# Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions-Spring 2017

> Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more.

URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A2017-16981

## Record

- **Collection:** Federal Register
- **Document type:** Proposed Rule
- **Published:** August 24, 2017
- **Citation:** 82 FR 40397

## Text

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
47 CFR Ch. I
Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions—Spring 2017

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. (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, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Maura McGowan, Telecommunications Policy Specialist, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554, (202) 418-0990.

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)
—issued by the Commission when it is seeking information on a broad subject or trying to generate ideas on a given topic. A comment period is specified during which all interested parties may submit comments.

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
—issued by the Commission when it is proposing a specific change to Commission rules and regulations. Before any changes are actually made, interested parties may submit written comments on the proposed revisions.

Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM)
—issued by the Commission when additional comment in the proceeding is sought.

Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O)
—issued by the Commission to deny a petition for rulemaking, conclude an inquiry, modify a decision, or address a petition for reconsideration of a decision.

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)
—issued by the Commission to state a new or amended rule or state that the Commission rules and regulations will not be revised.

Marlene H. Dortch,
Secretary, Federal Communications Commission.

Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

277
Implementation of the Telecom Act of 1996; Access to Telecommunications Service, Telecommunications Equipment, and Customer Premises Equipment by Persons With Disabilities (WT Docket No. 96-198)
3060-AG58

278
Rules and Regulations Implementing the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) of 1991 (CG Docket No. 02-278)
3060-AI14

279
Rules and Regulations Implementing Section 225 of the Communications Act (Telecommunications Relay Service) (CG Docket No. 03-123)
3060-AI15

280
Consumer Information, Disclosure, and Truth in Billing and Billing Format
3060-AI61

281
Closed-Captioning of Video Programming; CG Docket Nos. 05-231 and 06-181 (Section 610 Review)
3060-AI72

282
Accessibility of Programming Providing Emergency Information; MB Docket No. 12-107
3060-AI75

283
Empowering Consumers to Avoid Bill Shock (Docket No. 10-207)
3060-AJ51

284
Contributions to the Telecommunications Relay Services Fund (CG Docket No. 11-47)
3060-AJ63

285
Empowering Consumers to Prevent and Detect Billing for Unauthorized Charges (“Cramming”)
3060-AJ72

286
Implementation of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012/Establishment of a Public Safety Answering Point Do-Not-Call Registry
3060-AJ84

287
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

288
Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Captioned Telephone Service; Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services; CG Docket No. 13-24
3060-AK01

289
Transition From TTY to Real-Time Text Technology (GN Docket No. 15-178)
3060-AK58

Office of Engineering and Technology—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

290
New Advanced Wireless Services (ET Docket No. 00-258)
3060-AH65

291
Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (ET Docket No. 10-97)
3060-AI17

292
Unlicensed Operation in the TV Broadcast Bands (ET Docket No. 04-186)
3060-AI52

293
Fixed and Mobile Services in the Mobile Satellite Service (ET Docket No. 10-142)
3060-AJ46

294
Operation of Radar Systems in the 76-77 GHz Band (ET Docket No. 11-90)
3060-AJ68

295
Federal Earth Stations-Non Federal Fixed Satellite Service Space Stations; Spectrum for Non-Federal Space Launch Operations; ET Docket No. 13-115
3060-AK09

296
Authorization of Radiofrequency Equipment; ET Docket No. 13-44
3060-AK10

297
Operation of Radar Systems in the 76-77 GHz Band (ET Docket No. 15-26)
3060-AK29

298
Spectrum Access for Wireless Microphone Operations (GN Docket Nos. 14-166 and 12-268)
3060-AK30

Office of Engineering and Technology—Completed Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

299
Radio Experimentation and Market Trials Under Part 5 of the Commission's Rules and Streamlining Other Related Rules (ET Docket No. 10-236)
3060-AJ62

300
WRC-07 Implementation (ET Docket No. 12-338)
3060-AJ93

International Bureau—Final Rule Stage

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

301
Comprehensive Review of Licensing and Operating Rules for Satellite Services (IB Docket No. 12-267)
3060-AJ98

International Bureau—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

302
International Settlements Policy Reform (IB Docket No. 11-80)
3060-AJ77

303
Expanding Broadband and Innovation Through Air-Ground Mobile Broadband Secondary Service for Passengers Aboard Aircraft in the 14.0-14.5 GHz Band; GN Docket No. 13-114
3060-AK02

304
Terrestrial Use of the 2473-2495 MHz Band for Low-Power Mobile Broadband Networks; Amendments to Rules of Mobile Satellite Service System; IB Docket No. 13-213
3060-AK16

305
Review of Foreign Ownership Policies for Broadcast, Common Carrier and Aeronautical Radio Licensees Under Section 310(b)(4) of the Communications Act of 1934, as Amended (Docket No. 15-236)
3060-AK47

306
Update to Parts 2 and 25 Concerning NonGeostationary, Fixed-Satellite Service Systems and Related Matters; IB Docket No. I6-408
3060-AK59

International Bureau—Completed Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

307
Space Station Licensing Reform (IB Docket No. 02-34)
3060-AH98

Media Bureau—Proposed Rule Stage

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

308
Authorizing Permissive Use of the “Next Generation” Broadcast Television Standard (GN Docket No. 16-142)
3060-AK56

Media Bureau—Final Rule Stage

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

309
Channel Sharing by Full Power and Class A Stations Outside of the Incentive Auction Context; (MB Docket No. 15-137)
3060-AK42

Media Bureau—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

310
Broadcast Ownership Rules
3060-AH97

311
Establishment of Rules for Digital Low-Power Television, Television Translator, and Television Booster Stations (MB Docket No. 03-185)
3060-AI38

312
Promoting Diversification of Ownership in the Broadcast Services (MB Docket No. 07-294)
3060-AJ27

313
Closed Captioning of Internet Protocol-Delivered Video Programming: Implementation of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (MB Docket No. 11-154)
3060-AJ67

314
Noncommercial Educational Station Fundraising for Third-Party Nonprofit Organizations (MB Docket No. 12-106)
3060-AJ79

315
Accessibility of User Interfaces and Video Programming Guides and Menus (MB Docket No. 12-108)
3060-AK11

316
Revision to Public Inspection Requirements (MB Docket No. 16-161)
3060-AK50

Office of Managing Director—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

317
Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees for Fiscal Year 2016
3060-AK53

Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

318
Revision of the Rules To Ensure Compatibility With Enhanced 911 Emergency Calling Systems (CC Docket No. 94-102; PS Docket No. 07-114)
3060-AG34

319
Enhanced 911 Services for Wireline and Multi-Line Telephone Systems; PS Docket Nos. 10-255 and 07-114
3060-AG60

320
Implementation of 911 Act (CC Docket No. 92-105, WT Docket No. 00-110)
3060-AH90

321
Commission Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications (PS Docket No. 11-82)
3060-AI22

322
E911 Requirements for IP-Enabled Service Providers (Dockets Nos. GN 11-117, PS 07-114, WC 05-196, WC 04-36)
3060-AI62

323
Wireless E911 Location Accuracy Requirements; PS Docket No. 07-114
3060-AJ52

324
Proposed Amendments to Service Rules Governing Public Safety Narrowband Operations in the 769-775 and 799-805 MHz Bands; PS Docket No. 13-87
3060-AK19

325
Improving Outage Reporting for Submarine Cables and Enhancing Submarine Cable Outage Data; GN Docket No. 15-206
3060-AK39

326
Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; PS Docket No. 15-80
3060-AK40

327
New Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; ET Docket No. 04-35
3060-AK41

328
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA); PS Docket No. 15-91
3060-AK54

Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau—Completed Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

329
700 MHz Public Safety Broadband—First Net (PS Docket Nos. 12-94 & 06-229 and WT 06-150)
3060-AJ99

330
Amendment of Part 90 of the Commission's Rules To Enable Railroad Police Officers to Access Public Safety Interoperability and Mutual Aid Channels
3060-AK51

Wireless Telecommunications Bureau—Final Rule Stage

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

331
Promoting Technological Solutions to Combat Wireless Contraband Device Use in Correctional Facilities; GN Docket No. 13-111
3060-AK06

332
800 MHz Cellular Telecommunications Licensing Reform; Docket No. 12-40
3060-AK13

333
Updating Part 1 Competitive Bidding Rules (WT Docket No. 14-170)
3060-AK28

Wireless Telecommunications Bureau—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

334
Reexamination of Roaming Obligations of Commercial Mobile Radio Service Providers
3060-AH83

335
Review of Part 87 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Aviation (WT Docket No. 01-289)
3060-AI35

336
Implementation of the Commercial Spectrum Enhancement Act (CSEA) and Modernization of the Commission's Competitive Bidding Rules and Procedures (WT Docket No. 05-211)
3060-AI88

337
Facilitating the Provision of Fixed and Mobile Broadband Access, Educational, and Other Advanced Services in the 2150-2162 and 2500-2690 MHz Bands
3060-AJ12

338
Service Rules for Advanced Wireless Services in the 2155-2175 MHz Band; WT Docket No. 13-185
3060-AJ19

339
Amendment of the Commission's Rules to Improve Public Safety Communications in the 800 MHz Band, and to Consolidate the 800 MHz and 900 MHz Business and Industrial/Land Transportation Pool Channels
3060-AJ22

340
Amendment of Part 101 to Accommodate 30 MHz Channels in the 6525 to 6875 MHz Band and Provide Conditional Authorization on Channels in the 21.8-22.0 and 23.0-23.2 GHz Band (WT Docket No. 04-114)
3060-AJ28

341
Amendment of Part 90 of the Commission's Rules
3060-AJ37

342
Amendment of Part 101 of the Commission's Rules for Microwave Use and Broadcast Auxiliary Service Flexibility
3060-AJ47

343
Universal Service Reform Mobility Fund (WT Docket No. 10-208)
3060-AJ58

344
Fixed and Mobile Services in the Mobile Satellite Service Bands at 1525-1559 MHz and 1626.5-1660.5 MHz, 1610-1626.5 MHz and 2483.5-2500 MHz, and 2000-2020 MHz and 2180-2200 MHz
3060-AJ59

345
Improving Spectrum Efficiency Through Flexible Channel Spacing and Bandwidth Utilization for Economic Area-Based 800 MHz Specialized Mobile Radio Licensees (WT Docket Nos. 12-64 and 11-110)
3060-AJ71

346
Service Rules for Advanced Wireless Services in the 2000-2020 MHz and 2180-2200 MHz Bands
3060-AJ73

347
Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum Through Incentive Auctions; (GN Docket No. 12-268)
3060-AJ82

348
Service Rules for Advanced Wireless Services of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 Related to the 1915-1920 MHz and 1995-2000 MHz Bands (WT Docket No. 12-357)
3060-AJ86

349
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

350
Amendment of the Commission's Rules Governing Certain Aviation Ground Station Equipment (Squitter) (WT Docket Nos. 10-61 and 09-42)
3060-AJ88

351
Amendment of the Commission's Rules Concerning Commercial Radio Operators (WT Docket No. 10-177)
3060-AJ91

352
Amendment of Part 90 of the Commission's Rules to Permit Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) Technology; WT Docket No. 11-6
3060-AK05

353
Enabling Small Cell Use in the 3.5 GHz Band
3060-AK12

354
Use of Spectrum Bands Above 24 GHz for Mobile Services—Spectrum Frontiers; WT Docket 10-112
3060-AK44

Wireless Telecommunications Bureau—Completed Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

355
Implementation of the Communications Act, Amendment of the Commission's Rules—Broadband PCS Competitive Bidding and the Commercial Mobile Radio Service Spectrum Cap
3060-AG21

Wireline Competition Bureau—Proposed Rule Stage

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

356
Jurisdictional Separations
3060-AJ06

Wireline Competition Bureau—Final Rule Stage

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

357
Comprehensive Review of the Part 32 Uniform System of Accounts (WC Docket No. 14-130)
3060-AK20

358
Protecting and Promoting the Open Internet; (WC Docket No. 14-28)
3060-AK21

Wireline Competition Bureau—Long-Term Actions

Sequence No.
Title

Regulation
Identifier No.

359
Telecommunications Carriers' Use of Customer Proprietary Network Information and Other Customer Information (CC Docket No. 96-115)
3060-AG43

360
2000 Biennial Regulatory Review—Telecommunications Service Quality Reporting Requirements
3060-AH72

361
Numbering Resource Optimization
3060-AH80

362
National Exchange Carrier Association Petition
3060-AI47

363
IP-Enabled Services; WC Docket No. 04-36
3060-AI48

364
Service Quality, Customer Satisfaction, Infrastructure and Operating Data Gathering (WC Docket Nos. 08-190, 07-139, 07-204, 07-273, 07-21)
3060-AJ14

365
Development of Nationwide Broadband Data To Evaluate Reasonable and Timely Deployment of Advanced Services to All Americans
3060-AJ15

366
Local Number Portability Porting Interval and Validation Requirements (WC Docket No. 07-244)
3060-AJ32

367
Implementation of Section 224 of the Act; A National Broadband Plan for Our Future (WC Docket No. 07-245, GN Docket No. 09-51)
3060-AJ64

368
Rural Call Completion; WC Docket No. 13-39
3060-AJ89

369
Rates for Inmate Calling Services; WC Docket No. 12-375
3060-AK08

370
Technology Transitions; GN Docket No. 13-5, WC Docket No. 05-25
3060-AK32

371
Modernizing Common Carrier Rules, WC Docket No. 15-33
3060-AK33

372
Numbering Policies for Modern Communications, WC Docket No. 13-97
3060-AK36

373
Implementation of the Universal Service Portions of the 1996 Telecommunications Act
3060-AK57

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau

Long-Term Actions

277. Implementation of the Telecom Act of 1996; Access to Telecommunications Service, Telecommunications Equipment, and Customer Premises Equipment by Persons With Disabilities (WT Docket No. 96-198)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 255; 47 U.S.C. 251(a)(2)

Abstract:
These proceedings implement the provisions of sections 255 and 251(a)(2) of the Communications Act and related sections of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 regarding the accessibility of telecommunications equipment and services to persons with disabilities.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

R&O
08/14/96
61 FR 42181

NOI
09/26/96
61 FR 50465

NPRM
05/22/98
63 FR 28456

R&O
11/19/99
64 FR 63235

Further NOI
11/19/99
64 FR 63277

Public Notice
01/07/02
67 FR 678

R&O
08/06/07
72 FR 43546

Petition for Waiver
11/01/07
72 FR 61813

Public Notice
11/01/07
72 FR 61882

Final Rule
04/21/08
73 FR 21251

Public Notice
08/01/08
73 FR 45008

Extension of Waiver
05/15/08
73 FR 28057

Extension of Waiver
05/06/09
74 FR 20892

Public Notice
05/07/09
74 FR 21364

Extension of Waiver
07/29/09
74 FR 37624

NPRM
03/14/11
76 FR 13800

NPRM Comment Period Extended
04/12/11
76 FR 20297

FNPRM
12/30/11
76 FR 82240

Comment Period End
03/14/12

R&O
12/30/11
76 FR 82354

Announcement of Effective Date
04/25/12
77 FR 24632

2nd R&O
05/22/13
78 FR 30226

FNPRM
12/20/13
78 FR 77074

FNPRM Comment Period End
02/18/14

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Rosaline Crawford, Attorney, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2075,
Email: rosaline.crawford@fcc.gov
.

RIN:
3060-AG58

278. Rules and Regulations Implementing the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) of 1991 (CG Docket No. 02-278)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 227

Abstract:
On July 3, 2003, the Commission released a Report and Order establishing, along with the FTC, a national do-not-call registry. The Commission's Report and Order also adopted rules on the use of predictive dialers, the transmission of caller ID information by telemarketers, and the sending of unsolicited fax advertisements. On September 21, 2004, the Commission released an Order amending existing safe harbor rules for telemarketers subject to the do-not-call registry to require such telemarketers to access the do-not-call list every 31 days, rather than every 3 months. On April 5, 2006, the Commission adopted a Report and Order and Third Order on Reconsideration amending its facsimile advertising rules to implement the Junk Fax Protection Act of 2005. On October 14, 2008, the Commission released an Order on Reconsideration addressing certain issues raised in petitions for reconsideration and/or clarification of the Report and Order and Third Order on Reconsideration. On January 4, 2008, the Commission released a Declaratory Ruling, clarifying that autodialed and prerecorded message calls to wireless numbers that are provided by the called party to a creditor in connection with an existing debt are permissible as calls made with the “prior express consent” of the called party. Following a December 4, 2007, NPRM, on June 17, 2008, the Commission released a Report and Order amending its rules to require sellers and/or telemarketers to honor registrations with the National Do-Not-Call Registry indefinitely, unless the registration is cancelled by the consumer or the number is removed by the database administrator. Following a January 22, 2010, NPRM, the Commission released a Report and Order (on February 15, 2012), requiring telemarketers to obtain prior express written consent, including by electronic means, before making an autodialed or prerecorded telemarketing call to a wireless number or before making a prerecorded telemarketing call to a residential line; eliminating the “established business relationship” exemption to the consent requirement for prerecorded telemarketing calls to residential lines; requiring telemarketers to provide an automated, interactive “opt-out” mechanism during autodialed or prerecorded telemarketing calls to wireless numbers and during prerecorded telemarketing calls to residential lines; and requiring that the abandoned call rate for telemarketing calls be calculated on a “per-campaign” basis. On November 29, 2012, the Commission released a Declaratory Ruling clarifying that sending a one-time text message confirming a consumer's request that no further text messages be sent does not violate the

Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) or the Commission's rules as long as the confirmation text only confirms receipt of the consumer's opt-out request, and does not contain marketing, solicitations, or an attempt to convince the consumer to reconsider his or her opt-out decision. The ruling applies only when the sender of the text messages has obtained prior express consent, as required by the TCPA and Commission rules, from the consumer to be sent text messages using an automatic telephone dialing system. On May 9, 2013, the Commission released a declaratory ruling clarifying that while a seller does not generally “initiate” calls made through a third-party telemarketer, within the meaning of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), it nonetheless may be held vicariously liable under Federal common law principles of agency for violations of either section 227(b) or section 227(c) that are committed by third-party telemarketers.

On July 10, 2015, the commission released a Declaratory Ruling and Order resolving 21 separate requests for clarification or other action regarding the TCPA. It clarified, among other things, that: Nothing in the Communications Act of the Commission's rules prohibits carriers or other service providers from implementing consumer-initiated call-blocking technologies; equipment meets the TCPA's definition of “autodialer” if it has the “capacity” to store or produce random sequential numbers, and to dial them, even if it is not presently used for that purpose; an “app” provider that plays a minimal role in making a call, such as just proving the app itself, is not the maker of the call for TCPA purposes; consumers who have previously consented to robocalls may revoke that consent at any time and through any reasonable means; the TCPA requires the consent of the party called—the subscriber to a phone number or the customary user of the number—not the intended recipient of the call; and callers who make calls without knowledge or reassignment of a wireless phone number and with a reasonable basis to believe that they have valid consent to make the call to the wireless number should be able to initiate one call after reassignment as an additional opportunity to gain actual or constructive knowledge of the reassignment and cease future calls to the new subscriber. The Commission also exempted certain financial and healthcare-related calls, when free to the consumer, from the TCPA's consumer-consent requirement.

Following a May 6, 2016, NPRM, the Commission released a Report and Order on August 11, 2016, adopting rules governing federal debt collection calls as required by Budget Act amendments to the TCPA. Among other things, the rules make clear that certain debt servicing calls are permitted under the exception; cap the number of permitted calls to wireless numbers at no more than three within a thirty-day period; ensure that consumers have the right to stop such calls at any time; specify who may make covered calls; and determine who may be called.

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

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Kristi Thornton, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2467,
Email: kristi.thornton@fcc.gov
.

RIN:
3060-AI14

279. Rules and Regulations Implementing Section 225 of the Communications Act (Telecommunications Relay Service) (CG Docket No. 03-123)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225

Abstract:
This proceeding established a new docket flowing from the previous telecommunications relay service (TRS) history, CC Docket No. 98-67. This proceeding continues the Commission's inquiry into improving the quality of 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:

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

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2235,
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov
.

RIN:
3060-AI15

280. Consumer Information, Disclosure, and Truth in Billing and Billing Format

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 258

Abstract:
In 1999, the Commission adopted truth-in-billing rules to address concerns that there is consumer confusion relating to billing for telecommunications services. On March 18, 2005, the Commission released an Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) to further facilitate the ability of telephone consumers to make informed choices among competitive service offerings. On August 28, 2009, the Commission released a Notice of Inquiry that asks questions about information available to consumers at all stages of the purchasing process for all communications services, including: (1) Choosing a provider; (2) choosing a service plan; (3) managing use of the service plan; and (4) deciding whether and when to switch an existing provider or plan. On October 14, 2010, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposing rules that would require mobile service providers to provide usage alerts and information that will assist consumers in avoiding unexpected charges on their bills. On July 12, 2011, the Commission released an NPRM proposing rules that would assist consumers in detecting and preventing the placement of unauthorized charges on their telephone bills, an unlawful and fraudulent practice, commonly referred to as “cramming.” On April 27, 2012, the Commission adopted rules to address “cramming” on wireline telephone bills and released an FNPRM seeking comment on additional measures to protect wireline and wireless consumers from unauthorized charges.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

FNPRM
05/25/05
70 FR 30044

R&O
05/25/05
70 FR 29979

NOI
08/28/09

Public Notice
05/20/10
75 FR 28249

Public Notice
06/11/10
75 FR 33303

NPRM
11/26/10
75 FR 72773

NPRM
08/23/11
76 FR 52625

NPRM Comment Period End
11/21/11

Order (Reply Comment Period Extended)
11/30/11
76 FR 74017

Reply Comment Period End
12/05/11

R&O
05/24/12
77 FR 30915

FNPRM
05/24/12
77 FR 30972

FNPRM Comment Period End
07/09/12

Order (Comment Period Extended)
07/17/12
77 FR 41955

Comment Period End
07/20/12

Announcement of Effective Dates
10/26/12
77 FR 65230

Correction of Final Rule
11/30/12
77 FR 71353

Correction of Final Rule
11/30/12
77 FR 71354

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
717 338-2797,
Fax:
717 338-2574,
Email: richard.smith@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AI61

281. Closed-Captioning of Video Programming; CG Docket Nos. 05-231 and 06-181 (Section 610 Review)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 613

Abstract:
The Commission's closed-captioning rules are designed to make video programming more accessible to deaf and hard-of-hearing Americans. This proceeding resolves some issues regarding the Commission's closed-captioning rules that were raised for comment in 2005, and also seeks comment on how a certain exemption from the closed-captioning rules should be applied to digital multicast broadcast channels.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
02/03/97
62 FR 4959

R&O
09/16/97
62 FR 48487

Order on Reconsideration
10/20/98
63 FR 55959

NPRM
09/26/05
70 FR 56150

Order and Declaratory Ruling
01/13/09
74 FR 1594

NPRM
01/13/09
74 FR 1654

Final Rule Correction
09/11/09
74 FR 46703

Final Rule (Announcement of Effective Date)
02/19/10
75 FR 7370

Order
02/19/10
75 FR 7368

Order Suspending Effective Date
02/19/10
75 FR 7369

Waiver Order
10/04/10
75 FR 61101

Public Notice
11/17/10
75 FR 70168

Interim Final Rule (Order)
11/01/11
76 FR 67376

Final Rule (MO&O)
11/01/11
76 FR 67377

NPRM
11/01/11
76 FR 67397

NPRM Comment Period End
12/16/11

Public Notice
05/04/12
77 FR 26550

Public Notice
12/15/12
77 FR 72348

Final Rule Effective
03/16/15

FNPRM
03/27/14
79 FR 17094

R&O
03/31/14
79 FR 17911

FNPRM Comment Period End
07/25/14

Final Action (Announcement of Effective Date)
12/29/14
79 FR 77916

2nd FNPRM
12/31/14
79 FR 78768

Comment Period End
01/30/15

2nd R&O
08/23/16
81 FR 57473

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2235,
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AI72

282. Accessibility of Programming Providing Emergency Information; MB Docket No. 12-107

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 613

Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission adopted rules detailing how video programming distributors must make emergency information accessible to persons with hearing and visual disabilities.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

FNPRM
01/21/98
63 FR 3070

NPRM
12/01/99
64 FR 67236

NPRM Correction
12/22/99
64 FR 71712

Second R&O
05/09/00
65 FR 26757

R&O
09/11/00
65 FR 54805

Final Rule; Correction
09/20/00
65 FR 5680

NPRM
11/28/12
77 FR 70970

NPRM Comment Period Extended
12/20/12
77 FR 75404

NPRM Comment Period Extension End
01/07/13

R&O
05/24/13
78 FR 31770

FNPRM
05/24/13
78 FR 31800

FNPRM
12/20/13
78 FR 77074

FNPRM Comment Period End
02/18/14

NPRM
06/18/13
78 FR 36478

NPRM Comment Period End
08/07/13

R&O
12/20/13
78 FR 77210

Petition for Reconsideration
01/31/14
79 FR 5364

Comment Period End
02/25/14

Correcting Amendments
02/10/14
79 FR 7590

Announcement of Effective Date
04/16/14
79 FR 21399

Final Action (Announcement of Effective Date)
01/26/15
80 FR 3913

Final Action Effective
01/26/15

2nd R&O
07/10/15
80 FR 39698

2nd FNPRM
07/10/15
80 FR 39722

2nd FNPRM Comment Period End
09/08/15

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2235,
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AI75

283. Empowering Consumers To Avoid Bill Shock (Docket No. 10-207)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 332

Abstract:
On October 14, 2010, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking which proposes a rule that would require mobile service providers to provide usage alerts and information to help consumers avoid unexpected charges on their bills.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

Public Notice
05/20/10
75 FR 28249

NPRM
11/26/10
75 FR 72773

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
717 338-2797,
Fax:
717 338-2574,
Email: richard.smith@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ51

284. Contributions to the Telecommunications Relay Services Fund (CG Docket No. 11-47)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 616

Abstract:
The Commission prescribes by regulation the obligations of each provider of interconnected and non-interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service to participate in and contribute to the Interstate Telecommunications Relay Services Fund in a manner that is consistent with and comparable to such fund.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
04/04/11
76 FR 18490

NPRM Comment Period End
05/04/11

Final Rule
10/25/11
76 FR 65965

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Rosaline Crawford, Attorney, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2075,
Email: rosaline.crawford@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ63

285. Empowering Consumers To Prevent and Detect Billing for Unauthorized Charges (“Cramming”)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 332

Abstract:
On July 12, 2011, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing rules that would help consumers detect and prevent the placement of unauthorized charges on telephone bills, an unlawful and fraudulent practice commonly referred to as “cramming.” On April 27, 2012, the Commission adopted rules to address “cramming” on wireline telephone bills and released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on additional measures to protect wireline and wireless consumers from unauthorized charges.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
08/23/11
76 FR 52625

NPRM Comment Period End
11/21/11

Order (Extends Reply Comment Period)
11/30/11
76 FR 74017

NPRM Comment Period End
12/05/11

FNPRM
05/24/12
77 FR 30972

R&O
05/24/12
77 FR 30915

FNPRM Comment Period End
07/09/12

Order (Extends Reply Comment Period)
07/17/12
77 FR 41955

FNPRM Comment Period End
07/20/12

Announcement of Effective Dates
10/26/12
77 FR 65230

Correction of Final Rule
11/30/12
77 FR 71354

Correction of Final Rule
11/30/12
77 FR 71353

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
717 338-2797,
Fax:
717 338-2574,
Email: richard.smith@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ72

286. Implementation of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012/Establishment of a Public Safety Answering Point Do-Not-Call Registry

Legal Authority:
Pub. L. 112-96, sec. 6507

Abstract:
The Commission issued, on May 22, 2012, an NPRM to initiate a proceeding to create a Do-Not-Call registry for public safety answer points (PSAPs), as required by section 6507 of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012. The statute requires the Commission to establish a registry that allows PSAPs to register their telephone numbers on a do-not-call list; prohibit the use of automatic dialing equipment to contact registered numbers; and implement a range of monetary penalties for disclosure of registered numbers and for use of automatic dialing equipment to contact such numbers. On October 17, 2012, the Commission adopted final rules implementing the statutory requirements described above.

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

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
717 338-2797,
Fax:
717 338-2574,
Email: richard.smith@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ84

287. 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)

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

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Rosaline Crawford, Attorney, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2075,
Email: rosaline.crawford@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK00

288. Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Captioned Telephone Service; Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services; CG Docket No. 13-24

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225

Abstract:
The FCC initiated this proceeding in its effort to ensure that IP CTS is available for eligible users only. In doing so, the FCC released an Interim Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to address certain practices related to the provision and marketing of Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS). 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, this new Order establishes several requirements on a temporary basis from March 7, 2013, to September 3, 2013.

Timetable:

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
09/30/13
78FR 54201

FNPRM Comment Period End
11/18/13

Petition for Reconsideration Request for Comment
12/16/13
78 FR 76097

Petiton for Reconsideration Comment Period End
01/10/14

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

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2235,
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK01

289. • Transition From TTY to Real-Time Text Technology (GN Docket No. 15-178)

Legal Authority:
Pub. L. 111-260, sec. 106; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 225; 225, 255, 301, 303(r), 316, 403, 615c, 616, 617; 47 U.S.C. 255; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 615(c); 47 U.S.C. 616; 47 U.S.C. 617

Abstract:
On December 15, 2016, the Commission amended its rules to facilitate a transition from text telephone (TTY) technology to real-time text (RTT) as a reliable and interoperable universal text solution over wireless Internet protocol (IP) enabled networks for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or have a speech disability. RTT, which allows text characters to be sent as they are being created, can be sent simultaneously with voice, and permits the use of off-the-shelf end user devices to make text telephone calls. The Commission also sought comment on the application of RTT to telecommunications relay services (TRS) and sought further comment on a sunset date for TTY support, as well as other matters pertaining to the deployment of RTT.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
05/25/16
81 FR 33170

NPRM Comment Period End
07/25/16

FNPRM
01/23/17
82 FR 7766

R&O
01/23/17
82 FR 7699

Public Notice
03/16/17
82 FR 13972

FNPRM Comment Period End
03/24/17

Public Notice Comment Period End
04/10/17

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Michael Scott, Attorney Advisor, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1264,
Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK58

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Office of Engineering and Technology

Long-Term Actions

290. New Advanced Wireless Services (ET Docket No. 00-258)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303(c); 47 U.S.C. 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(r)

Abstract:
This proceeding explores the possible uses of frequency bands below 3 GHz to support the introduction of new advanced wireless services, including third generations as well as future generations of wireless systems. Advanced wireless systems could provide for a wide range of voice data and broadband services over a variety of mobile and fixed networks. The Third Notice of Proposed Rulemaking discusses the frequency bands that are still under consideration in this proceeding and invites additional comments on their disposition. Specifically, it addresses the Unlicensed Personal Communications Service (UPCS) band at 1910-1930 MHz, the Multipoint Distribution Service (MDS) spectrum at 2155-2160/62 MHz bands, the Emerging Technology spectrum, at 2160-2165 MHz, and the bands reallocated from MSS 91990-2000 MHz, 2020-2025 MHz, and 2165-2180 MHz. We seek comment on these bands with respect to using them for paired or unpaired Advance Wireless Service (AWS) operations or as relocation spectrum for existing services. The seventh Report and Order facilitates the introduction of Advanced Wireless Service (AWS) in the band 1710-1755 MHz—an integral part of a 90 MHz spectrum allocation recently reallocated to allow for such new and innovative wireless services. We largely adopt the proposals set forth in our recent AWS Fourth NPRM in this proceeding that are designed to clear the 1710-1755 MHz band of incumbent Federal Government operations that would otherwise impede the development of new nationwide AWS services. These actions are consistent with previous actions in this proceeding and with the United States Department of Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) 2002 Viability Assessment, which addressed relocation and reaccommodation options for Federal Government operations in the band. The eighth Report and Order reallocated the 2155-2160 MHz band for fixed and mobile services and designates the 2155-2175 MHz band for Advanced Wireless Service (AWS) use. This proceeding continues the Commission's ongoing efforts to promote spectrum utilization and efficiency with regard to the provision of new services, including Advanced Wireless Services. The Order requires Broadband Radio Service (BRS) licensees in the 2150-2160/62 MHz band to provide information on the construction status and operational parameters of each incumbent BRS system that would be the subject of relocation. The Notice of Proposed Rule Making requested comments on the specific relocation procedures applicable to Broadband Radio Service (BRS) operations in the 2150-2160/62 MHz band, which the Commission recently decided will be relocated to the newly restructured 2495-2690 MHz band. The Commission also requested comments on the specific relocation procedures applicable to Fixed Microwave Service (FS) operations in the 2160-2175 MHz band. The Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) and the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) set forth the specific data that Broadband Radio Service (BRS) licensees in the 2150-2160/62 MHz band must file along with the deadline date and procedures for filing this data on the Commission's Universal Licensing System (ULS). The data will assist in determining future AWS licensees' relocation obligations. The ninth Report and Order established procedures for the relocation of Broadband Radio Service (BRS)

operations from the 2150-2160/62 MHz band, as well as for the relocation of Fixed Microwave Service (FS) operations from the 2160-2175 MHz band, and modified existing relocation procedures for the 2110-2150 MHz and 2175-2180 MHz bands. It also established cost-sharing rules to identify the reimbursement obligations for Advanced Wireless Service (AWS) and Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) entrants benefiting from the relocation of incumbent FS operations in the 2110-2150 MHz and 2160-2200 MHz bands and AWS entrants benefiting from the relocation of BRS incumbents in the 2150-2160/62 MHz band. The Commission continues its ongoing efforts to promote spectrum utilization and efficiency with regard to the provision of new services, including AWS. The Order dismisses a petition for reconsideration filed by the Wireless Communications Association International, Inc. (WCA) as moot. Two petitions for reconsideration were filed in response to the ninth Report and Order. The Report and Orders and Declaratory Ruling concludes the Commission's longstanding efforts to relocate the Broadcast Auxiliary Service (BAS) from the 1990-2110 MHz band to the 2025-2110 MHz band, freeing up 35 megahertz of spectrum in order to foster the development of new and innovative services. This decision addresses the outstanding matter of Sprint Nextel Corporation's (Sprint Nextel) inability to agree with Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) operators in the band on the sharing of the costs to relocate the BAS incumbents. To resolve this controversy, the Commission applied its time-honored relocation principles for emerging technologies previously adopted for the BAS band to the instant relocation process, where delays and unanticipated developments have left ambiguities and misconceptions among the relocating parties. In the process, the Commission balances the responsibilities for and benefits of relocating incumbent BAS operations among all the new entrants in the different services that will operate in the band. The Commission proposed to modify its cost-sharing requirements for the 2 GHz BAS band because the circumstances surrounding the BAS transition are very different than what was expected when the cost-sharing requirements were adopted. The Commission believed that the best course of action was to propose new requirements that would address the ambiguity of applying the literal language of the current requirements to the changed circumstances, as well as balance the responsibilities for and benefits of relocating incumbent BAS operations among all new entrants in the band based on the Commission's relocation policies set forth in the Emerging Technologies proceeding. The Commission proposed to eliminate, as of January 1, 2009, the requirement that Broadcast Auxiliary Service (BAS) licensees in the 30 largest markets and fixed BAS links in all markets be transitioned before the Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) operators can begin offering service. The Commission also sought comments on how to mitigate interference between new MSS entrants and incumbent BAS licensees who had not completed relocation before the MSS entrants begin offering service. In addition, the Commission sought comments on allowing MSS operators to begin providing service in those markets where BAS incumbents have been transitioned. In the Further Notice of Proposed Rule Making the Commission proposed to modify its cost-sharing requirements for the 2 GHz BAS band because the circumstances surrounding the BAS transition are very different than what was expected when the cost- sharing requirements were adopted. The Commission believes that the best course of action is to propose new requirements that will address the ambiguity of applying the literal language of the current requirements to the changed circumstances, as well as balance the responsibilities for and benefits of relocating incumbent BAS operations among all new entrants in the band based on the Commission's relocation policies set forth in the Emerging Technologies proceeding.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
01/23/01
66 FR 7438

NPRM Comment Period End
03/09/01

Final Report
04/11/01
66 FR 18740

FNPRM
09/13/01
66 FR 47618

MO&O
09/13/01
66 FR 47591

First R&O
10/25/01
66 FR 53973

Petition for Reconsideration
11/02/01
66 FR 55666

Second R&O
01/24/03
68 FR 3455

Third NPRM
03/13/03
68 FR 12015

Seventh R&O
12/29/04
69 FR 7793

Petition for Reconsideration
04/13/05
70 FR 19469

Eighth R&O
10/26/05
70 FR 61742

Order
10/26/05
70 FR 61742

NPRM
10/26/05
70 FR 61752

Public Notice
12/14/05
70 FR 74011

Ninth R&O and Order
05/24/06
71 FR 29818

Petition for Reconsideration
07/19/06
71 FR 41022

FNPRM
03/31/08
73 FR 16822

R&O and NPRM
06/23/09
74 FR 29607

FNPRM
06/23/09
74 FR 29607

5th R&O, 11th R&O, 6th R&O, and Declaratory Ruling
11/02/10
75 FR 67227

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Rodney Small, Economist, Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2452,
Fax:
202 418-1944,
Email: rodney.small@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AH65

291. Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (ET Docket No. 10-97)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 302 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 309(j); 47 U.S.C. 336

Abstract:
In the Report and Order the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) resolved several issues regarding compliance with its regulations for conducting environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) as they relate to the guidelines for human exposure to RF electromagnetic fields. More specifically, the Commission clarifies evaluation procedures and references to determine compliance with its limits, including specific absorption rate (SAR) as a primary metric for compliance, consideration of the pinna (outer ear) as an extremity, and measurement of medical implant exposure. The Commission also elaborates on mitigation procedures to ensure compliance with its limits, including labeling and other requirements for occupational exposure classification, clarification of compliance responsibility at multiple transmitter sites, and labeling of fixed consumer transmitters.

In the Order, pursuant to the authority delegated by the Commission, FCC amends sections 15.31(a)(2) and 15.38(b)(2) of the Commission's rules to reference the 2013 version of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) C63.17 standard, Methods of Measurement of the Electromagnetic and Operational Compatibility of Unlicensed Personal Communications Service (UPCS) Devices, ANSI C63.17-2013. This version of the standard supersedes ANSI C63.17-2006, which contains measurement procedures for verifying the compliance of UPCS

devices (including wideband voice and data devices) that operate in the 1920-1930 MHz frequency band with applicable requirements regarding radio frequency (RF) emission levels and spectrum access procedures in part 15 subpart D of the Commission's rules.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
09/08/03
68 FR 52879

NPRM Comment Period End
12/08/03

R&O
06/04/13
78 FR 33634

Petition for Recon
08/27/13
78 FR 52893

Order
01/21/15
80 FR 2836

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Ira Keltz, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0616,
Fax:
202 418-1944,
Email: ikeltz@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AI17

292. Unlicensed Operation in the TV Broadcast Bands (ET Docket No. 04-186)

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

3rd MO&O and Order
05/17/12
77 FR 28236

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7506,
Fax:
202 418-1944,
Email: hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AI52

293. Fixed and Mobile Services in the Mobile Satellite Service (ET Docket No. 10-142)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(c) and 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(r) and 303(y); 47 U.S.C. 310

Abstract:
The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposed to take a number of actions to further the provision of terrestrial broadband services in the MSS bands. In the 2 GHz MSS band, the Commission proposed to add co-primary Fixed and Mobile allocations to the existing Mobile-Satellite allocation. This would lay the groundwork for providing additional flexibility in use of the 2 GHz spectrum in the future. The Commission also proposed to apply the terrestrial secondary market spectrum leasing rules and procedures to transactions involving terrestrial use of the MSS spectrum in the 2 GHz, Big LEO, and L-bands in order to create greater certainty and regulatory parity with bands licensed for terrestrial broadband service. The Commission also asked, in a notice of inquiry, about approaches for creating opportunities for full use of the 2 GHz band for standalone terrestrial uses. The Commission requested comment on ways to promote innovation and investment throughout the MSS bands while also ensuring market-wide mobile satellite capability to serve important needs like disaster recovery and rural access.

In the Report and Order, the Commission amended its rules to make additional spectrum available for new investment in mobile broadband networks while also ensuring that the United States maintains robust mobile satellite service capabilities. First, the Commission adds co-primary Fixed and Mobile allocations to the Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) 2 GHz band, consistent with the International Table of Allocations, allowing more flexible use of the band, including for terrestrial broadband services, in the future. Second, to create greater predictability and regulatory parity with the bands licensed for terrestrial mobile broadband service, the Commission extends its existing secondary market spectrum manager spectrum leasing policies, procedures, and rules that currently apply to wireless terrestrial services to terrestrial services provided using the Ancillary Terrestrial Component (ATC) of an MSS system. Petitions for Reconsideration have been filed in the Commission's rulemaking proceeding concerning Fixed and Mobile Services in the Mobile Satellite Service Bands at 1525-1559 MHz and 1626.5-1660.5 MHz, 1610-1626.5 MHz

and 2483.5-2500 MHz, and 2000-2020 MHz and 2180-2200 MHz, and published pursuant to 47 CFR 1.429(e). See 1.4(b)(1) of the Commission's rules.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
08/16/10
75 FR 49871

NPRM Comment Period End
09/15/10

Reply Comment Period End
09/30/10

R&O
05/31/11
76 FR 31252

Petitions for Reconsideration
08/10/11
76 FR 49364

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Nicholas Oros, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0636,
Email: nicholas.oros@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ46

294. Operation of Radar Systems in the 76-77 GHZ Band (ET Docket No. 11-90)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 301 to 302; 47 U.S.C. 303(f)

Abstract:
The Commission proposed to amend its rules to enable enhanced vehicular radar technologies in the 76-77 GHz band to improve collision avoidance and driver safety. Vehicular radars can determine the exact distance and relative speed of objects in front of, beside, or behind a car to improve the driver's ability to perceive objects under bad visibility conditions or objects that are in blind spots. These modifications to the rules will provide more efficient use of spectrum, and enable the automotive and fixed radar application industries to develop enhanced safety measures for drivers and the general public. The Commission takes this action in response to petitions for rulemaking filed by Toyota Motor Corporation (“TMC”) and Era Systems Corporation (“Era”). The Report and Order amends the Commission's rules to provide a more efficient use of the 76-77 GHz band, and to enable the automotive and aviation industries to develop enhanced safety measures for drivers and the general public. Specifically, the Commission eliminated the in-motion and not-in-motion distinction for vehicular radars, and instead adopted new uniform emission limits for forward, side, and rear-looking vehicular radars. This will facilitate enhanced vehicular radar technologies to improve collision avoidance and driver safety. The Commission also amended its rules to allow the operation of fixed radars at airport locations in the 76-77 GHz band for purposes of detecting foreign object debris on runways and monitoring aircraft and service vehicles on taxiways and other airport vehicle service areas that have no public vehicle access. The Commission took this action in response to petitions for rulemaking filed by Toyota Motor Corporation (“TMC”) and Era Systems Corporation (“Era”). Petitions for Reconsideration were filed by Navtech Radar, Ltd. and Honeywell International Inc.

Navtech Radar, Ltd. and Honeywell International, Inc., filed petitions for reconsideration in response to the
Vehicular Radar R&O
that modified the Commission's part 15 rules to permit vehicular radar technologies and airport-based fixed radar applications in the 76-77 GHz band.

The Commission denied Honeywell's petition. Section 1.429(b) of the Commission's rules provides three ways in which a petition for reconsideration can be granted, and none of these have been met. Honeywell has not shown that its petition relies on facts regarding fixed radar use which had not previously been presented to the Commission, nor does it show that its petition relies on facts that relate to events that changed since Honeywell had the last opportunity to present its facts regarding fixed radar use.

The Commission stated in the Vehicular Radar R&O, “that no parties have come forward to support fixed radar applications beyond airport locations in this band,” and it decided not to adopt provisions for unlicensed fixed radar use other than those for FOD detection applications at airport locations. Because Navtech first participated in the proceeding when it filed its petition well after the decision was published, its petition fails to meet the timeliness standard of section 1.429(d).

In connection with the Commission's decision to deny the petitions for reconsideration discussed above, the Commission terminates ET Docket Nos. 10-28 and 11-90 (pertaining to vehicular radar).

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
06/16/11
76 FR 35176

R&O
08/13/12
77 FR 48097

Petition for Reconconsideration
11/11/12
77 FR 68722

Reconsideration Order
03/06/15
80 FR 12120

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Aamer Zain, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2437,
Email: aamer.zain@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ68

295. Federal Earth Stations-Non Federal Fixed Satellite Service Space Stations; Spectrum for Non-Federal Space Launch Operations; ET Docket No. 13-115

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 336

Abstract:
The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposes to make spectrum allocation proposals for three different space-related purposes. The Commission makes two alternative proposals to modify the Allocation Table to provide interference protection for Fixed-Satellite Service (FSS) and Mobile-Satellite Service (MSS) earth stations operated by Federal agencies under authorizations granted by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) in certain frequency bands. The Commission also proposes to amend a footnote to the Allocation Table to permit a Federal MSS system to operate in the 399.9 to 400.05 MHz band; it also makes alternative proposals to modify the Allocation Table to provide access to spectrum on an interference protected basis to Commission licensees for use during the launch of launch vehicles (
i.e.
rockets). The Commission also seeks comment broadly on the future spectrum needs of the commercial space sector. The Commission expects that, if adopted, these proposals would advance the commercial space industry and the important role it will play in our Nation's economy and technological innovation now and in the future.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
07/01/13
78 FR 39200

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Nicholas Oros, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0636,
Email: nicholas.oros@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK09

296. Authorization of Radiofrequency Equipment; ET Docket No. 13-44

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307(e); 47 U.S.C. 332

Abstract:
The Commission is responsible for an equipment authorization program for radiofrequency (RF) devices under part 2 of its rules. This program is one of the primary means that the Commission uses to ensure that the multitude of RF devices used in the United States operate effectively without causing harmful interference and otherwise comply with the Commission rules. All RF devices subject to equipment authorization must comply with the Commission's technical requirement before they can be imported or marketed. The Commission or a Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB) must approve some of these devices before they can be imported or marketed, while others do not require such approval. The Commission last comprehensively reviewed its equipment authorization program more than 10 years ago. The rapid innovation in equipment design since that time has led to ever-accelerating growth in the number of parties applying for equipment approval. The Commission therefore believes that the time is now right for us to comprehensively review our equipment authorization processes to ensure that they continue to enable this growth and innovation in the wireless equipment market. In May of 2012, the Commission began this reform process by issuing an Order to increase the supply of available grantee codes. With this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), the Commission continues its work to review and reform the equipment authorization processes and rules. This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposes certain changes to the Commission's part 2 equipment authorization processes to ensure that they continue to operate efficiently and effectively. In particular, it addresses the role of TCBs in certifying RF equipment and post-market surveillance, as well as the Commission's role in assessing TCB performance. The NPRM also addressed the role of test laboratories in the RF equipment approval process, including accreditation of test labs and the Commission's recognition of laboratory accreditation bodies, and measurement procedures used to determine RF equipment compliance. Finally, it proposes certain modifications to the rules regarding TCBs that approve terminal equipment under part 68 of the rules that are consistent with our proposed modifications to the rules for TCBs that approve RF equipment. Specifically, the Commission proposes to recognize the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) as the organization that designates TCBs in the United States and to modify the rules to reference the current International Organization for Standardization and International Electrotechnical Commission (ISO/IEC) guides used to accredit TCBs.

This Report and Order updates the Commission's radiofrequency (RF) equipment authorization program to build on the success realized by its use of Commission-recognized Telecommunications Certification Bodies (TCBs). The rules the Commission is adopting will facilitate the continued rapid introduction of new and innovative products to the market while ensuring that these products do not cause harmful interference to each other or to other communications devices and services.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
05/03/13
78 FR 25916

R&O
06/12/15
80 FR 33425

Memorandum, Opinion & Order
06/29/16
81 FR 42264

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7506,
Fax:
202 418-1944,
Email: hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK10

297. Operation of Radar Systems in the 76-77 GHZ Band (ET Docket No. 15-26)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 1; 47 U.S.C. 4(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 337

Abstract:
The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposes to authorize radar applications in the 76-81 GHz band. The Commission seeks to develop a flexible and streamlined regulatory framework that will encourage efficient, innovative uses of the spectrum and to allow various services to operate on an interference-protected basis. In doing so, it further seeks to adopt service rules that will allow for the deployment of the various radar applications in this band, both within and outside the U.S. The Commission takes this action in response to a petition for rulemaking filed by Robert Bosch, LLC (Bosch) and two petitions for reconsideration of the 2012 Vehicular Radar R&O.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
03/06/15
80 FR 12120

NPRM Comment Period End
04/06/15

NPRM Reply Comment Period End
04/20/15

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Aamer Zain, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2437,
Email: aamer.zain@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK29

298. Spectrum Access for Wireless Microphone Operations (GN Docket Nos. 14-166 and 12-268)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307(e); 47 U.S.C. 332

Abstract:
The Notice of Proposed Rule Making initiated a proceeding to address how to accommodate the long-term needs of wireless microphone users. Wireless microphones play an important role in enabling broadcasters and other video programming networks to serve consumers, including as they cover breaking news and broadcast live sports events. They enhance event productions in a variety of settings including theaters and music venues, film studios, conventions, corporate events, houses of worship, and internet webcasts. They also help create high quality content that consumers demand and value. Recent actions by the Commission, and in particular the repurposing of broadcast television band spectrum for wireless services set forth in the Incentive Auction R&O, will significantly alter the regulatory environment in which wireless microphones operate, which necessitates our addressing how to accommodate wireless microphone users in the future.

In the Report and Order, the Commission takes several steps to accommodate the long-term needs of wireless microphone users. Wireless microphones play an important role in enabling broadcasters and other video programming networks to serve

consumers, including as they cover breaking news and live sports events. They enhance event productions in a variety of settings including theaters and music venues, film studios, conventions, corporate events, houses of worship, and internet webcasts. They also help create high quality content that consumers demand and value. In particular, the Commission provide additional opportunities for wireless microphone operations in the TV bands following the upcoming incentive auction, and the Commission provide new opportunities for wireless microphone operations to access spectrum in other frequency bands where they can share use of the bands without harming existing users.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
11/21/14
79 FR 69387

NPRM Comment Period End
01/05/15

NPRM Reply Comment Period End
01/26/15

R&O
11/17/15
80 FR 71702

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Paul Murray, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0688,
Fax:
202 418-7447,
Email:

paul.murray@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK30

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Office of Engineering and Technology

Completed Actions

299. Radio Experimentation and Market Trials Under Part 5 of the Commission's Rules and Streamlining Other Related Rules (ET Docket No. 10-236)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303

Abstract:
The Commission initiated this proceeding to promote innovation and efficiency in spectrum use in the Experimental Radio Service (ERS). For many years, the ERS has provided fertile ground for testing innovative ideas that have led to new services and new devices for all sectors of the economy. The Commission proposed to leverage the power of experimental radio licensing to accelerate the rate at which these ideas transform from prototypes to consumer devices and services. Its goal is to inspire researchers to dream, discover, and deliver the innovations that push the boundaries of the broadband ecosystem. The resulting advancements in devices and services available to the American public and greater spectrum efficiency over the long term will promote economic growth, global competitiveness, and a better way of life for all Americans.

In the Report and Order (R&O), the Commission revised and streamlined its rules to modernize the Experimental Radio Service (ERS). The rules adopted in the R&O updated the ERS to a more flexible framework to keep pace with the speed of modern technological change while continuing to provide an environment where creativity can thrive. To accomplish this transition, the Commission created three new types of ERS licenses—the program license, the medical testing license, and the compliance testing license—to benefit the development of new technologies, expedite their introduction to the marketplace, and unleash the full power of innovators to keep the United States at the forefront of the communications industry. The Commission's actions also modified the market trial rules to eliminate confusion and more clearly articulate its policies with respect to marketing products prior to equipment certification. The Commission believes that these actions will remove regulatory barriers to experimentation, thereby permitting institutions to move from concept to experimentation to finished product more rapidly and to more quickly implement creative problem-solving methodologies.

The Memorandum Opinion and Order responds to three petitions for reconsideration seeking to modify certain rules adopted in the Report and Order in this proceeding. In response, the Commission modifies its rules, consistent with past practice, to permit conventional Experimental Radio Service (ERS) licensees and compliance testing licensees to use bands exclusively allocated to the passive services in some circumstances; clarifies that some cost recovery is permitted for the testing and operation of experimental medical devices that take place under its market trial rules; and adds a definition of emergency notification providers to its rules to clarify that all participants in the Emergency Alert System (EAS) are such providers. However, the Commission declines to expand the eligibility for medical testing licenses.

In the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking the Commission proposes to modify the rules for program experimental licenses to permit experimentation for radio frequency (RF)-based medical devices, if the device being tested is designed to comply with all applicable service rules in part 18, Industrial, Scientific, and Medical Equipment; part 95, Personal Radio Services subpart H Wireless Medical Telemetry Service; or part 95, subpart I Medical Device Radiocommunication Service. This proposal is designed to establish parity between all qualified medical device manufacturers for conducting basic research and clinical trials with RF-based medical devices as to permissible frequencies of operation.

This Memorandum Opinion and Order responds to three petitions for reconsideration seeking to modify certain rules adopted in the Report and Order in this proceeding. In response, the Commission modifies its rules, consistent with past practice, to permit conventional Experimental Radio Service (ERS) licensees and compliance testing licensees to use bands exclusively allocated to the passive services in some circumstances; clarifies that some cost recovery is permitted for the testing and operation of experimental medical devices that take place under its market trial rules; and adds a definition of emergency notification providers: to its rules to clarify that all participants in the Emergency Alert System (EAS) are such providers. However, the Commission declines to expand the eligibility for medical testing licenses.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
02/08/11
76 FR 6928

NPRM Comment Period End
03/10/11

R&O
04/29/13
78 FR 25138

FNPRM
08/31/15
80 FR 52437

MO&O
08/31/15
80 FR 52408

2nd R&O
07/25/16
81 FR 48362

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Nnake Nweke, Chief, Experimental Licensing Branch, Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0785,
Email:

nnake.nweke@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ62

300. WRC-07 Implementation (ET Docket No. 12-338)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303

Abstract:
In the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), the Commission proposed to amend parts 1, 2, 74, 78, 87, 90, and 97 of its rules to implement allocation decisions from the World Radiocommunication Conference (Geneva, 2007) (WRC 07) concerning portions of the radio frequency (RF) spectrum between 108 MHz and 20.2 GHz and to make certain updates to its rules in this frequency range. The NPRM follows the Commission's July 2010 WRC-07 Table Clean-up Order, 75 FR 62924, October 13, 2010, which made certain nonsubstantive, editorial revisions to the Table of Frequency Allocations (Allocation Table) and to other related rules. The Commission also addressed the recommendations for implementation of the WRC-07 Final Acts that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) submitted to the Commission in August 2009. As part of its comprehensive review of the Allocation Table, the Commission also proposed to make allocation changes that are not related to the WRC-07 Final Acts and update certain service rules, and requested comment on other allocation issues that concern portions of the RF spectrum between 137.5 kHz and 54.25 GHz.

In the Report and Order the Commission implemented allocation changes from the World Radiocommunication Conference (Geneva, 2007) (WRC-07) and updated related service rules. The Commission took this action in order to conform its rules, to the extent practical, to the decisions that the international community made at WRC-07. This action will promote the advancement of new and expanded services and provide significant benefits to the American people. In addition, the Commission revised the International Table of Frequency Allocations within its rules to generally reflect the allocation changes made at the World Radiocommunication Conference (Geneva, 2012) (WRC-12).

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
12/27/12
77 FR 76250

NPRM Comment Period End
02/25/13

Report and Order
04/23/15
80 FR 38811

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Tom Mooring, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering and Technology, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2450,
Fax:
202 418-1944,
Email:

tom.mooring@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ93

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

International Bureau

Final Rule Stage

301. Comprehensive Review of Licensing and Operating Rules for Satellite Services (IB Docket No. 12-267)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 161; 47 U.S.C. 303(c); 47 U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(r)

Abstract:
The Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to initiate a comprehensive review of part 25 of the Commission's rules, which governs the licensing and operation of space stations and earth stations. The Commission proposed amendments to modernize the rules to better reflect evolving technology, to eliminate unnecessary technical and information filing requirements, and to reorganize and simplify existing requirements. In the ensuing Report and Order, the Commission adopted most of its proposed changes and revised over 150 rule provisions. Several proposals raised by commenters in the proceeding, however, were not within the scope of the original NPRM. To address these and other issues, the Commission released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM). The FNPRM proposed additional rule changes to facilitate international coordination of proposed satellite networks, to revise system implementation milestones and the associated bond, and to expand the applicability of routine licensing standards. Following the FNPRM, the Commission issued a Second Report and Order adopting most of its proposals in the FNPNRM. Among other changes, the Commission established a two-step licensing procedure for most geostationary satellite applicants to facilitate international coordination, simplified the satellite development milestones, adopted an escalating bond requirement to discourage speculation, and refined the two-degree orbital spacing policy for most geostationary satellites to protect existing services. In addition, in May 2016, the International Bureau published a Public Notice inviting comment on the appropriate implementation schedule for a Carrier Identification requirement adopted in the first Report and Order in this proceeding.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
11/08/12
77 FR 67172

NPRM Comment Period End
02/13/13

Report and Order
02/12/14
79 FR 8308

FNPRM
10/31/14
79 FR 65106

FNPRM Comment Period End
03/02/15

Public Notice
05/31/16
81 FR 34301

2nd R&O
08/18/16
81 FR 55316

Order on Recon
12/00/17

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0803,
Email:

clay.decell@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ98

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

International Bureau

Long-Term Actions

302. International Settlements Policy Reform (IB Docket No. 11-80)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 201 to 205; 47 U.S.C. 208; 47 U.S.C. 211; 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract:
The FCC is reviewing the International Settlements Policy (ISP). It governs how U.S. carriers negotiate with foreign carriers for the exchange of international traffic, and is the structure by which the Commission has sought to respond to concerns that foreign carriers with market power are able to take advantage of the presence of multiple U.S. carriers serving a particular market. In 2011, the FCC released an NPRM which proposed to further deregulate the international telephony market and enable U.S. consumers to enjoy competitive prices when they make calls to international destinations. First, it proposed to remove the ISP from all international routes, except Cuba. Second, the FCC sought comment on a proposal to enable the Commission to better protect U.S. consumers from the effects of anticompetitive conduct by foreign carriers in instances necessitating Commission intervention. In 2012, the FCC adopted a Report and Order which eliminated the ISP on all routes, but maintained the nondiscrimination requirement of the ISP on the U.S.-Cuba route and codified it at 47 CFR 63.22(f). In the Report and Order the FCC also adopted measures to protect U.S. consumers from

anticompetitive conduct by foreign carriers. In 2016, the FCC released an FNPRM proposing to remove the nondiscrimination requirement on the U.S.-Cuba route.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
05/13/11
76 FR 42625

NPRM Comment Period End
09/02/11

Report and Order
02/15/13
78 FR 11109

FNPRM
03/04/16
81 FR 11500

FNPRM Comment Period End
04/18/16

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
David Krech, Assoc. Chief, Telecommunications & Analysis Div., Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7443,
Fax:
202 418-2824,
Email:

david.krech@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ77

303. Expanding Broadband and Innovation Through Air-Ground Mobile Broadband Secondary Service for Passengers Aboard Aircraft in the 14.0-14.5 GHz Band; GN Docket No. 13-114

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 301 to 303; 47 U.S.C. 324

Abstract:
In this docket, the Commission establishes a secondary allocation for the Aeronautical Mobile Service in the 14.0-14.5 GHz band and establishes service, technical, and licensing rules for air-ground mobile broadband. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking requests public comment on a secondary allocation and service, technical, and licensing rules for air-ground mobile broadband.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM (Release Date)
05/09/13

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Sean O'More, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2453,
Email:

sean.omore@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK02

304. Terrestrial Use of the 2473-2495 MHz Band for Low-Power Mobile Broadband Networks; Amendments to Rules of Mobile Satellite Service System; IB Docket No. 13-213

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303(c); 47 U.S.C. 303(e); 47 U.S.C. 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(j); 47 U.S.C. 303(r)

Abstract:
In this docket, the Commission proposes modified rules for the operation of the Ancillary Terrestrial Component of the single Mobile-Satellite Service system operating in the Big GEO S band. The changes would allow Globalstar, Inc. to deploy a low-power broadband network using its licensed spectrum at 2483.5-2495 MHz under certain limited technical criteria, and with the same equipment utilize spectrum in the adjacent 2473-2483.5 MHz band, pursuant to technical rules for unlicensed operations in that band.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
02/19/14
79 FR 9445

NPRM Comment Period End
05/05/14

R&O
01/31/17
82 FR 8814

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Stephen Duall, Chief, Satellite Policy Branch, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1103,
Fax:
202 418-0748,
Email:

stephen.duall@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK16

305. Review of Foreign Ownership Policies for Broadcast, Common Carrier and Aeronautical Radio Licensees Under Section 310(B)(4) of the Communications Act of 1934, As Amended (Docket No. 15-236)

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. 211; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 309 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract:
The FCC extended its foreign ownership rules and procedures that apply to common carrier licensees to broadcast licensees, with certain modifications to tailor them to the broadcast context. The FCC also revised the methodology a licensee should use to assess its compliance with the 25 percent foreign ownership benchmark in section 31 0(b)(4) of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, in order to reduce regulatory burdens on applicants and licensees. Finally, the FCC clarified and updated existing foreign ownership policies and procedures for broadcast, common carrier and aeronautical licensees. Notice of a petition for reconsideration of the proceeding was published in the
Federal Register
on February 1, 2017.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
11/06/15
80 FR 68815

NPRM Comment Period End
01/20/16

R&O
12/01/16
81 FR 86586

R&O PRA
12/29/16
81 FR 95993

Petition for Recon
02/01/17
82 FR 8907

Technical Amendment
03/06/17
82 FR 12512

PRA Notice
03/06/17
82 FR 12592

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Kimberly Cook, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7532,
Email:

kimberly.cook@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK47

306. • Update to Parts 2 and 25 Concerning Nongeostationary, Fixed-Satellite Service Systems and Related Matters; IB Docket No. I6-408

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 proposed changes would, among other things, 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.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
01/11/17
82 FR 3258

NPRM Comment Period End
04/10/17

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0803,
Email:

clay.decell@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK59

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

International Bureau

Completed Actions

307. Space Station Licensing Reform (IB Docket No. 02-34)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 303(c); 47 U.S.C. 303(g)

Abstract:
In 2002, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to streamline its procedures for reviewing satellite license applications. The Commission invited comment on alternatives to the processing round” procedure for licensing satellite systems, under which the Commission considered all competing applications at the same time and resolved mutual exclusivity through often lengthy negotiations by the applicants. In the First Report and Order, the Commission adopted a first-come, first-served licensing procedure for most geostationary orbit (GSO) satellite applications, and a modified processing round procedure for most non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite applications. Under the modified processing round procedure, the available spectrum would be divided evenly among the qualified applicants without the need for negotiations. The Commission also adopted measures to discourage speculation, including to require a bond on most satellite licensees, payable if the licensee misses a milestone. The bond amounts were originally set at $5 million for each GSO satellite and $7.5 million for each NGSO satellite system. Concurrently with the First Report and Order, the Commission adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking inviting comment on whether to revise the bond amounts on a long-term basis. In a Second Report and Order, the Commission adopted a streamlined procedure for certain kinds of modified satellite operations.

In a Third Report and Order, the Commission adopted a standardized application form for satellite licenses, and adopted a mandatory electronic filing requirement for certain satellite applications. In a Fourth Report and Order, the Commission extended mandatory electronic filing to all satellite and earth station applications, and implemented two measures that allow space station operators to make certain changes to their systems without prior regulatory approval. In a Fifth Report and Order and First Order on Reconsideration, the Commission denied certain petitions for reconsideration of the First Report and Order and revised the bond amounts from $5 million to $3 million for each GSO satellite and from $7.5 million to $5 million for each NGSO satellite system. In a Second Order on Reconsideration, the Commission eliminated a presumption that at least three satellite licensees were necessary in a processing round to make reasonably efficient use of the available spectrum and amended its rules governing transfers of control of non-U.S.-licensed space stations.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
03/19/02
67 FR 12498

NPRM Comment Period End
07/02/02

Second R&O
11/03/03
68 FR 62247

Second FNPRM
09/12/03
68 FR 53702

Third R&O
11/12/03
68 FR 63994

FNPRM
08/27/03
68 FR 51546

First R&O
08/27/03
68 FR 51499

FNPRM Comment Period End
10/27/03

Fourth R&O
08/06/04
69 FR 47790

Fifth R&O, First Order on Reconsideration
08/20/04
69 FR 51586

2nd Order on Reconsideration
10/31/16
81 FR 75338

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0803,
Email:

clay.decell@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AH98

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Media Bureau

Proposed Rule Stage

308. • Authorizing Permissive Use of the “Next Generation” Broadcast Television Standard (GN Docket No. 16-142)

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; 47 U.S.C. 308; 47 U.S.C. 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 proposes 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. The Commission seeks to adopt rules that will afford broadcasters flexibility to deploy ATSC 3.0-based transmissions, while minimizing the impact on, and costs to, consumers and other industry stakeholders.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
03/10/17
82 FR 13285

NPRM Comment Period End
05/09/17

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Evan Baranoff, Attorney, Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7142,
Email:

evan.baranoff@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK56

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Media Bureau

Final Rule Stage

309. Channel Sharing by Full Power and Class A Stations Outside of the Incentive Auction Context; (MB Docket No. 15-137)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 338; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 614 to 615

Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission considers rules to enable full power and Class A television stations to share a channel with another licensee outside of the incentive auction context.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
07/14/15
80 FR 40957

NPRM Comment Period End
08/13/15

NPRM Reply Comment Period End
08/28/15

1st Order on Recon
11/02/15
80 FR 67337

2nd Order on Recon
11/12/15
80 FR 67344

R&O (Released 03/24/2017)
12/00/17

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact
: Kim Matthews, Attorney, Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-

2154,
Fax:
202 418-2053,
Email:

kim.matthews@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK42

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Media Bureau

Long-Term Actions

310. Broadcast Ownership Rules

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152(a); 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309 and 310

Abstract:
Section 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires the Commission to review its ownership rules every four years and determine whether any such rules are necessary in the public interest as the result of competition. Accordingly, every four years, the Commission undertakes a comprehensive review of its broadcast multiple and cross-ownership limits examining: Cross-ownership of TV and radio stations; local TV ownership limits; national TV cap; and dual network rule. The last review undertaken was the 2014 review. The Commission incorporated the record of the 2010 review, and sought additional data on market conditions and competitive indicators. The Commission also sought comment on whether to eliminate restrictions on newspaper/radio combined ownership and whether to eliminate the radio/television cross-ownership rule in favor of reliance on the local radio rule and the local television rule. Ultimately, the Commission retained the existing rules with modifications to account for the digital television transition. Petitions for reconsideration are pending.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
10/05/01
66 FR 50991

R&O
08/05/03
68 FR 46286

Public Notice
02/19/04
69 FR 9216

FNPRM
08/09/06
71 FR 4511

Second FNPRM
08/08/07
72 FR 44539

R&O and Order on Reconsideration
02/21/08
73 FR 9481

Notice of Inquiry
06/11/10
75 FR 33227

NPRM
01/19/12
77 FR 2868

NPRM Comment Period End
03/19/12

FNPRM
05/20/14
79 FR 29010

2nd R&O
11/01/16
81 FR 76220

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Div., Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2757,
Email:

brendan.holland@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AH97

311. Establishment of Rules for Digital Low-Power Television, Television Translator, and Television Booster Stations (MB Docket No. 03-185)

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.

The Report and Order adopts definitions and permissible use provisions for digital TV translator and LPTV stations. The Second Report and Order takes steps to resolve the remaining issues in order to complete the low-power television digital transition. The third Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks comment on a number of issues related to the potential impact of the incentive auction and the repacking process.

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 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

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Shaun Maher, Attorney, Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2324,
Fax:
202 418-2827,
Email:

shaun.maher@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AI38

312. Promoting Diversification of Ownership in the Broadcast Services (MB Docket No. 07-294)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152(a); 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j); 47 U.S.C. 257; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 534 and 535

Abstract:
Diversity and competition are longstanding and important Commission goals. The measures proposed, as well as those adopted in this proceeding, are intended to promote diversity of ownership of media outlets. In the Report and Order and Third FNPRM, measures are enacted to increase participation in the broadcasting industry by new entrants and small businesses, including minority- and women-owned businesses. In the Report and Order and Fourth FNPRM, the Commission adopts improvements to its data collection in order to obtain an accurate and comprehensive assessment of minority and female broadcast ownership in the United States. The Memorandum Opinion & Order addressed petitions for reconsideration of the rules, and also sought comment on a proposal to expand the reporting requirements to non-attributable interests. In 2016, the Commission made improvements to the collection of data reported on Forms 323 and 323-E.

Pursuant to a remand from the Third Circuit, the measures adopted in the 2009 Diversity Order were put forth for comment in the NPRM for the 2010 review of the Commission's Broadcast Ownership rules. The Commission sought additional comment in 2014. The Commission addressed the remand in the 2016 Second Report and Order.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

R&O
05/16/08
73 FR 28361

Third FNPRM
05/16/08
73 FR 28400

R&O
05/27/09
74 FR 25163

Fourth FNPRM
05/27/09
74 FR 25305

MO&O
10/30/09
74 FR 56131

NPRM
01/19/12
77 FR 2868

5th NPRM
01/15/13
78 FR 2934

6th FNPRM
01/15/13
78 FR 2925

FNPRM
05/20/14
79 FR 29010

7th FNPRM
02/26/15
80 FR 10442

Comment Period End
03/30/15

Reply Comment Period End
04/30/15

R&O
04/04/16
81 FR 19432

2nd R&O
11/01/16
81 FR 76220

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Div., Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2757,
Email:

brendan.holland@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ27

313. Closed Captioning of Internet Protocol-Delivered Video Programming: Implementation of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (MB Docket No. 11-154)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 330(b); 47 U.S.C. 613; 47 U.S.C. 617

Abstract:
Pursuant to the Commission's responsibilities under the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010, this proceeding was initiated to adopt rules to govern the closed captioning requirements for the owners, providers, and distributors of video programming delivered using Internet protocol.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
09/28/11
76 FR 59963

R&O
03/20/12
77 FR 19480

Order on Recon, FNPRM
07/02/13
78 FR 39691

2nd Order on Recon
08/05/14
79 FR 45354

2nd FNPRM
08/05/14
79 FR 45397

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Maria Mullarkey, Attorney, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1067,
Email:

maria.mullarkey@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ67

314. Noncommercial Educational Station Fundraising for Third-Party Nonprofit Organizations (MB Docket No. 12-106)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 399(b)

Abstract:
The proceeding was initiated to analyze the Commission's longstanding policy prohibiting noncommercial educational broadcast stations from conducting on-air fundraising activities that interrupt regular programming for the benefit of third-party nonprofit organizations.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
06/22/12
77 FR 37638

NPRM Comment Period End
07/23/12

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Mary Beth Murphy, Chief, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2132,
Email:

marybeth.murphy@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AJ79

315. Accessibility of User Interfaces and Video Programming Guides and Menus (MB Docket No. 12-108)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 303(aa); 47 U.S.C. 303(bb)

Abstract:
This proceeding was initiated to implement sections 204 and 205 of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act. These sections generally require that user interfaces on digital apparatus and navigation devices used to view video programming be accessible to and usable by individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
06/18/13
78 FR 36478

NPRM Comment Period End
07/15/13

R&O
12/20/13
78 FR 77210

FNPRM
12/20/13
78 FR 77074

2nd FNPRM
02/04/16
81 FR 5971

2nd R&O
02/04/16
81 FR 5921

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Maria Mullarkey, Attorney, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1067,
Email:

maria.mullarkey@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK11

316. Revision to Public Inspection Requirement (MB Docket No. 16-161)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154

Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission eliminates two public inspection file requirements to reduce the regulatory burden on commercial broadcasters and cable operators.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
06/22/16
81 FR 40617

Report and Order
02/23/17
82 FR 11406

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Kim Matthews, Attorney, Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2154,
Fax:
202 418-2053,
Email: kim.matthews@fcc.gov.

RIN:
3060-AK50

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Office of Managing Director

Long-Term Actions

317. Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees for Fiscal Year 2016

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 FCC 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
05/19/16

NPRM Comment Period End
06/20/16

R&O
09/26/16
81 FR 65926

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-AK53

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)

Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau

Long-Term Actions

318. Revision of the Rules To Ensure Compatibility With Enhanced 911 Emergency Calling Systems (CC Docket No. 94-102; PS Docket No. 07-114)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 134(i); 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 208;

47 U.S.C. 215; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309

Abstract:
In a series of orders in several related proceedings issued since 1996, the Federal Communications Commission has taken action to improve the quality and reliability of 911 emergency services for wireless phone users. Rules have been adopted governing the availability of basic 911 services and the implementation of enhanced 911 (E911) for wireless services.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

FNPRM
08/02/96
61 FR 40374

R&O
08/02/96
61 FR 40348

MO&O
01/16/98
63 FR 2631

Second R&O
06/28/99
64 FR 34564

Third R&O
11/04/99
64 FR 60126

Second MO&O
12/29/99
64 FR 72951

Fourth MO&O
10/02/00
65 FR 58657

FNPRM
06/13/01
66 FR 31878

Order
11/02/01
66 FR 55618

R&O
05/23/02
67 FR 36112

Public Notice
07/17/02
67 FR 46909

Order to Stay
07/26/02

Order on Reconsideration
01/22/03
68 FR 2914

FNPRM
01/23/03
68 FR 3214

R&O, Second FNPRM
02/11/04
69 FR 6578

Second R&O
09/07/04
69 FR 54037

NPRM
06/20/07
72 FR 33948

NPRM Comment Period End
09/18/07

R&O
02/14/08
73 FR 8617

Public Notice
09/25/08
73 FR 55473

Comment Period End
10/18/08

Public Notice
11/18/09
74 FR 59539

Comment Period End
12/04/09

FNPRM, NOI
11/02/10
75 FR 67321

Second R&O
11/18/10
75 FR 70604

Order, Comment Period Extension
01/07/11
76 FR 1126

Comment Period End
02/18/11

Final Rule
04/28/11
76 FR 23713

NPRM
08/04/11
76 FR 47114

Second FNPRM
08/04/11
76 FR 47114

3rd R&O
09/28/11
76 FR 59916

NPRM Comment Period End
11/02/11

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

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Timothy May, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1463,
Email: timothy.may@fcc.gov
.

RIN:
3060-AG34

319. Enhanced 911 Services for Wireline and Multi-Line Telephone Systems; PS Docket Nos. 10-255 and 07-114

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 222; 47 U.S.C. 251

Abstract:
The policies set forth in the Report and Order will assist State governments in drafting legislation that will ensure that multi-line telephone systems are compatible with the enhanced 911 network. The Public Notice seeks comment on whether the Commission, rather than States, should regulate multiline telephone systems, and whether part 68 of the Commission's rules should be revised.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
10/11/94
59 FR 54878

FNPRM
01/23/03
68 FR 3214

Second FNPRM
02/11/04
69 FR 6595

R&O
02/11/04
69 FR 6578

Public Notice
01/13/05
70 FR 2405

Comment Period End
03/29/05

NOI
01/13/11
76 FR 2297

NOI Comment Period End
03/14/11

Public Notice (Release Date)
05/21/12

Public Notice Comment Period End
08/06/12

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Timothy May, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1463,
Email: timothy.may@fcc.gov
.

RIN:
3060-AG60

320. Implementation of 911 Act (CC Docket No. 92-105, WT Docket No. 00-110)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 202; 47 U.S.C. 208; 47 U.S.C. 210; 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 251(e); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 308 to 309(j); 47 U.S.C. 310

Abstract:
This proceeding was separate from the Commission's proceeding on Enhanced 911 Emergency Systems (E911) in that it intended to implement provisions of the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 through the promotion of public safety by the deployment of a seamless, nationwide emergency communications infrastructure that includes wireless communications services. More specifically, the chief goal of the proceeding is to ensure that all emergency calls are routed to the appropriate local emergency authority to provide assistance. The E911 proceeding goes a step further and was aimed at improving the effectiveness and reliability of wireless 911 dispatchers with additional information on wireless 911 calls.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

Fourth R&O, Third NPRM
09/19/00
65 FR 56752

NPRM
09/19/00
65 FR 56757

Fifth R&O, First R&O, and MO&O
01/14/02
67 FR 1643

Final Rule
01/25/02
67 FR 3621

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Timothy May, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1463,
Email: timothy.may@fcc.gov
.

RIN:
3060-AH90

321. Commission Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications (PS Docket No. 11-82)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C.155; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 251

Abstract:
The 2004 Report and Order extended the Commission's outage reporting requirements to non-wireline carriers and streamlined reporting through a new electronic template. A Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding the unique communications needs of airports also remains pending. The 2012 Report and Order extended the Commission's outage reporting requirements to interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol services where there is a complete loss of connectivity that has the potential to affect at least 900,000 user minutes. Interconnected VoIP services providers must now file outage reports through the same electronic mechanism as providers of other services. The Commission indicated that the technical issues

involved in identifying and reporting significant outages of broadband Internet services require further study. In May 2016, the Commission released a Report and Order, FNPRM, and Order on Reconsideration (see also dockets 04-35 and 15-80). The FNPRM proposed rules to extend Part 4 outage reporting to broadband services. Comments and replies were received by the Commission in August and September 2016.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
03/26/04
69 FR 15761

FNPRM
11/26/04
69 FR 68859

R&O
12/03/04
69 FR 70316

Announcement of Effective Date and Partial Stay
12/30/04
69 FR 78338

Petition for Reconsideration
02/15/05
70 FR 7737

Amendment of Delegated Authority
02/21/08
73 FR 9462

Public Notice
08/02/10

NPRM
06/09/11
76 FR 33686

NPRM Comment Period End
08/08/11

R&O
04/27/12
77 FR 25088

Final Rule; Correction
01/30/13
78 FR 6216

R&O
07/12/16
81 FR 45055

FNPRM
07/12/16
81 FR 45095

FNPRM Comment Period End
09/12/16

Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.

Agency Contact:
Brenda Villanueva, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7005,
Email: brenda.villanueva@fcc.gov
.

RIN:
3060-AI22

322. E911 Requirements for IP-Enabled Service Providers (Dockets Nos. GN 11-117, PS 07-114, WC 05-196, WC 04-36)

Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 251(e); 47 U.S.C. 303(r)

Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission adopted E911 requirements for interconnected Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) service providers. The pending notices seek comment on what additional steps the Commission should take to ensure that VOIP providers interconnecting with the public switched telephone network, provide ubiquitous and reliable enhanced 911 service.

Timetable:

Action
Date
FR Cite

NPRM
03/29/04
69 FR 16193

NPRM
06/29/05
70 FR 37307

R&O
06/29/05
70 FR 37273

NPRM Comment Period End
09/12/05

NPRM
06/20/07
72 FR 33948

NPRM Comment Period End
09/18/07

FNPRM, NOI
11/02/10
75 FR 67321

Order, Extension of Comment Period
01/

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A2017-16981. Public record. Not legal advice.
