declaratory Ruling abandoned the 2014 "functional test" interpretation of when section 214 discontinuance applications are required, bringing added clarity to the section 214(a) discontinuance process for carriers and consumers alike. Finally, the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking sought comment on additional potential pole attachment reforms, reforms to the network change disclosure and section 214(a) discontinuance processes, and ways to facilitate rebuilding networks impacted by natural disasters. Various parties filed a Petition for Review of the Wireline Infrastructure Order in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The Ninth Circuit denied the Petition on January 23, 2020 on the grounds that the parties lacked standing.
On June 7, 2018, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order (Wireline Infrastructure Second Report and Order) taking further actions designed to expedite the transition from legacy networks and services to next generation networks and advanced services that benefit the American public and to promote broadband deployment by further streamlining the section 214(a) discontinuance rules, network change disclosure processes, and part 68 customer notification process.
The Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOI, and RFC sought comment on additional issues not addressed in the November Wireline Infrastructure Order or the June Wireline Infrastructure Second Report and Order. It sought comment on changes to the Commission's pole attachment rules to: (1) streamline the timeframe for gaining access to utility poles; (2) reduce charges paid by attachers for work done to make a pole ready for new attachments; and (3) establish a formula for computing the maximum pole attachment rate that may be imposed on an incumbent LEC.
The Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOI, and RFC also sought comment on whether the Commission should enact rules, consistent with its authority under section 253 of the Act, to promote the deployment of broadband infrastructure by preempting State and local laws that inhibit broadband deployment. It also sought comment on whether there are State laws governing the maintenance or retirement of copper facilities that serve as a barrier to deploying next-generation technologies and services that the Commission might seek to preempt.
Previously, in November 2014, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Declaratory Ruling that: (1) proposed new backup power rules; (2) proposed new or revised rules for copper retirements and service discontinuances; and (3) adopted a functional test in determining what constitutes a service for purposes of section 214(a) discontinuance review. In August 2015, the Commission adopted a Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that: (i) lengthened and revised the copper retirement process; (ii) determined that a carrier must obtain Commission approval before discontinuing a service used as a wholesale input if the carrier's actions will discontinue service to a carrier-customer's retail end users; (iii) adopted an interim rule requiring incumbent LECs that seek to discontinue certain TDM-based wholesale services to commit to certain rates, terms, and conditions; (iv) proposed further revisions to the copper retirement discontinuance process; and (v) upheld the November 2014 Declaratory Ruling. In July 2016, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order, Declaratory Ruling, and Order on Reconsideration that: (i) adopted a new test for obtaining streamlined treatment when carriers seek Commission authorization to discontinue legacy services in favor of services based on newer technologies; (ii) set forth consumer education requirements for carriers seeking to discontinue legacy services in favor of services based on newer technologies; (iii) allowed notice to customers of discontinuance applications by email; (iv) required carriers to provide notice of discontinuance applications to Tribal entities; (v) made a technical rule change to create a new title for copper retirement notices and certifications; and (vi) harmonized the timeline for competitive LEC discontinuances caused by incumbent LEC network changes.
[top] On August 2, 2018, the Commission adopted a Third Report and Order and Declaratory Ruling (Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order)
On August 8, 2018, Public Knowledge filed a Petition for Reconsideration of the Second Report and Order and Motion to Hold in Abeyance. On October 20, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) adopted a Declaratory Ruling, Order on Reconsideration, and Order. In the Declaratory Ruling, the Bureau clarified that any carrier seeking to discontinue legacy voice service to a community or part of a community that is the last retail provider of such legacy TDM service to that community or part of the community is subject to the Commission's technology transition discontinuance rules, including the requirements to receive streamlined treatment of its discontinuance application. In the Order on Reconsideration, the Bureau denied the Public Knowledge Petition for Reconsideration because all of Public Knowledge's arguments were fully considered, and rejected, by the Commission in the underlying proceeding. It also dismissed as moot the accompanying motion to have the Commission hold that Order in abeyance pending the outcome of the appeal that the Ninth Circuit ultimately denied.
In September 2019, CTIA filed a Petition for Declaratory Ruling seeking clarification of certain issues raised in the 2018 Third Report and Order. On July 29, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Declaratory Ruling clarifying that (1) the imposition of a blanket ban" by a utility on attachments to any portion of a utility pole is inconsistent with the federal requirement that a denial of access . . . be specific" to a particular request; and (2) while utilities and attachers have the flexibility to negotiate terms in their pole attachment agreements that differ from the requirements in the Commission's rules, a utility cannot use its significant negotiating leverage to require an attacher to give up rights to which the attacher is entitled under the rules without the attacher obtaining a corresponding benefit.
On July 20, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Declaratory Ruling filed on July 16, 2020 by NCTA The internet & Television Association. NCTA asked the Commission to declare that: (1) pole owners must share in the cost of pole replacements in unserved areas pursuant to section 224 of the Communications Act, section 1.1408(b) of the Commission's rules, and Commission precedent; (2) pole attachment complaints arising in unserved areas should be prioritized through placement on the Accelerated Docket under section 1.736 of the Commission's rules; and (3) section 1.1407(b) of the Commission's rules authorizes the Commission to order any pole owner to complete a pole replacement within a specified period of time or designate an authorized contractor to do so. Comments on the NCTA Petition were due by September 2, 2020, and reply comments by September 17, 2020.
On January 19, 2021, WCB released a Declaratory Ruling on the subject of pole replacements. WCB declined to rule on the NCTA Petition, finding that the questions raised were better suited to a rulemaking. However, in response to the Petition's record, WCB issued a narrow clarification: a utility may not impose the entire cost of a pole replacement on a requesting attacher when the attacher is not the sole cause of the pole replacement (for instance, where the pole has been red-tagged" i.e., placed on a utility's pole replacement schedule due to non-compliance with safety standards).
On July 23, 2021, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Declaratory Ruling filed by the Edison Electric Institute asking the Commission to declare that: (1) when the Commission determines that a pole attachment rate, term, or condition is unjust and unreasonable and orders a refund pursuant to section 1.1407(a)(3) of the Commission's rules, the applicable statute of limitations" is the same as the two-year period prescribed by section 415(b) of the Act; and (2) refunds in pole attachment complaint proceedings are not appropriate" for any period preceding good-faith notice of a dispute. Deadlines for filing comments and reply comments were set for August 23, 2021, and September 10, 2021, respectively.
In March 2022, the Commission began the rulemaking contemplated by the January 2021 Declaratory Ruling, by adopting a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on several issues relating to pole replacements, including (1) whether and to what extent utilities directly benefit from various types of pole replacements in situations where a pole replacement is not necessitated solely" by a new attachment request; (2) whether requiring utilities to pay a portion of the costs of a pole replacement would positively or negatively affect negotiations of pole attachment agreements and broadband deployment; (3) what measures the Commission could adopt to expedite the resolution of pole replacement disputes; and (4) what scope of refunds the Commission should order when it determines that a pole attachment rate, term, or condition is unjust and unreasonable. Comments on the Second FNPRM were due on June 27, 2022, while reply comments were due on August 26, 2022.
[top] Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/06/15 | 80 FR 450 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/05/15 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 03/09/15 | |
| FNPRM | 09/25/15 | 80 FR 57768 |
| R&O | 09/25/15 | 80 FR 57768 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 10/26/15 | |
| FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 11/24/15 | |
| 2nd R&O | 09/12/16 | 81 FR 62632 |
| NPRM | 05/16/17 | 82 FR 224533 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 06/15/17 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 07/17/17 | |
| R&O | 12/28/17 | 82 FR 61520 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 01/17/18 | |
| FNPRM Reply Comment Period End | 02/16/18 | |
| 2nd R&O | 07/09/18 | 83 FR 31659 |
| 3rd R&O | 09/14/18 | 83 FR 46812 |
| NCTA Public Notice | 07/20/20 | |
| CTIA Declaratory Ruling | 07/29/20 | |
| Declaratory Ruling | 01/19/21 | |
| Order on Reconsideration | 02/02/21 | 86 FR 8872 |
| EEI Public Notice | 07/23/21 | |
| EEI Public Notice Comment Period End | 08/23/21 | |
| EEI Public Notice Reply Comment Period End | 09/10/21 | |
| Second FNPRM | 03/18/22 | 87 FR 25181 |
| Second Further NPRM Comment Period End | 06/27/22 | |
| Second Further NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 08/26/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michele Berlove, Assistant Division Chief, Competition Policy Div., WCB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1477, Email: michele.berlove@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK32
329. Numbering Policies for Modern Communications, WC Docket No. 13-97 [3060-AK36]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 153 to 154; 47 U.S.C. 201 to 205; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: This Order establishes a process to authorize interconnected VoIP providers to obtain North American Numbering Plan (NANP) telephone numbers directly from the numbering administrators, rather than through intermediaries. Section 52.15(g)(2)(i) of the Commission's rules limits access to telephone numbers to entities that demonstrate they are authorized to provide service in the area for which the numbers are being requested. The Commission has interpreted this rule as requiring evidence of either a State certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) or a Commission license. Neither authorization is typically available in practice to interconnected VoIP providers. Thus, as a practical matter, generally only telecommunications carriers are able to provide the proof of authorization required under our rules, and thus able to obtain numbers directly from the numbering administrators. This Order establishes an authorization process to enable interconnected VoIP providers that choose direct access to request numbers directly from the numbering administrators. Next, the Order sets forth several conditions designed to minimize number exhaust and preserve the integrity of the numbering system.
The Order requires interconnected VoIP providers obtaining numbers to comply with the same requirements applicable to carriers seeking to obtain numbers. These requirements include any State requirements pursuant to numbering authority delegated to the States by the Commission, as well as industry guidelines and practices, among others. The Order also requires interconnected VoIP providers to comply with facilities readiness requirements adapted to this context, and with numbering utilization and optimization requirements. As conditions to requesting and obtaining numbers directly from the numbering administrators, interconnected VoIP providers are also required to: (1) provide the relevant State commissions with regulatory and numbering contacts when requesting numbers in those states; (2) request numbers from the numbering administrators under their own unique OCN; (3) file any requests for numbers with the relevant State commissions at least 30 days prior to requesting numbers from the numbering administrators; and (4) provide customers with the opportunity to access all abbreviated dialing codes (N11 numbers) in use in a geographic area.
The Order also modifies Commission's rules in order to permit VoIP Positioning Center (VPC) providers to obtain pseudo-Automatic Number Identification (p-ANI) codes directly from the numbering administrators for purposes of providing E911 services.
Based on experiences and review of the direct access authorization process established by the 2015 Order, the Commission adopted a FNPRM which proposes clarifications and revisions to the Commission's rules to better ensure that interconnected VoIP providers that obtain direct access authorization to not facilitate illegal robocalls, spoofing, or fraud, pose national security risks, or evade or abuse intercarrier compensation requirements. The FNPRM proposes to require additional certifications as part of the direct access authorization applications process, that would include certification of compliance with anti-robocalling obligations. The FNPRM also proposes to clarify that applicants disclose foreign ownership information on their direct access application. It would also propose to generally refer those applications with 10% or greater foreign ownership to the Executive Branch agencies for their review, consistent with the Commission's referral of other types of applications. The FNPRM also propose to clarify that holders of a direct access authorization must update the Commission and applicable states within 30 days of changes to ownership information submitted to the Commission. The FNPRM further proposes to clarify that Commission staff retain the authority to determine when to accept filings as complete and proposes to direct Commission staff to reject an application if an applicant has engaged in behavior contrary to the public interest or has been found to originate or transmit illegal robocalls. Finally, the FNPRM seeks comment on whether to expand the direct access authorization to one-way VoIP providers or other entities that use numbering resources.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 06/19/13 | 78 FR 36725 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 07/19/13 | |
| R&O | 10/29/15 | 80 FR 66454 |
| FNPRM (Release Date) | 08/06/21 | 86 FR 51081 |
| FNPRM (Comment Period End) | 10/14/21 | 86 FR 51081 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
[top] Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jordan Marie Reth, Attorney-Advisor (PU), Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1418, Email: jordan.reth@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK36
330. Implementation of the Universal Service Portions of the 1996 Telecommunications Act [3060-AK57]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 et seq.
Abstract: The Telecommunications Act of 1996 expanded the traditional goal of universal service to include increased access to both telecommunications and advanced services such as high-speed internet for all consumers at just, reasonable and affordable rates. The Act established principles for universal service that specifically focused on increasing access to evolving services for consumers living in rural and insular areas, and for consumers with low-incomes. Additional principles called for increased access to high-speed internet in the nation's schools, libraries, and rural healthcare facilities. The FCC established four programs within the Universal Service Fund to implement the statute: Connect America Fund (formally known as High-Cost Support) for rural areas; Lifeline (for low-income consumers), including initiatives to expand phone service for Native Americans; Schools and Libraries (E-rate); and Rural Healthcare.
The Universal Service Fund is paid for by contributions from telecommunications carriers, including wireline and wireless companies, and interconnected Voice over internet Protocol (VoIP) providers, including cable companies that provide voice service, based on an assessment on their interstate and international end-user revenues. The Universal Service Administrative Company, or USAC, administers the four programs and collects monies for the Universal Service Fund under the direction of the FCC.
On October 28, 2022, the Commission proposed extending Universal Service support for mobile and fixed providers beyond 2023.
On November 23, 2022, the Commission sought comments on petitions that permit the use of E-Rate funds to support advanced or next-generation firewalls, services and network security services.
On February 17, 2023, the Commission proposed simplifying rules for accessing program offering High Speed internet for Schools and Libraries.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| R&O and FNPRM | 01/13/17 | 82 FR 4275 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 02/13/17 | |
| NPRM Reply Comment Period End | 02/27/17 | |
| R&O and Order on Recon | 03/21/17 | 82 FR 14466 |
| Order on Recon | 05/19/17 | 82 FR 22901 |
| Order on Recon | 06/08/17 | 82 FR 26653 |
| Memorandum, Opinion & Order | 06/21/17 | 82 FR 228224 |
| NPRM | 07/30/19 | 84 FR 36865 |
| NPRM | 08/21/19 | 84 FR 43543 |
| R&O and Order on Recon | 11/07/19 | 84 FR 59937 |
| Order on Recon | 12/09/19 | 84 FR 67220 |
| R&O | 12/20/19 | 84 FR 70026 |
| R&O | 12/27/19 | 84 FR 71308 |
| R&O | 01/17/20 | 85 FR 3044 |
| Report & Order | 03/10/20 | 85 FR 13773 |
| Report & Order | 05/11/20 | 85 FR 19892 |
| Declaratory Ruling/2nd FNPRM | 08/04/20 | 85 FR 48134 |
| Public Notice | 03/22/21 | 86 FR 15172 |
| Report & Order on Recon | 04/09/21 | 86 FR 18459 |
| R&O | 05/28/21 | 86 FR 29136 |
| 2nd R&O | 07/14/21 | 86 FR 37061 |
| Public Notice | 08/02/21 | 86 FR 41408 |
| NPRM | 10/14/21 | 86 FR 57097 |
| Order | 12/14/21 | 86 FR 70983 |
| NPRM | 01/27/22 | 87 FR 4182 |
| FNPRM | 03/15/22 | 87 FR 14422 |
| NPRM | 06/16/22 | 87 FR 36283 |
| NPRM | 06/23/22 | 87 FR 37459 |
| 2nd R&O | 09/06/22 | 87 FR 54311 |
| 3rd R&O | 09/06/22 | 87 FR 54401 |
| Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking | 11/19/22 | 87 FR 67660 |
| Public Notice | 01/06/23 | 88 FR 1035 |
| Notice of Proposed Rulemaking | 03/09/23 | 88 FR 14529 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Nakesha Woodward, Program Analyst, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1502, Email: kesha.woodward@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AK57
331. Toll Free Assignment Modernization and Toll Free Service Access Codes: WC Docket No. 17-192, CC Docket No. 95-155 [3060-AK91]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 251(e)(1)
Abstract: In this Report and Order (Order), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiates an auction to distribute certain toll free numbers. The numbers to be auctioned will be in the new 833 toll free code for which there have been multiple, competing requests.
By using an auction, the FCC will ensure that sought-after numbers are awarded to the parties that value them most. In addition, the FCC will reserve certain 833 numbers for distribution to government and non-profit entities that request them for public health and safety purposes. The FCC will study the results of the auction to determine how to best use the mechanism to distribute toll-free numbers equitably and efficiently in the future as well. Revenues from the auction will be used to defray the cost of toll-free numbering administration, reducing the cost of numbering for all users. The Order establishing the toll-free number auction will also authorize and accommodate the use of a secondary market for numbers awarded at auction to further distribute these numbers to the entities that value them most. The Order also adopted several definitional and technical updates to improve clarity and flexibility in toll-free number assignment.
The Commission sought comment and then adopted auctions procedures and deadlines on August 2, 2019. Bidding for the auction occurred on December 17, 2019, and Somos issued an announcement of the winning bidders on December 20, 2019. On December 16, 2019, to facilitate the preparation of its study of the auction, the Bureau charged the North American Numbering Council, via its Toll Free Access Modernization Working Group, to issue a report evaluating various aspects of the 833 Auction, and recommending improvements for any future toll free number auctions.
On January 16, 2020, Somos released all of the 833 Auction data for public review. On March 13, 2020, the Bureau invited public comment on the 833 Auction in preparation for issuing a report on the lessons learned from the Auction. Comments were due on April 13, 2020. On July 14, 2020, the North American Numbering Council approved the Toll Free Assignment Modernization Working Group's report, Perspectives on the December 2019 Auction of Numbers in the 833 Numbering Plan Area.
[top] On January 15, 2021, the Bureau released a report that examined various aspects of this toll free number assignment experiment, including lessons learned, examination of auction outcomes, and recommendations for future toll free number assignment. The Bureau concluded that the 833 Auction was a successful experiment that provided invaluable experience and data that can facilitate further
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 10/13/17 | 82 FR 47669 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 11/13/17 | |
| Final Rule | 10/23/18 | 83 FR 53377 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Heather Hendrickson, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7295, Email: heather.hendrickson@fcc.gov.
Matthew Collins, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7141, Email: matthew.collins@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK91
332. Establishing the Digital Opportunity Data Collection; WC Docket Nos. 19-195 and 11-10 [3060-AK93]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 35 to 39; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 211; 47 U.S.C. 219; 47 U.S.C. 220; 47 U.S.C. 402(b)2(B); Pub. L. 104-104; 47 U.S.C. 151-154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 641 to 646; Pub. L 116-130; . . .
Abstract: The Commission has long recognized that precise, granular data on the availability of fixed and mobile broadband are vital to bringing digital opportunity to all Americans, no matter where they live, work, or travel.
On March 23, 2020, the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability Act (Broadband DATA Act) was signed into law requiring the Commission to create a new set of broadband availability maps. Among other things, the Broadband DATA Act requires the Commission to collect standardized, granular data on the availability and quality of both fixed and mobile broadband internet access services, to create a common dataset of all locations where fixed broadband internet access service can be installed (the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric or Fabric), and to create publicly available coverage maps. The Act further requires the Commission to establish processes for members of the public and other entities to (1) provide verified data for use in the coverage maps; (2) challenge the coverage maps, the broadband availability data submitted by broadband internet access service providers (providers), and the Fabric; and (3) submit specific crowdsource information about the development and availability of broadband service.
In July 2020, implementing the Broadband DATA Act and building off of an August 2019 Report and Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order and Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that adopted rules for the collection and verification of improved, more precise data on both fixed and mobile broadband availability. In January 2021, the Commission released a Third Report and Order that established new requirements for the BDC and took additional steps to implement the Broadband DATA Act. The Commission adopted rules to specify which fixed and mobile providers are required to report broadband availability data and expanded the reporting and certification requirements for filing data in the BDC. It also adopted standards for collecting verified broadband data from State, local, and Tribal entities and certain third parties, and for identifying locations that would be included in the Fabric. Importantly, in the Third Report and Order, the Commission also established processes for verifying the accuracy of provider-submitted data and the Fabric, including a third party challenge process.
Implementing the Broadband DATA Act and these new rules, the Commission created a complex data platform and system to collect and map availability data collected from over 2500 providers and for consumers and other stakeholders to submit challenges to that data; established the Fabric dataset of locations upon which to overlay provider availability data; and established a dedicated help center to provide technical assistance to providers, consumers and other stakeholders.
In July 2021, the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB), Office of Economics and Analytics (OEA), and Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) released a Public Notice seeking comment on the technical requirements for the mobile challenge, verification, and crowdsourcing processes required under the Broadband DATA Act for the new Broadband Data Collection (BDC). In March 2022, the Broadband Data Task Force (Task Force), WTB, OEA, and OET released a detailed order, technical appendix, rules, and technical data specifications setting forth technical requirements and specifications for the mobile challenge, verification, and crowdsource processes required by the Act.
To help facilitate the mobile challenge process, in April 2022, the Task Force and OET issued a Public Notice announcing the technical requirements and procedures for approving third-party mobile speed test procedures for use in collecting and submitting mobile network performance data as part of the BDC. To assist entities that choose to file mobile challenges in bulk, in September 2022 the Task Force and WTB established a process for entities to use their own software and hardware to collect on-the-ground mobile speed test data for use in the BDC mobile challenge process.
Also in April 2022, the Task Force, WCB, WTB, OEA, and OET released a Public Notice providing details on the procedures for state, local, and Tribal governmental entities to submit verified availability data through the BDC system.
Seeking to clarify the Commission's rules for filing data in the BDC, in July 2022 WCB, WTB, OEA, and the Task Force issued a Declaratory Ruling on certain aspects of a rule regarding the engineering certification in BDC filings and issued a limited waiver of the requirement that providers have an engineer certification their biannual BDC filings for the first three filing cycles of the BDC.
On June 15, 2022, the FCC Enforcement Bureau issued an Enforcement Advisory reminding all facilities-based providers of their duty to timely file complete and accurate data in the BDC by September 1, 2022.
In February 2022, the Commission announced the opening of the initial filing window of the BDC would open on June 30, 2022, and was due no later than September 1, 2022. In December 2022, the Commission announced that the second filing window of the BDC would open on January 3, 2023, and required all fixed and mobile providers to submit broadband availability data as of December 31, 2022, and was due no later than March 1, 2023.
[top] In November 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of its new National Broadband Map based on version 1 of the Fabric and the availability data submitted by providers as of June 30, 2022. The new map is the most comprehensive, granular, and standardized data the Commission has ever published on broadband availability.
The Commission adopted an Order in December 2022, to sunset the Form 477 broadband deployment data collection and eliminate a largely duplicative requirement on providers. As a result, providers will no longer be required to submit Form 477 broadband deployment data, but must still submit broadband and voice subscription data using the FCC Form 477; those filers will submit their data through the BDC system.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 08/03/17 | 82 FR 40118 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/25/17 | |
| Report & Order | 08/01/19 | 84 FR 43705 |
| Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking | 08/01/19 | 84 FR 43764 |
| Second Further NPRM Comment Period End | 10/07/19 | |
| 2nd R&O | 07/16/20 | 85 FR 50886 |
| 3rd FNPRM | 07/16/20 | 85 FR 50911 |
| 3rd FNPRM Comment Period End | 09/08/20 | |
| 3rd R&O | 01/13/21 | 86 FR 18124 |
| Public Notice | 07/16/21 | 86 FR 40398 |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 09/27/21 | |
| Order | 03/09/22 | 87 FR 21476 |
| Order | 12/16/22 | 87 FR 76949 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael Ray, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0357, Email: michael.ray@fcc.gov.
RIN: 3060-AK93
333. Call Authentication Trust Anchor [3060-AL00]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 227b; 47 U.S.C. 503
Abstract: On June 6, 2019, the Commission adopted a Declaratory Ruling and Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (CG Docket No. 17-59, WC Docket No. 17-97) that proposed and sought comment on mandating implementation of STIR/SHAKEN in the event that major voice service providers did not voluntarily implement the framework by the end of 2019.
On December 30, 2019, Congress enacted the Pallone-Thune Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act. Along with numerous other provisions directed at addressing robocalls, the TRACED Act directs the Commission to require all voice service providers to implement STIR/SHAKEN in the Internet Protocol (IP) portions of their networks, and to implement an effective caller ID authentication framework in the non-IP portions of their networks. The TRACED Act further creates processes by which voice service providers may be exempt from this mandate if the Commission determines they have achieved certain implementation benchmarks, and by which voice service providers may be granted a delay in compliance based on a finding of undue hardship because of burdens or barriers to implementation or based on a delay in development of a caller ID authentication protocol for calls delivered over non-IP networks.
On March 31, 2020, the Commission adopted a Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (WC Docket Nos. 17-97, 20-67). The Report and Order mandated that all originating and terminating voice service providers implement the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework in the IP portions of their networks by June 30, 2021. In the Further Notice the Commission sought comment on proposals to further promote caller ID authentication and implement the TRACED Act.
On September 29, 2020, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order (WC Docket No. 17-97). The Second Report and Order implemented rules (1) granting extensions for compliance with the STIR/SHAKEN implementation mandate for small voice service providers, voice service providers that cannot obtain a SPC token from the Governance Authority, services scheduled for section 214 discontinuance, for those portions of a voice service provider's network that rely on non-IP technology, and establishing a process for individual voice service providers to seek provider specific extensions; (2) requiring voice service providers using non-IP technology either to upgrade their networks to IP to enable STIR/SHAKEN implementation, or work to develop non-IP caller ID authentication technology and implement a robocall mitigation program in the interim; (3) establishing a process where by a voice service provider may be exempt from the STIR/SHAKEN implementation mandate if the provider has achieved certain implementation benchmarks; (4) prohibiting voice service providers from imposing line item charges on consumer and small business subscribers for caller ID authentication; and (5) requiring intermediate providers to implement STIR/SHAKEN. On May 20, 2021, the Commissioned released a Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to shorten the small provider extension from two years to one for a subset of small voice service providers that are at a heightened risk of originating an especially large amount of robocall traffic.
On January 13, 2021, the Commission adopted a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing and seeking comment on a limited role for the Commission to oversee certificate revocation decisions by the private STIR/SHAKEN Governance Authority that would have the effect of placing providers in noncompliance with the Commission's rules. On August 5, 2021, the Commission adopted a Third Report and Order which adopted rules creating this oversight role.
On September 30, 2021, the Commission adopted a Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to require gateway providers to apply STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication to, and perform robocall mitigation on, foreign-originated calls with U.S. numbers, seeking comment on revisions to the information that filers must submit to the Robocall Mitigation Database, and clarifying the obligations of voice service providers and intermediate providers with respect to calls to and from Public Safety Answer Points and other emergency services providers.
On December 9, 2021, the Commission adopted a Fourth Report and Order adopting rules requiring non-facilities based small voice providers implement SITR/SHAKEN by June 30, 2022, and requiring small voice providers of any kind suspected of originating illegal robocalls to implement STIR/SHAKEN on an accelerated timeline.
[top] On May 19, 2022, the Commission adopted a Fifth Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration, Order, and Fifth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The Fifth Report and Order and Order required gateway providers to submit a certification to the Robocall Mitigation Database, implement STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication as well as several other requirements, including an obligation to mitigate illegal robocall traffic and submit a mitigation plan to the Robocall Mitigation Database regardless of their STIR/SHAKEN implementation status. The Order on Reconsideration expanded the obligation of domestic providers to block calls carrying US NANP numbers from foreign providers not listed in the
On March 16, 2023, the Commission adopted a Sixth Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The Sixth Report and Order required intermediate providers to implement STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication for certain calls, expanded robocall mitigation requirements for all providers, and adopted more robust enforcement tools. The Sixth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks comment on additional measures to combat illegal robocalls, including whether any changes should be made to the Commission's rules to permit, prohibit, or limit the use of third-party caller ID authentication solutions and whether to eliminate the STIR/SHAKEN implementation extension for providers that cannot obtain Service Provider Code tokens, which are necessary to participate in the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework".
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NOI | 07/14/17 | |
| DR and 3rd FNPRM | 06/06/19 | 84 FR 29478 |
| NPRM | 06/24/19 | 84 FR 29478 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 08/23/19 | |
| 3rd FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/23/19 | |
| R&O and FNPRM | 03/31/20 | 85 FR 22029 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 05/29/20 | |
| 2nd R&O | 09/29/20 | 85 FR 73360 |
| 2nd FNPRM | 01/13/21 | 86 FR 9894 |
| 2nd FNPRM Comment Period | 03/19/21 | |
| 3rd FNPRM | 05/20/21 | 86 FR 30571 |
| 3rd R&O | 08/05/21 | 86 FR 48511 |
| 3rd FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/19/21 | |
| 4th FNPRM | 10/01/21 | 86 FR 59084 |
| 4th FNPRM Comment Period End | 11/26/21 | |
| 4th R&O | 12/09/21 | |
| 5th R&O, Order on Reconsideration | 05/19/22 | 87 FR 42916 |
| 5th FNPRM | 05/19/22 | 87 FR 42670 |
| 5th FNPRM Comment Period End | 05/19/22 | |
| 6th FNPRM | 03/16/23 | |
| 6th Report and Order | 03/17/23 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jonathan Lechter, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0984, Email: jonathan.lechter@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL00
334. Implementation of the National Suicide Improvement Act of 2018 [3060-AL01]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: On August 14, 2018, Congress passed the National Suicide Hotline Improvement Act (Act). Public Law 115-233, 132 Stat. 2424 (2018). The purpose of the Act was to study and report on the feasibility of designating a 3-digit dialing code to be used for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system by considering each of the current N11 designations. The Act directed the Commission to: (1) conduct a study that examines the feasibility of designating a simple, easy-to-remember, 3-digit dialing code to be used for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system; and (2) analyze how well the current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is working to address the needs of veterans. The Act also directed the Commission to coordinate with the Department of Health and Human Services' Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and the North American Numbering Council (NANC) in conducting the study, and to produce a report on the study by August 14, 2019.
On August 14, 2019, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Office of Economics and Analytics submitted its report to Congress recommending that: (1) a 3-digit dialing code be used for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system; and (2) the Commission should initiate a rulemaking proceeding to consider designating 988 as the 3-digit code.
On December 12, 2019, the Commission released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) proposing to designate 988 as a new, nationwide, 3-digit dialing code for a suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline. WC Docket No. 18-336. The NPRM proposes that calls made to 988 be directed to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is made up of an expansive network of over 170 crisis centers located across the United States, and to the Veterans Crisis Line. The NPRM also proposes to require all telecommunications carriers and interconnected VoIP service providers to make, within 18 months, any changes necessary to ensure that users can dial 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Veterans Crisis Line.
On July 16, 2020, the Commission adopted an Order designating 988 as the 3-digit number to reach the Lifeline and Veterans Crisis Line (800-273-TALK or 800-273-8255) and requiring all telecommunications carriers, interconnected voice over internet Protocol (VoIP) providers, and one-way VoIP providers to make any network changes necessary to ensure that users can dial 988 to reach the Lifeline by July 16, 2022.
On October 16, 2020, the Communications Equality Advocates filed a petition for partial reconsideration of the FCC's July 16, 2020 Report and Order. In their petition, Communications Equality Advocates requested that the FCC revise the Order to mandate text-to-988 and direct video calling (DVC) requirements and to have such requirements be implemented on the same timeline as voice calls to 988, by July 16, 2022.
On October 17, 2020, Congress enacted the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 (2020 Act). Public Law 116-172, 134 Stat. 832 (2020). The 2020 Act, among other things, designates 988 as the universal telephone number within the United States for the purpose of the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system operating through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline," with designation occurring one year after enactment.
On November 9, 2020, pursuant to 2020 Act's requirements that the Commission submit a report on the feasibility and cost of attaching an automatic dispatchable location with 988 calls, the Commission issued a Public Notice that sought comment on these issues.
[top] On April 22, 2021 the Commission adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) that proposes to require text service providers support text messages to 988 by routing texts to the toll free number.
On November 19, 2020, pursuant to 2020 Act's requirements that the Commission submit a report on the feasibility and cost of attaching an automatic dispatchable location with 988 calls, the Commission issued a Public Notice that sought comment on these issues. A Report to Congress regarding geolocation was released on April 15, 2021.
On April 22, 2021 the Commission adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) that proposes to require text service providers support text messages to 988 by routing texts to the toll free number. On November 19, 2021, the Commission adopted an Order requiring the industry to enable texting to 988 by the same deadline as for voice calls, July 16, 2022.
On May 24, 2022, the Commission, following up on its report to Congress, hosted a forum in coordination with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that convened various stakeholders to discuss issues surrounding geolocation. Participants included state and local entities; suicide prevention and mental health experts and advocates; communications industry leaders; and technical experts. The Commission opened the event to the public via live feed on the Commission's website, and audience members submitted questions to panelists by email.
On October 14, 2022, in accordance with the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau submitted its first 988 Fee Accountability Report to Congress reporting on the collection and distribution of 988 fees and charges by the states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and Tribal authorities for the period of January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
On January 26, 2023, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to help ensure that the public has access to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline if a service outage occurs.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/15/20 | 85 FR 2359 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/16/20 | |
| Report & Order | 07/16/20 | |
| PFR | 10/16/20 | |
| Oppositions Due | 12/02/20 | |
| Public Notice | 12/08/20 | 85 FR 79014 |
| Replies Due | 12/14/20 | |
| Public Notice Comment Period End | 01/11/21 | |
| FNPRM | 06/11/21 | 86 FR 31404 |
| FNPRM Comment Period End | 08/10/21 | |
| Report & Order | 11/19/21 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michelle Sclater, Attorney, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0388, Email: michelle.sclater@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL01
335. Modernizing Unbundling and Resale Requirements in an Era of Next-Generation Networks and Services [3060-AL02]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 10; 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: On November 22, 2019, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) seeking comment on proposals to update the unbundling and avoided-cost resale obligations stemming from the 1996 Act and applicable only to incumbent LECs. Many of these obligations appear to no longer be necessary in many geographic areas due to vigorous competition for mass market broadband services in urban areas and numerous intermodal voice capabilities and services. But recognizing that rural areas pose special challenges for broadband deployment, the NPRM did not propose any change to unbundling requirements for broadband-capable loops in rural areas. The NPRM sought to promote the Commission's efforts to reduce unnecessary and outdated regulatory burdens that appear to discourage the deployment of next-generation networks, delay the IP transition, unnecessarily burden incumbent LECs with no similar obligations placed on their competitors, and no longer benefit consumers or serve the purpose for which they were intended.
On October 27, 2020, the Commission adopted a Report and Order (1) eliminating unbundling requirements, subject to a reasonable transition period, for enterprise-grade DS1 and DS3 loops where there is evidence of actual and potential competition, for broadband-capable DS0 loops and associated subloops in the most densely populated areas, and for voice-grade narrowband loops nationwide, but preserving unbundling requirements for DS0 loops in less densely populated areas and DS1 and DS3 loops in areas without sufficient evidence of competition; (2) eliminating unbundling requirements for network interface devices and multiunit premises subloops; (3) eliminating unbundled dark fiber transport provisioned from wire centers within a half-mile of competitive fiber networks, but providing an eight-year transition period for existing circuits so as to avoid stranding investment and last-mile deployment by competitive LECs that may harm consumers; (4) eliminating unbundling requirements for operations support systems, except where carriers are continuing to manage UNEs and for purposes of local interconnection and local number portability; and (5) eliminating remaining avoided-cost resale requirements. The Report and Order ended unbundling and resale requirements where they stifle technology transitions and broadband deployment, but preserved unbundling requirements where they are still necessary to realize the 1996 Act's goal of robust intermodal competition benefiting all Americans.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 01/06/20 | 85 FR 472 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 03/06/20 | |
| Report & Order | 01/08/21 | 86 FR 1636 |
| Petition for Reconsideration filed by Sonic Telecom | 09/29/22 | |
| Replies to Oppositions to Petition for Reconsideration | 10/04/22 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michele Berlove, Assistant Division Chief, Competition Policy Div., WCB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1477, Email: michele.berlove@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL02
336. Establishing a 5G Fund for Rural America; GN Docket No. 20-32 [3060-AL15]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 403
[top] Abstract: The 5G Fund for Rural America will distribute up to $9 billion in universal service support through competitive bidding in two phases to bring mobile voice and 5G broadband service to rural areas of the country. 5G public interest obligations and
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NPRM | 05/26/20 | 85 FR 31616 |
| Final Action | 11/25/20 | 85 FR 75770x |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Kirk Burgee, Chief of Staff, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1599, Email: kirk.burgee@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL15
337. Improving Competitive Broadband Access to Multiple Tenant Environments [3060-AL35]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151-54, 201(b), 303(r), 521(4), 521(6), 544(i), and 548
Abstract: In June 2017, the Commission issued a Notice of Inquiry seeking comment on the state of broadband competition in multiple tenant environments (MTEs) and whether additional Commission action in this area is warranted to eliminate or reduce barriers faced by broadband providers that seek to serve MTE occupants. In July 2019, the Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking further targeted comment on a variety of issues that may affect the provisioning of broadband to MTEs, including exclusive marketing and wiring arrangements, revenue sharing agreements, state and local regulations, and the Commission's legal authority to address broadband, telecommunications, and video deployment and competition in MTEs. In February 2022, the Commission adopted a Report and Order and Declaratory Ruling that (1) adopted new rules prohibiting providers from entering into certain types of revenue sharing agreements that are used to evade our existing rules; (2) adopted new rules requiring providers to disclose the existence of exclusive marketing arrangements in simple, easy-to-understand language; and (3) clarified that existing Commission rules regarding cable inside wiring prohibit so-called sale-and-leaseback arrangements which effectively deny access to alternative providers. In taking these actions, the Commission is promoting tenant choice and competition in the provision of communications services to the benefit of those who live and work in MTEs.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| Notice of Inquiry | 06/22/17 | |
| Notice of Inquiry Comment Period End | 08/22/17 | |
| NPRM | 07/31/19 | 84 FR 37219 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 09/30/19 | |
| Report & Order, Declaratory Ruling | 03/28/22 | 87 FR 17181 |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Matthew Collins, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7141, Email: matthew.collins@fcc.gov .
RIN: 3060-AL35
338. Supporting Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence (WC Docket No. 22-238,11-42, 21-450) [3060-AL48]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151.201(b); 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 309; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 345; 47 U.S.C. 403 and sec. 5(b); Pub. L. 117-223 and 136 Stat. 2280
Abstract: On July 14, 2022, the Commission initiated an inquiry into steps that the Commission could take to assist survivors of domestic violence. In the Notice of Inquiry, the Commission sought information on the scope of connectivity-based difficulties survivors face, as well as potential means by which current Commission programs could be better adapted and new programs could be developed to address survivors' needs. In particular, the Commission sought comment relating to potentially developing a centralized database of telephone numbers relating to domestic abuse support that could be used by service providers to prevent survivors' communications with support organizations from appearing on logs of calls and text messages that may be available to abusers.
In the NPRM, the Commission begins the process of implementing the Safe Connections Act of 2022 (Safe Connections Act), enacted on December 7, 2022. The legislation amends the Communications Act of 1934 (Communications Act) to require mobile service providers to separate the line of a survivor of domestic violence (and other related crimes and abuse), and any individuals in the care of the survivor, from a mobile service contract shared with an abuser within two business days after receiving a request from the survivor. The Safe Connections Act also directs the Commission to issue rules, within 18 months of the statute's enactment, implementing the line separation requirement. Further, the legislation also requires the Commission to open a rulemaking within 180 days of enactment to consider whether to, and how the Commission should, establish a central database of domestic abuse hotlines to be used by service providers and require such providers to omit, subject to certain conditions, any records of calls or text messages to the hotlines from consumer-facing call and text message logs. The NPRM proposes rules as directed by these statutory requirements.
Timetable:
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
|---|---|---|
| NOI | 08/18/22 | |
| Comment Period End | 08/18/22 | |
| Reply Comment Period End | 09/19/22 | |
| NPRM | 02/17/23 | 88 FR 15558 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/10/23 | |
| Reply Comment Period End | 05/10/23 | |
| Next Action Undetermined |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Edward Kracher, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1525.
RIN: 3060-AL48
[FR Doc. 2023-14555 Filed 7-26-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6712-01-P