Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions-Fall 2021
Federal RegisterJan 31, 2022
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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
47 CFR Ch. I
Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions—Fall 2021
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, 45 L Street NE, 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 clarify 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. 17-289,” 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 acted 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.
472
Rules and Regulations Implementing the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) of 1991 (CG Docket No. 02-278)
3060-AI14
473
Rules and Regulations Implementing Section 225 of the Communications Act (Telecommunications Relay Service) (CG Docket No. 03-123)
3060-AI15
474
Structure and Practices of the Video Relay Service (VRS) Program (CG Docket No. 10-51)
3060-AJ42
475
Implementation of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012/Establishment of a Public Safety Answering Point Do-Not-Call Registry (CG Docket No. 12-129)
3060-AJ84
476
Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Captioned Telephone Service; Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services; CG Docket No. 13-24
3060-AK01
477
Advanced Methods to Target and Eliminate Unlawful Robocalls (CG Docket No. 17-59)
3060-AK62
Economics—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
478
Development of Nationwide Broadband Data to Evaluate Reasonable and Timely Deployment of Advanced Services to All Americans
3060-AJ15
479
Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum Through Incentive Auctions (GN Docket No. 12-268)
3060-AJ82
Office of Engineering and Technology—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
480
Encouraging the Provision of New Technologies and Services to the Public (GN Docket No. 18-22)
3060-AK80
481
Spectrum Horizon (ET Docket No. 18-21)
3060-AK81
482
Use of the 5.850-5.925 GHz Band (ET Docket No. 19-138)
3060-AK96
483
Allowing Earlier Equipment Marketing and Importation Opportunities; Petition to Expand Marketing Opportunities for Innovative Technologies (ET Docket No. 20-382 & RM-11857) NPRM, 86 FR 2337, January 1
3060-AL18
484
Unlicensed White Space Device Operations in the Television Bands (ET Docket No. 20-36)
3060-AL22
485
Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain through the Equipment Authorization and Competitive Bidding Programs; ET Docket No. 21-232, EA Docket No. 21-233
3060-AL23
486
Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands, 600 MHz Guard Band, 600 MHz Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz
3060-AL27
International Bureau—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
487
Update to Parts 2 and 25 Concerning NonGeostationary, Fixed-Satellite Service Systems, and Related Matters: IB Docket No. I6-408
3060-AK59
488
Amendment of Parts 2 and 25 of the FCC Rules to Facilitate the Use of Earth Stations in Motion Communicating With Geostationary Orbit Space Stations in FSS Bands: IB Docket No. 17-95
3060-AK84
489
Further Streamlining Part 25 Rules Governing Satellite Services: IB Docket No. 18-314
3060-AK87
490
Facilitating the Communications of Earth Stations in Motion With Non-Geostationary Orbit Space Stations: IB Docket No. 18-315
3060-AK89
491
Mitigation of Orbital Debris in the New Space Age: IB Docket No. 18-313
3060-AK90
492
Process Reform for Executive Branch Review of Certain FCC Applications and Petitions Involving Foreign Ownership (IB Docket No. 16-155)
3060-AL12
493
Parts 2 and 25 to Enable GSO FSS in the 17.3-17.8 GHz Band, Modernize Rules for 17/24 GHz BSS Space Stations, and Establish Off-Axis Uplink Power Limits for Extended Ka-Band FSS (IB Doc. No. 20-330)
3060-AL28
Media Bureau—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
494
Revision of EEO Rules and Policies (MM Docket No. 98-204)
3060-AH95
495
Establishment of Rules for Digital Low-Power Television, Television Translator, and Television Booster Stations (MB Docket No. 03-185)
3060-AI38
496
Preserving Vacant Channels in the UHF Television Band for Unlicensed Use; (MB Docket No. 15-146)
3060-AK43
497
Authorizing Permissive Use of the “Next Generation” Broadcast Television Standard (GN Docket No. 16-142)
3060-AK56
498
2018 Quadrennial Regulatory Review of the Commission's Broadcast Ownership Rules (MB Docket 18-349)
3060-AK77
499
Equal Employment Opportunity Enforcement (MB Docket 19-177)
3060-AK86
500
Duplication of Programming on Commonly Owned Radio Stations (MB Docket No. 19-310)
3060-AL19
501
Sponsorship Identification Requirements for Foreign Government-Provided Programming (MB Docket No. 20-299)
3060-AL20
502
FM Broadcast Booster Stations (MB Docket 20-401)
3060-AL21
503
Revisions to Political Programming and Record-Keeping Rules (MB Docket No. 21-93)
3060-AL25
504
Updating Broadcast Radio Technical Rules (MB Docket 21-263)
3060-AL26
Office of Managing Director—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
505
Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees
3060-AK64
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
506
Wireless E911 Location Accuracy Requirements: PS Docket No. 07-114
3060-AJ52
507
Improving Outage Reporting for Submarine Cables and Enhancing Submarine Cable Outage Data; GN Docket No. 15-206
3060-AK39
508
Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications: PS Docket No. 15-80
3060-AK40
509
New Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; ET Docket No. 04-35
3060-AK41
510
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): PS Docket No. 15-91
3060-AK54
511
Blue Alert EAS Event Code
3060-AK63
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
512
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
513
Promoting Technological Solutions to Combat Wireless Contraband Device Use in Correctional Facilities; GN Docket No. 13-111
3060-AK06
514
Promoting Investment in the 3550-3700 MHz Band; GN Docket No. 17-258
3060-AK12
515
Use of Spectrum Bands Above 24 GHz for Mobile Services—Spectrum Frontiers: WT Docket 10-112
3060-AK44
516
Transforming the 2.5 GHz Band, WT Docket No.18-120
3060-AK75
517
Expanding Flexible Use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band: GN Docket No. 18-122
3060-AK76
518
Amendment of the Commission's Rules to Promote Aviation Safety: WT Docket No. 19-140
3060-AK92
519
Implementation of State and Local Governments' Obligation to Approve Certain Wireless Facility Modification Requests Under Section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012 (WT Docket No.19-250)
3060-AL29
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
520
800 MHz Cellular Telecommunications Licensing Reform; Docket No. 12-40
3060-AK13
Wireline Competition Bureau—Long-Term Actions
Sequence No.
Title
Regulation
Identifier No.
521
Local Telephone Networks That LECs Must Make Available to Competitors
3060-AH44
522
Jurisdictional Separations
3060-AJ06
523
Rural Call Completion; WC Docket No. 13-39
3060-AJ89
524
Rates for Inmate Calling Services; WC Docket No. 12-375
3060-AK08
525
Comprehensive Review of the Part 32 Uniform System of Accounts (WC Docket No. 14-130)
3060-AK20
526
Restoring Internet Freedom (WC Docket No. 17-108); Protecting and Promoting the Open Internet (GN Docket No. 14-28)
3060-AK21
527
Technology Transitions; GN Docket No 13-5, WC Docket No. 05-25; Accelerating Wireline Broadband Deployment by Removing Barriers to Infrastructure Investment; WC Docket No. 17-84
3060-AK32
528
Numbering Policies for Modern Communications, WC Docket No. 13-97
3060-AK36
529
Implementation of the Universal Service Portions of the 1996 Telecommunications Act
3060-AK57
530
Toll Free Assignment Modernization and Toll Free Service Access Codes: WC Docket No. 17-192, CC Docket No. 95-155
3060-AK91
531
Establishing the Digital Opportunity Data Collection; WC Docket Nos. 19-195 and 11-10
3060-AK93
532
Call Authentication Trust Anchor
3060-AL00
533
Implementation of the National Suicide Improvement Act of 2018
3060-AL01
534
Modernizing Unbundling and Resale Requirements in an Era of Next-Generation Networks and Services
3060-AL02
535
Eliminating Ex Ante Pricing Regulation and Tariffing of Telephone Access Charges (WC Docket 20-71)
3060-AL03
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
Long-Term Actions
472. 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:
In this docket, the Commission considers rules and policies to implement the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (TCPA). The TCPA places requirements on robocalls (calls using an automatic telephone dialing system, an autodialer, a prerecorded or, an artificial voice), telemarketing calls, and unsolicited fax advertisements.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
10/08/02
67 FR 62667
FNPRM
04/03/03
68 FR 16250
Order
07/25/03
68 FR 44144
Order Effective
08/25/03
Order on Reconsideration
08/25/03
68 FR 50978
Order
10/14/03
68 FR 59130
FNPRM
03/31/04
69 FR 16873
Order
10/08/04
69 FR 60311
Order
10/28/04
69 FR 62816
Order on Reconsideration
04/13/05
70 FR 19330
Order
06/30/05
70 FR 37705
NPRM
12/19/05
70 FR 75102
Public Notice
04/26/06
71 FR 24634
Order
05/03/06
71 FR 25967
NPRM
12/14/07
72 FR 71099
Declaratory Ruling
02/01/08
73 FR 6041
R&O
07/14/08
73 FR 40183
Order on Reconsideration
10/30/08
73 FR 64556
NPRM
03/22/10
75 FR 13471
R&O
06/11/12
77 FR 34233
Public Notice
06/30/10
75 FR 34244
Public Notice (Reconsideration Petitions Filed)
10/03/12
77 FR 60343
Announcement of Effective Date
10/16/12
77 FR 63240
Opposition End Date
10/18/12
Rule Corrections
11/08/12
77 FR 66935
Declaratory Ruling (release date)
11/29/12
Declaratory Ruling (release date)
05/09/13
Declaratory Ruling and Order
10/09/15
80 FR 61129
NPRM
05/20/16
81 FR 31889
Declaratory Ruling
07/05/16
R&O
11/16/16
81 FR 80594
Public Notice
06/28/18
83 FR 26284
Public Notice
10/03/18
Declaratory Ruling
12/06/19
Declaratory Ruling
12/09/19
Order
03/17/20
Declaratory Ruling
03/20/20
Declaratory Ruling
06/25/20
Declaratory Ruling and Order
06/25/20
Order on Reconsideration
08/28/20
Declaratory Ruling
09/04/20
Declaratory Ruling
09/21/20
NPRM
10/09/20
85 FR 64091
Public Notice
12/17/20
Declaratory Ruling
12/18/20
Declaratory Ruling
01/15/21
Order on Recon
02/12/21
86 FR 9299
R&O
02/25/21
86 FR 11443
Public Notice (Reconsideration Petitions Filed)
04/12/21
86 FR 18934
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Kristi Thornton, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2467,
Email: kristi.thornton@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AI14
473. 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 continues the Commission's inquiry into improving the quality of telecommunications relay service (TRS) and furthering the goal of functional equivalency, consistent with Congress' mandate that TRS regulations encourage the use of existing technology and not discourage or impair the development of new technology. In this docket, the Commission explores ways to improve emergency preparedness for TRS facilities and services, new TRS technologies, public access to information and outreach, and issues related to payments from the Interstate TRS Fund.
Timetable:
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
78 FR 63152
FNPRM Comment Period End
11/18/13
Petiton for Reconsideration; Request for Comment
12/16/13
78 FR 76096
Petition for Reconsideration; Request for Comment
12/16/13
78 FR 76097
Request for Clarification; Request for Comment; Correction
12/30/13
78 FR 79362
Petition for Reconsideration Comment Period End
01/10/14
NPRM Comment Period End
01/21/14
Announcement of Effective Date
07/11/14
79 FR 40003
Announcement of Effective Date
08/28/14
79 FR 51446
Correction—Announcement of Effective Date
08/28/14
79 FR 51450
Technical Amendments
09/09/14
79 FR 53303
Public Notice
09/15/14
79 FR 54979
R&O and Order
10/21/14
79 FR 62875
FNPRM
10/21/14
79 FR 62935
FNPRM Comment Period End
12/22/14
Final Action (Announcement of Effective Date)
10/30/14
79 FR 64515
Final Rule Effective
10/30/14
FNPRM
11/08/15
80 FR 72029
FNPRM Comment Period End
01/01/16
Public Notice
01/20/16
81 FR 3085
Public Notice Comment Period End
02/16/16
R&O
03/21/16
81 FR 14984
FNPRM
08/24/16
81 FR 57851
FNPRM Comment Period End
09/14/16
NOI and FNPRM
04/12/17
82 FR 17613
NOI and FNPRM Comment Period End
05/30/17
R&O
04/13/17
82 FR 17754
R&O
04/27/17
82 FR 19322
FNPRM
04/27/17
82 FR 19347
FNPRM Comment Period End
07/11/17
R&O
06/23/17
82 FR 28566
Public Notice
07/21/17
82 FR 33856
Public Notice—Correction
07/25/17
82 FR 34471
Public Notice Comment Period End
07/31/17
Public Notice—Correction Comment Period End
08/17/17
R&O
08/22/17
82 FR 39673
Announcement of Effective Date
10/17/17
82 FR 48203
Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration
10/25/17
82 FR 49303
Oppositions Due Date
11/20/17
R&O and Declaratory Ruling
06/27/18
83 FR 30082
FNPRM
07/18/18
83 FR 33899
FNPRM Comment Period End
11/15/18
Public Notice
08/23/18
83 FR 42630
Public Notice Opposition Period End
09/17/18
Announcement of Effective Date
02/04/19
84 FR 1409
R&O
03/08/19
84 FR 8457
FNPRM
03/14/19
84 FR 9276
FNPRM Comment Period End
04/29/19
R&O
06/06/19
84 FR 26364
FNPRM
06/06/19
84 FR 26379
Petition for Recon Request for Comment
06/18/19
84 FR 28264
Petition for Recon Comment Period End
07/15/19
FNPRM Comment Period End
08/05/19
R&O
01/06/20
85 FR 462
R&O
01/09/20
85 FR 1125
NPRM
01/09/20
85 FR 1134
NPRM Comment Period End
02/13/20
Announcement of Effective Date
02/19/20
85 FR 9392
Final Rule; removal of compliance notices
05/06/20
85 FR 26857
Report & Order
05/08/20
85 FR 27309
Final Rule; correction
08/26/20
85 FR 52489
R&O and Order on Recon
10/14/20
85 FR 64971
Final Rule; announcement of effective and compliance dates
10/23/20
85 FR 67447
FNPRM
02/01/21
86 FR 7681
FNPRM Comment Period End
04/02/21
Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration
02/22/21
86 FR 10458
Oppositions Due Date
03/19/21
R&O
02/23/21
86 FR 10844
NPRM
03/19/21
86 FR 14859
NPRM Comment Period End
05/03/21
NPRM
06/04/21
86 FR 29969
NPRM Correction
06/15/21
86 FR 31668
Order on Recon
07/07/21
86 FR 35632
Public Notice
07/15/21
86 FR 37328
NPRM Correction Comment Period End
07/30/21
Public Notice Comment Period End
08/09/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2235,
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AI15
474. Structure and Practices of the Video Relay Service (VRS) Program (CG Docket No. 10-51)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract:
The Commission takes a fresh look at its VRS rules to ensure that it is available to and used by the full spectrum of eligible users, encourages innovation, and is provided efficiently to be less susceptible to the waste, fraud, and abuse that have plagued the program and threatened its long-term viability. The Commission also considers the most effective and efficient way to make VRS available and to determine what is the most fair, efficient, and transparent cost-recovery methodology. In addition, the Commission looks at various ways to measure the quality of VRS so as to ensure a better consumer experience.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
Declaratory Ruling
05/07/10
75 FR 25255
Declaratory Ruling
07/13/10
75 FR 39945
Order
07/13/10
75 FR 39859
Notice of Inquiry
07/19/10
75 FR 41863
NPRM
08/23/10
75 FR 51735
Interim Final Rule
02/15/11
76 FR 8659
Public Notice
03/02/11
76 FR 11462
R&O
05/02/11
76 FR 24393
FNPRM
05/02/11
76 FR 24437
NPRM
05/02/11
76 FR 24442
R&O (Correction)
05/27/11
76 FR 30841
Order
07/25/11
76 FR 44326
2nd R&O
08/05/11
76 FR 47469
Order (Interim Final Rule)
08/05/11
76 FR 47476
Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date
09/26/11
76 FR 59269
Final Rule; Petition for Reconsideration; Public Notice
09/27/11
76 FR 59557
Oppositions Due Date
10/07/11
Final Rule; Clarification (MO&O)
10/31/11
76 FR 67070
FNPRM
10/31/11
76 FR 67118
Interim Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date
11/03/11
76 FR 68116
Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date
11/04/11
76 FR 68328
Final Rule; Announcement of Effective Date
11/07/11
76 FR 68642
FNPRM Comment Period End
12/30/11
FNPRM
02/01/12
77 FR 4948
FNPRM Comment Period End
03/19/12
Final Rule; Correction
03/27/12
77 FR 18106
Correcting Amendments
06/07/12
77 FR 33662
Order (Release Date)
07/25/12
Correcting Amendments
10/04/12
77 FR 60630
Public Notice
10/29/12
77 FR 65526
Comment Period End
11/29/12
FNPRM
07/05/13
78 FR 40407
R&O
07/05/13
78 FR 40582
FNPRM Comment Period End
09/18/13
Public Notice
09/11/13
78 FR 55696
Public Notice
09/15/14
79 FR 54979
Comment Period End
10/10/14
Final Action (Announcement of Effective Date)
10/30/14
79 FR 64515
Final Rule Effective
10/30/14
FNPRM
11/18/15
80 FR 72029
FNPRM Comment Period End
02/01/16
R&O
03/21/16
81 FR 14984
FNPRM
08/24/16
81 FR 57851
FNPRM Comment Period End
09/14/16
NOI and FNPRM
04/12/17
82 FR 17613
NOI and FNPRM Comment Period End
05/30/17
R&O
04/13/17
82 FR 17754
R&O
04/27/17
82 FR 19322
FNPRM
04/27/17
82 FR 19347
FNPRM Comment Period End
07/01/17
Order
06/23/17
82 FR 28566
Public Notice
07/21/17
82 FR 33856
Public Notice Comment Period End
07/31/17
Public Notice Correction
07/25/17
82 FR 34471
Public Notice Correction Comment Period End
08/17/17
R&O and Order
08/22/17
82 FR 39673
Announcement of Effective Date
10/17/17
82 FR 48203
Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration
10/25/17
82 FR 49303
Oppositions Due Date
11/20/17
R&O
06/06/19
84 FR 26364
FNPRM
06/06/19
84 FR 26379
FNPRM Comment Period End
08/05/19
Report & Order
05/08/20
85 FR 27309
R&O and Order on Recon
10/14/20
85 FR 64971
Final rule; announcement of effective and compliance dates
10/23/20
85 FR 67447
FNPRM
02/01/21
86 FR 7681
FNPRM Comment Period End
04/02/21
Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration
02/22/21
86 FR 10458
Oppositions Due Date
03/19/21
NPRM
03/19/21
86 FR 14859
NPRM Comment Period End
05/03/21
NPRM
06/04/21
86 FR 29969
NPRM Correction
06/15/21
86 FR 31668
NPRM Correction Comment Period End
07/30/21
Order on Recon
07/07/21
86 FR 35632
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2235,
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AJ42
475. Implementation of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012/Establishment of a Public Safety Answering Point Do-Not-Call Registry (CG Docket No. 12-129)
Legal Authority:
Pub. L. 112-96, sec. 6507
Abstract:
The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 required the Commission to create a Do-Not-Call Registry for public safety answering point (PSAP) telephone numbers and to prohibit the use of automated dialing equipment to place calls to PSAP numbers on the Registry. In this docket, the Commission adopted rules and policies implementing these statutory requirements.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/21/12
77 FR 37362
R&O
10/29/12
77 FR 71131
Correction Amendments
02/13/13
78 FR 10099
Announcement of Effective Date
03/26/13
78 FR 18246
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
476. 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 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiated this proceeding in its effort to ensure that Internet-Protocol Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS) is provided effectively and in the most efficient manner. In doing so, the FCC adopted rules to address certain practices related to the provision and marketing of IP CTS, as well as compensation of TRS providers. IP CTS is a form of relay service designed to allow people with hearing loss to speak directly to another party on a telephone call and to simultaneously listen to the other party and read captions of what that party is saying over an IP-enabled device. To ensure that IP CTS is provided efficiently to persons who need to use
this service, the Commission adopted rules establishing several requirements and issued an FNPRM to address additional issues.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
02/05/13
78 FR 8090
Order (Interim Rule)
02/05/13
78 FR 8032
Order
02/05/13
78 FR 8030
Announcement of Effective Date
03/07/13
78 FR 14701
NPRM Comment Period End
03/12/13
R&O
08/30/13
78 FR 53684
FNPRM
09/03/13
78 FR 54201
FNPRM Comment Period End
11/18/13
Petition for Reconsideration Request for Comment
12/16/13
78 FR 76097
Petition for Reconsideration Comment Period End
01/10/14
Announcement of Effective Date
07/11/14
79 FR 40003
Announcement of Effective Date
08/28/14
79 FR 51446
Correction—Announcement of Effective Date
08/28/14
79 FR 51450
Technical Amendments
09/09/14
79 FR 53303
R&O and Declaratory Ruling
06/27/18
83 FR 30082
FNPRM
07/18/18
83 FR 33899
Public Notice
08/23/18
83 FR 42630
Public Notice Opposition Period End
09/17/18
FNPRM Comment Period End
11/15/18
Announcement of Effective Date
02/04/19
84 FR 1409
R&O
03/08/19
84 FR 8457
FNPRM
03/14/19
84 FR 9276
FNPRM Comment Period End
04/29/19
Petition for Recon Request for Comment
06/18/19
84 FR 28264
Petition for Recon Comment Period End
07/15/19
R&O
01/06/20
85 FR 462
Announcement of Effective Date
02/19/20
85 FR 9392
Final Rule; Removal of Compliance Notes
05/06/20
85 FR 26857
Final Rule; correction
08/26/20
85 FR 52489
R&O and Order on Recon
10/14/20
85 FR 64971
FNPRM
02/01/21
86 FR 7681
Public Notice; Petition for Reconsideration
02/22/21
86 FR 10458
NPRM
03/19/21
86 FR 14859
Oppositions Due Date
03/19/21
FNPRM Comment Period End
04/02/21
NPRM Comment Period End
05/03/21
Public Notice
07/15/21
86 FR 37328
Public Notice Comment Period End
08/09/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2235,
Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK01
477. Advanced Methods To Target and Eliminate Unlawful Robocalls (CG Docket No. 17-59)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 201 and 202; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 251(e)
Abstract:
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 restricts the use of robocalls autodialed or prerecorded calls in certain instances. In CG Docket No. 17-59, the Commission considers rules and policies aimed at eliminating unlawful robocalling. Among the issues it examines in this docket are whether to allow carriers to block calls that purport to be from unallocated or unassigned phone numbers through the use of spoofing, whether to allow carriers to block calls based on their own analyses of which calls are likely to be unlawful and whether to establish a database of reassigned phone numbers to help prevent robocalls to consumers, who did not consent to such calls.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM/NOI
05/17/17
82 FR 22625
2nd NOI
07/13/17
NPRM Comment Period End
07/31/17
FNPRM
01/08/18
83 FR 770
R&O
01/12/18
83 FR 1566
2nd FNPRM
04/23/18
83 FR 17631
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End
06/07/18
2nd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
07/09/18
2nd R&O
03/26/19
84 FR 11226
3rd FNPRM
06/24/19
84 FR 29478
Declaratory Ruling
06/24/19
84 FR 29387
Public Notice Seeking Input on Report
12/30/19
Public Notice Seeking Comment on Reassigned Numbers
01/24/20
Public Notice Seeking Comment on RND Cost/Fee Structure
02/26/20
Public Notice Establishing Guidelines for RND
04/16/20
Report
06/25/20
3rd NPRM Comment Date
06/26/20
Announcement of Compliance Dates
06/26/20
85 FR 38334
3rd R&O, Order of Reconsideration, 4th FNPRM
07/31/20
85 FR 46063
4th R&O (release date)
12/30/20
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Karen Schroeder, Associate Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0654,
Email: karen.schroeder@fcc.gov.
Jerusha Burnett, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0526,
Email: jerusha.burnett@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK62
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Economics
Long-Term Actions
478. Development of Nationwide Broadband Data To Evaluate Reasonable and Timely Deployment of Advanced Services to all Americans
Legal Authority:
15 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 252; 47 U.S.C. 257; 47 U.S.C. 271; 47 U.S.C. 1302; 47 U.S.C. 160(b); 47 U.S.C. 161(a)(2)
Abstract:
The Report and Order streamlined and reformed the Commission's Form 477 Data Program, which is the Commission's primary tool to collect data on broadband and telephone services.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
05/16/07
72 FR 27519
Order
07/02/08
73 FR 37861
Order
10/15/08
73 FR 60997
NPRM
02/08/11
76 FR 10827
Order
06/27/13
78 FR 49126
NPRM
08/24/17
82 FR 40118
NPRM Comment Period End
09/25/17
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
10/10/17
R&O and FNPRM
08/22/19
84 FR 43764
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Suzanne Mendez, Program Analyst, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0941,
Email: suzanne.mendez@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AJ15
479. Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum Through Incentive Auctions (GN Docket No. 12-268)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 309(j)(8)(G); 47 U.S.C. 1452
Abstract:
In February 2012, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act was enacted (Pub. L. 112-96, 126 Stat. 156 (2012)). Title VI of that statute, commonly known as the Spectrum Act, provides the Commission with the authority to conduct incentive auctions to meet the growing demand for wireless broadband. Pursuant to the Spectrum Act, the Commission may conduct incentive auctions that will offer new initial spectrum licenses subject to flexible-use service rules on spectrum made available by licensees that voluntarily relinquish some or all of their spectrum usage rights in exchange for a portion, based on the value of the relinquished rights as determined by an auction, of the proceeds of bidding for the new licenses. In addition to granting the Commission general authority to conduct incentive auctions, the Spectrum Act requires the Commission to conduct an incentive auction of broadcast TV spectrum and sets forth special requirements for such an auction.
The Spectrum Act requires that the BIA consist of a reverse auction “to determine the amount of compensation that each broadcast television licensee would accept in return for voluntarily relinquishing some or all of its spectrum usage rights” and a forward auction of licenses in the reallocated spectrum for flexible-use services, including mobile broadband. Broadcast television licensees who elected to voluntarily participate in the auction had three bidding options: Go off-the-air, share spectrum with another broadcast television licensee, or move channels to the upper or lower VHS band in exchange for receiving part of the proceeds from auctioning that spectrum to wireless providers. The Spectrum Act also authorized the Commission to reorganize the 600 MHz band following the BIA including, as necessary, reassigning full power and Class A television stations to new channels in order to clear the spectrum sold in the BIA. That post-auction reorganization (known as the repack) is currently underway and all of the stations who were assigned new channels are scheduled to have vacated their pre-auction channels by July 3, 2020, pursuant to a 10-phase transition schedule adopted by the Commission.
In May 2014, the Commission adopted a Report and Order that laid out the general framework for the BIA. The auction started on March 29, 2016, with the submission of initial commitments by eligible broadcast licensees. The BIA ended on April 13, 2017, with the release of the Auction Closing and Channel Reassignment Public Notice that also marked the start of the 39-month transition period during which 987 of the full power and Class A television stations remaining on-the-air will transition their stations to their post-auction channel assignments in the reorganized television band. Pursuant to the Spectrum Act, the Commission will reimburse 957 of those full power and Class A stations for the reasonable costs associated with relocating to their post-auction channel assignments and will reimburse multichannel video programming distributors for their costs associated with continuing to carry the signals of those stations.
In March 2018, the Consolidated Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 115-141, at Div. E, Title V, 511, 132 Stat. 348 (2018), codified at 47 U.S.C. 1452(j)-(n)) (the Reimbursement Expansion Act or REA), extended the deadline for reimbursement of eligible entities from April 2020 to no later than July 3, 2023, and also expanded the universe of entities eligible for reimbursement to include low-power television stations and TV translator stations displaced by the BIA for their reasonably incurred costs to relocate to a new channel, and FM broadcast stations for their reasonably incurred costs for facilities necessary to reasonably minimize disruption of service as a result of the post-auction reorganization of the television band. On March 15, 2019, the Commission adopted a Report and Order setting rules for the reimbursement of eligible costs to those newly eligible entities.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
11/21/12
77 FR 69933
R&O
08/15/14
79 FR 48441
Final Rule
10/11/17
82 FR 47155
NPRM
08/27/18
83 FR 43613
R&O
03/26/19
84 FR 11233
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Jean L. Kiddoo, Chair, Incentive Auction Task Force, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7757,
Email: jean.kiddoo@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AJ82
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Office of Engineering and Technology
Long-Term Actions
480. Encouraging the Provision of New Technologies and Services to the Public (GN Docket No. 18-22)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(3)
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the FCC seeks to establish rules describing guidelines and procedures to implement the stated policy goal of section 7 to encourage the provision of new technologies and services to the public. Although the forces of competition and technological growth work together to enable the development and deployment of many new technologies and services to the public, the Commission has at times been slow to identify and take action to ensure that important new technologies or services are made available as quickly as possible. The Commission has sought to overcome these impediments by streamlining many of its processes but all too often regulatory delays can adversely impact newly proposed technologies or services.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
04/04/18
83 FR 14395
Comment Period End
05/04/18
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-AK80
481. Spectrum Horizon (ET Docket No. 18-21)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 332; sec. 76 of 1996 Telecom Act, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 302 and sec. 1.411
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the FCC seeks to implement a plan to make the spectrum above 95 GHz more readily accessible for new innovative services and technologies. Throughout its history, when the Commission has expanded access to what was thought to be the upper reaches of the usable spectrum, new technological advances have emerged to push the boundary of usable spectrum even further. The frequencies above 95 GHz are today's spectrum horizons. The Notice sought comment on proposed rules to permit licensed fixed point-to-point operations in a total of 102.2 gigahertz of spectrum; on making 15.2 gigahertz of spectrum available for unlicensed use; and on creating a new category of experimental licenses to increase opportunities for entities to develop new services and technologies from 95 GHz to 3 THz with no limits on geography or technology.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
04/02/18
83 FR 13888
ANPRM Comment Period End
05/02/18
R&O
06/14/19
84 FR 25685
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Michael Ha, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
201 418-2099,
Email: michael.ha@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK81
482. Use of the 5.850-5.925 GHz Band (ET Docket No. 19-138)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 1; 47 U.S.C. 4(i); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 CFR 1.411
Abstract:
In this proceeding, we repurpose 45 megahertz of the 5.850-5.925 GHz band (the 5.9 GHz band) to allow for the expansion of unlicensed mid-band spectrum operations, while continuing to dedicate 30 megahertz of spectrum for vital intelligent transportation system (ITS) operations. In addition, to promote the most efficient and effective use of this ITS spectrum, we are requiring the ITS service to use cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) based technology at the end of a transition period. By splitting the 5.9 GHz band between unlicensed and ITS uses, today's decision puts the 5.9 GHz band in the best position to serve the needs of the American public.
In the Further Notice, the Commission addresses issues remaining to finalize the restructuring of the 5.9 GHz band. Specifically, the Commission addresses: The transition of ITS operations in the 5.895-5.925 GHz band from Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) based technology to Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) based technology; the codification of C-V2X technical parameters in the Commission's rules; other transition considerations; and the transmitter power and emissions limits, and other issues, related to full-power outdoor unlicensed operations across the entire 5.850-5.895 GHz portion of the 5.9 GHz band. The Commission modified the Further Notice released on November 20, 2020, with an Erratum released on December 11, 2020. The Commission released a Second Erratum on February 9, 2021. The corrections from these errata are included in this document.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
02/06/20
85 FR 6841
NPRM Comment Period End
03/09/20
R&O & Order of Proposed Modification
05/03/21
86 FR 23281
FNPRM
05/03/21
86 FR 23323
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Howard Griboff, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0657,
Fax:
202 418-2824,
Email: howard.griboff@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK96
483. Allowing Earlier Equipment Marketing and Importation Opportunities; Petition To Expand Marketing Opportunities for Innovative Technologies (ET Docket No. 20-382 & RM-11857) NPRM, 86 FR 2337, January 1
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i), 301, 302a, 303(c), 303(f), and 303(r)
Abstract:
In this document, the Commission recognize that our equipment authorization rules have in some ways failed to keep pace with developments in the modern device ecosystem. In particular, our rules limit the ability of device manufacturers to market and import radiofrequency devices in the most efficient and cost-effective ways possible. We therefore take the opportunity here to propose specific rule changes that would allow device manufacturers to take full advantage of modern marketing and importation practices.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/12/21
86 FR 2337
NPRM Comment Period End
02/11/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Thomas Struble, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2470,
Email: thomas.struble@fcc.gov
.
Brian Butler, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2702,
Email: brian.butler@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AL18
484. Unlicensed White Space Device Operations in the Television Bands (ET Docket No. 20-36)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 302a; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 1.407 and 1.411
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission revises its rules to provide additional opportunities for unlicensed white space devices operating in the broadcast television bands (TV bands) to deliver wireless broadband services in rural areas and applications associated with the Internet of Things (IoT). This region of the spectrum has excellent propagation characteristics that make it particularly attractive for delivering communications services over long distances, coping with variations in terrain, as well as providing coverage into and within buildings. We offer
several proposals to spur continued growth of the white space device ecosystem, especially for providing affordable broadband service to rural and underserved communities that can help close the digital divide.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
04/03/20
85 FR 18901
NPRM Comment Period End
04/03/20
R&O
01/12/21
86 FR 2278
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7506,
Fax:
202 418-1944,
Email: hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AL22
485. • Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain Through the Equipment Authorization and Competitive Bidding Programs; ET Docket No. 21-232, EA Docket No. 21-233
Legal Authority:
Secs. 4(i), 301, 302, 303, 309(j), 312, and 316 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. secs. 154(i), 301, 302a, 303, 309(j), 312, 316, and sec. 1.411
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission proposes prohibiting the authorization of any communications equipment on the list of equipment and services (Covered List) that the Commission maintains pursuant to the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019. Such equipment has been found to pose an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States or the security and safety of United States persons. We also seek comment on whether and under what circumstances we should revoke any existing authorizations of such “covered” communications equipment. We invite comment on whether we should require additional certifications relating to national security from applicants who wish to participate in Commission auctions. In the Notice of Inquiry, we seek comment on other actions the Commission should consider taking to create incentives in its equipment authorization processes for improved trust through the adoption of cybersecurity best practices in consumer devices.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM and NOI
08/19/21
86 FR 46644
NPRM Comment Period End
09/20/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Jamie Coleman, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2705,
Email: jaime.coleman@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AL23
486. • Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands, 600 MHz Guard Band, 600 MHz Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. secs. 154(i), 201, 302a, 303, and secs. 1.407 and 1.411
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to enhance the spectral efficiency of wireless microphones by permitting a recently developed type of wireless microphone system, termed herein as a Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System (WMAS), to operate in certain frequency bands. This emerging technology would enable more wireless microphones to operate in the spectrum available for wireless microphone operations, and thus advances an important Commission goal of promoting efficient spectrum use. The Commission proposes to revise the applicable technical rules for operation of low-power auxiliary station (LPAS) devices to permit WMAS to operate in the broadcast television (TV) bands and other LPAS frequency bands on a licensed basis. The Commission also proposes to update the existing LPAS and wireless microphone rules to reflect the end of the post-Incentive auction transition period and update references to international wireless microphone standards.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
07/01/21
86 FR 35046
NPRM Comment Period End
08/02/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7506,
Fax:
202 418-1944,
Email:
hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AL27
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
International Bureau
Long-Term Actions
487. 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 Commission proposed among other things, to provide for more flexible use of the 17.8-20.2 GHz bands for FSS, promote shared use of spectrum among NGSO FSS satellite systems, and remove unnecessary design restrictions on NGSO FSS systems. The Commission subsequently adopted a Report and Order establishing new sharing criteria among NGSO FSS systems and providing additional flexibility for FSS spectrum use. The Commission also released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to remove the domestic coverage requirement for NGSO FSS systems and later adopted a Second Report and Order removing this requirement.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/11/17
82 FR 3258
NPRM Comment Period End
04/10/17
FNPRM
11/15/17
82 FR 52869
R&O
12/18/17
82 FR 59972
FNPRM Comment Period End
01/02/18
2nd R&O
02/21/21
86 FR 11642
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0803,
Email:
clay.decell@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK59
488. Amendment of Parts 2 and 25 of the FCC Rules To Facilitate the Use of Earth Stations in Motion Communicating With Geostationary Orbit Space Stations in FSS Bands: IB Docket No. 17-95
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract:
In June 2017, the Commission began a rulemaking to streamline, consolidate, and harmonize rules governing earth stations in motion (ESIMs) used to provide satellite-based services on ships, airplanes and vehicles communicating with geostationary-satellite orbit (GSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS) satellite systems. In September 2018, the Commission adopted rules governing communications of ESIMs with GSO satellites. These rules addressed communications in the conventionalC-, Ku-, and Ka-bands, as well as portions of the extended Ku-band. At the same time, the Commission also released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that sought comment on allowing ESIMs to operate in all of the frequency bands in which earth stations at fixed locations operating in GSO FSS satellite networks can be blanket-licensed. Specifically, comment was sought on expanding the frequencies available for communications of ESIMs with GSO FSS satellites to include the following frequency bands: 10.7-10.95 GHz, 11.2-11.45 GHz, 17.8-18.3 GHz, 18.8-19.3 GHz, 19.3-19.4 GHz, 19.6-19.7 GHz (space-to-Earth); and 28.6-29.1 GHz (Earth-to-space).
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/16/17
82 FR 27652
NPRM Comment Period End
08/30/17
OMB-approval for Information Collection of R&O Comment Period End
08/28/18
FNPRM
07/24/20
85 FR 44818
R&O
07/24/20
85 FR 44772
FNPRM Comment Period End
09/22/20
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Cindy Spiers, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1593,
Email:
cindy.spiers@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK84
489. Further Streamlining Part 25 Rules Governing Satellite Services: IB Docket No. 18-314
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. secs. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 161; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract:
Under the Commission's rules, satellite operators must follow separate application and authorization processes for the satellites and earth stations that make up their networks and have no option for a single, unified network license. In a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the FCC proposed to create a new, optional, unified license to include both space stations and earth stations operating in a geostationary-satellite orbit, fixed-satellite service (GSO FSS) satellite network. In addition, the Commission proposed to repeal or modify unnecessarily burdensome rules in Part 25 governing satellite services, such as annual reporting requirements. These proposals would greatly simplify the Commission's licensing and regulation of satellite systems. In a subsequent Report and Order, the Commission streamlined its rules governing satellite services by creating an optional framework for the authorization of blanket-licensed earth stations and space stations in a satellite system through a unified license. The Commission also aligned the build-out requirements for earth stations and space stations and eliminated unnecessary reporting rules.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/31/19
84 FR 638
NPRM Comment Period End
03/18/19
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
04/16/19
Report & Order
03/01/21
86 FR 11880
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0803,
Email:
clay.decell@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK87
490. Facilitating the Communications of Earth Stations in Motion With Non-Geostationary Orbit Space Stations: IB Docket No. 18-315
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract:
In November 2018, the Commission adopted a notice of proposed rulemaking that proposed to expand the scope of the Commission's rules governing ESIMs operations to cover communications with NGSO FSS satellites. Comment was sought on establishing a regulatory framework for communications of ESIMs with NGSO FSS satellites that would be analogous to that which exists for ESIMs communicating with GSO FSS satellites. In this context, comment was sought on: (1) Allowing ESIMs to communicate in many of the same conventional Ku-band, extended Ku-band, and Ka-band frequencies that were allowed for communications of ESIMs with GSO FSS satellites (with the exception of the 18.6-18.8 GHz and 29.25-29.5 GHz frequency bands); (2) extending blanket licensing to ESIMs communicating with NGSO satellites; and (3) revisions to specific provisions in the Commission's rules to implement these changes. The specific frequency bands for communications of ESIMs with NGOS FSS satellites on which comment was sought are as follows: 10.7-11.7 GHz; 11.7-12.2 GHz; 14.0-14.5 GHz; 17.8-18.3 GHz; 18.3-18.6 GHz; 18.8-19.3 GHz; 19.3-19.4 GHz; 19.6-19.7 GHz; 19.7-20.2 GHz; 28.35-28.6 GHz; 28.6-29.1 GHz; and 29.5-30.0 GHz.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
12/28/18
83 FR 67180
NPRM Comment Period End
03/13/19
R&O
07/24/20
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Cindy Spiers, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1593,
Email:
cindy.spiers@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK89
491. Mitigation of Orbital Debris in the New Space Age: IB Docket No. 18-313
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 308; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 605; 47 U.S.C. 721
Abstract:
The Commission's current orbital debris rules were first adopted in 2004. Since then, significant changes have occurred in satellite technologies and market conditions, particularly in Low Earth Orbit,
i.e.,
below 2,000 kilometers altitude. These changes
include the increasing use of lower cost small satellites and proposals to deploy large constellations of non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) systems, some involving thousands of satellites.
The NPRM proposes changes to improve disclosure of debris mitigation plans. The NPRM also makes proposals and seeks comment related to satellite disposal reliability and methodology, appropriate deployment altitudes in low-Earth-orbit, and on-orbit lifetime, with a particular focus on large NGSO satellite constellations. Other aspects of the NPRM include new rule proposals for geostationary orbit satellite (GSO) license term extension requests, and consideration of disclosure requirements related to several emerging technologies and new types of commercial operations, including rendezvous and proximity operations.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
02/19/19
84 FR 4742
NPRM Comment Period End
05/06/19
R&O
08/25/20
85 FR 52422
FNPRM
08/25/20
85 FR 52455
FNPRM Comment Period End
10/09/20
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Merissa Velez, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0751,
Email:
merissa.velez@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK90
492. Process Reform for Executive Branch Review of Certain FCC Applications and Petitions Involving Foreign Ownership (IB Docket No. 16-155)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C 154(l); 47 U.S.C . 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 413; 47 U.S.C. 34-39; E.O. 10530; 3 U.S.C. 301
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission considers rules and procedures that streamline and improve the timeliness and transparency of the process by which the Commission refers certain applications and petitions for declaratory ruling to the Executive Branch agencies for assessment of any national security, law enforcement, foreign policy or trade policy issues related to foreign investment in the applicants and petitioners.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/24/16
81 FR 46870
NPRM Comment Period End
09/02/16
Public Notice
04/27/20
85 FR 29914
Public Notice Comment Period End
09/02/20
Report & Order
10/01/20
85 FR 76360
Public Notice
12/30/20
85 FR 12312
Public Notice Comment Period End
04/19/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Arthur T. Lechtman, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1465,
Fax:
202 418-0175,
Email:
arthur.lechtman@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AL12
493. • Parts 2 and 25 To Enable GSO FSS in the 17.3-17.8 GHz Band, Modernize Rules for 17/24 GHz BSS Space Stations, and Establish Off-Axis Uplink Power Limits for Extended Ka-Band FSS (IB Doc. No. 20-330)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 309(j)
Abstract:
This item addresses the addition of an allocation in the 17.3-17.7 GHz and 17.7-17.8 GHz bands to the fixed-satellite service in the space-to-Earth direction. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposes to add these allocations to the U.S. Table of Frequency Allocations (non-Federal), and proposes modification of existing technical rules to prevent harmful interference between services in these bands.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
02/01/21
86 FR 7660
NPRM Comment Period End
03/03/21
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
03/18/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Sean O'More, Attorney Advisor, International Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
245 418-2453,
Email:
sean.omore@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AL28
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Media Bureau
Long-Term Actions
494. Revision of EEO Rules and Policies (MM Docket No. 98-204)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 257; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 334; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 554
Abstract:
FCC authority to govern Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) responsibilities of cable television operators was codified in the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984. This authority was extended to television broadcast licensees and other multi-channel video programming distributors in the Cable and Television Consumer Protection Act of 1992. In the Second Report and Order, the FCC adopted new EEO rules and policies. This action was in response to a decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit that found prior EEO rules unconstitutional. The Third Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) requests comment as to the applicability of the EEO rules to part-time employees. The Third Report and Order adopted revised forms for broadcast station and MVPDs Annual Employment Report. In the Fourth NPRM, comment was sought regarding public access to the data contained in the forms.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/14/02
67 FR 1704
Second R&O and Third NPRM
01/07/03
68 FR 670
Correction
01/13/03
68 FR 1657
Fourth NPRM
06/23/04
69 FR 34986
Third R&O
06/23/04
69 FR 34950
FNPRM
08/31/21
86 FR 48610
FNPRM Comment Period End
09/30/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2486,
Email:
brendan.holland@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AH95
495. 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 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, Video Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2324,
Fax:
202 418-2827,
Email:
shaun.maher@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AI38
496. Preserving Vacant Channels in the UHF Television Band for Unlicensed Use (MB Docket No. 15-146)
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. 310; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 403
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission considers proposals to preserve vacant television channels in the UHF television band for shared use by white space devices and wireless microphones following the repacking of the band after the conclusion of the Incentive Auction. In the 2015 NPRM, the Commission proposed preserving in each area of the country at least one vacant television channel. In the 2021 Report and Order, the Commission declined to adopt rules proposed in the 2015 NPRM. Petitions for reconsideration are pending.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
07/02/15
80 FR 38158
NPRM Comment Period End
08/03/15
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
08/31/15
Public Notice
09/01/15
80 FR 52715
R&O
02/12/21
86 FR 9297
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Shaun Maher, Attorney, Video Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2324,
Fax:
202 418-2827,
Email: shaun.maher@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK43
497. 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 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 325(b); 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 399(b); 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 534; 47 U.S.C. 535
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to authorize television broadcasters to use the “Next Generation” ATSC 3.0 broadcast television transmission standard on a voluntary, market-driven basis, while they continue to deliver current-generation digital television broadcast service to their viewers. In the Report and Order, the Commission adopted rules to afford broadcasters flexibility to deploy ATSC 3.0-based transmissions, while minimizing the impact on, and costs to, consumers and other industry stakeholders.
In the 2nd R&O, the Commission provided additional guidance to broadcasters deploying Next Gen TV.
In 2021, the Commission made a technical modification to the rules governing the use of a distribution transmission system by a television station to account for deployment of ATSC 3.0.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
03/10/17
82 FR 13285
NPRM Comment Period End
05/09/17
FNPRM
12/20/17
82 FR 60350
R&O
02/02/18
83 FR 4998
FNPRM Comment Period End
02/20/18
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
03/20/18
NPRM
05/13/20
85 FR 28586
2nd R&O Order on Recon
07/17/20
85 FR 43478
Report & Order
04/22/21
86 FR 21217
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Ty Bream, Attorney Advisor, Industry Analysis Div., Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0644,
Email:
ty.bream@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK56
498. 2018 Quadrennial Regulatory Review of the Commission's Broadcast Ownership Rules (MB Docket 18-349)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152(a); 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 257; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309 and 310; 47 U.S.C. 403; sec. 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act
Abstract:
Section 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires the Commission to review its broadcast ownership rules every 4 years and to determine whether any such rules are necessary in the public interest as the result of competition. The rules subject to review in the 2018 quadrennial review are the Local Radio Ownership Rule, the Local Television Ownership Rule, and the Dual Network Rule. The Commission also sought comment on potential pro-diversity proposals including extending cable procurement requirements to broadcasters, adopting formulas aimed at creating media ownership limits that promote diversity, and developing a model for market-based, tradeable diversity credits to serve as an alternative method for setting ownership limits.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
02/28/19
84 FR 6741
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division,
Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2486,
Email:
brendan.holland@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK77
499. Equal Employment Opportunity Enforcement (MB Docket 19-177)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 334; 47 U.S.C. 554
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission seeks comment on ways in which it can make improvements to equal employment opportunity (EEO) compliance and enforcement.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
07/22/19
84 FR 35063
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Radhika Karmarker, Attorney Advisor, IAD, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1523,
Email:
radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK86
500. Duplication of Programming on Commonly Owned Radio Stations (MB Docket No. 19-310)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151. 154(i), 154(j), and 303(r)
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission eliminated the radio duplication rule. The rule bars same-service (AM or FM) commercial radio stations from duplicating more than 25% of their total hours of programming in an average broadcast week if the stations have 50% or more contour overlap and are commonly owned or subject to a time brokerage agreement. Petitions for reconsideration are pending.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
12/23/19
84 FR 70485
Report & Order
10/22/20
85 FR 67303
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Jamile Kadre, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2245,
Email: jamile.kadre@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AL19
501. Sponsorship Identification Requirements for Foreign Government-Provided Programming (MB Docket No. 20-299)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151. 154, 155, 301, 303, 307, 309, 310, 334, 336, 339
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission modifies its rules to require specific disclosure requirements for broadcast programming that is paid for, or provided by a foreign government or its representative. Petitions for reconsideration are pending.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
11/24/20
85 FR 74955
R&O
06/17/21
86 FR 32221
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Radhika Karmarker, Attorney Advisor, IAD, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1523,
Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AL20
502. FM Broadcast Booster Stations (MB Docket 20-401)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151, 154, 157, 301, 302, 303, 307, 308, 309, 316, 319, 324
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission proposes to amend its rules to enable FM broadcasters to use FM booster stations to air geo-targeted content (
e.g.,
news, weather, and advertisements) independent of the signals of its primary station within different portions of the primary station's protected service contour for a limited period of time during the broadcast hour.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/11/21
86 FR 1909
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Al Shuldiner, Chief, Audio Div., Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2700,
Email: albert.shuldiner@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AL21
503. • Revisions to Political Programming and Record-Keeping Rules (MB Docket No. 21-93)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C secs. 151, 154(i), 154(j), 303, 307, 312, 315, 335, and 403
Abstract:
This proceeding was initiated to update the political programming and recordkeeping rules for broadcast licensees, cable television system operators, Direct Broadcast Satellite service providers, and Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service licensees. Given the substantial growth of such programming in recent years, the updates under consideration in this proceeding are intended to conform the Commission's rules with statutory amendments, increase transparency, and account for modern campaign practices.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
09/01/21
86 FR 48942
NPRM Comment Period End
10/01/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Robert Baker, Assistant Division Chief, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1417,
Email: robert.baker@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AL25
504. • Updating Broadcast Radio Technical Rules (MB Docket 21-263)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. secs. 151, 154(i), 154(j), 301, 303, 307, 308, 309, 316, and 319
Abstract:
This proceeding was initiated to update the Commission's rules for the broadcast radio services by eliminating or amending outmoded or unnecessary regulations. This update will ensure that the Commission's rules are accurate, reducing any potential confusion and alleviating unnecessary burdens.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
07/12/21
86 FR 43145
NPRM Comment Period End
09/07/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Christine Goepp, Attorney Advisor, Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7834,
Email: christine.goepp@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AL26
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Office of Managing Director
Long-Term Actions
505. Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 159
Abstract:
Section 9 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (47 U.S.C. 159), requires the Federal Communications Commission to recover the cost of its activities by assessing and collecting annual regulatory fees from beneficiaries of the activities.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/06/17
82 FR 26019
R&O
09/22/17
82 FR 44322
NPRM
06/14/18
83 FR 27846
NPRM Comment Period End
06/21/18
R&O
09/18/18
83 FR 47079
NPRM
06/05/19
84 FR 26234
NPRM Comment Period End
06/07/19
R&O
09/26/19
84 FR 50890
NPRM
05/08/20
85 FR 32256
R&O
06/22/20
85 FR 37364
NPRM
05/13/21
86 FR 26262
R&O
05/17/21
86 FR 26677
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Roland Helvajian, Office of the Managing Director, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0444,
Email: roland.helvajian@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK64
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau
Long-Term Actions
506. Wireless E911 Location Accuracy Requirements: PS Docket No. 07-114
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 332
Abstract:
This rulemaking is related to the proceedings in which the FCC previously acted to improve the quality of all emergency services. Wireless carriers must provide specific automatic location information in connection with 911 emergency calls to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). Wireless licensees must satisfy enhanced 911 location accuracy standards at either a county-based or a PSAP-based geographic level.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/20/07
72 FR 33948
R&O
02/14/08
73 FR 8617
Public Notice
09/25/08
73 FR 55473
FNPRM; NOI
11/02/10
75 FR 67321
Public Notice
11/18/09
74 FR 59539
2nd R&O
11/18/10
75 FR 70604
Second NPRM
08/04/11
76 FR 47114
Second NPRM Comment Period End
11/02/11
Final Rule
04/28/11
76 FR 23713
NPRM, 3rd R&O, and 2nd FNPRM
09/28/11
76 FR 59916
3rd FNPRM
03/28/14
79 FR 17820
Order Extending Comment Period
06/10/14
79 FR 33163
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End
07/14/14
Public Notice (Release Date)
11/20/14
Public Notice Comment Period End
12/17/14
4th R&O
03/04/15
80 FR 11806
Final Rule
08/03/15
80 FR 45897
Order Granting Waiver
07/10/17
NPRM
09/26/18
83 FR 54180
4th NPRM
03/18/19
84 FR 13211
5th R&O
01/16/20
85 FR 2660
5th NPRM
01/16/20
85 FR 2683
5th NPRM Comment Period End
03/16/20
6th R&O and Order on Recon
08/28/20
85 FR 53234
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Brenda Boykin, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2062,
Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AJ52
507. Improving Outage Reporting for Submarine Cables and Enhancing Submarine Cable Outage Data; GN Docket No. 15-206
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 34 to 39; 47 U.S.C. 301
Abstract:
This proceeding takes steps toward assuring the reliability and resiliency of submarine cables, a critical piece of the Nation's communications infrastructure, by proposing to require submarine cable licensees to report to the Commission when outages occur and communications are disrupted. The Commission's intent is to enhance national security and emergency preparedness by these actions. In December 2019, the Commission adopted an Order on Reconsideration that modifies the requirement for submarine cable licensees to report outages to the Commission.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM (Release Date)
09/18/15
R&O
06/24/16
81 FR 52354
Petitions for Recon
09/08/16
Petitions for Recon—Public Comment
10/17/16
81 FR 75368
Order on Recon
12/20/19
84 FR 15733
PRA Approval for new collection
03/25/21
Public Notice re effective date
04/28/21
Compliance Date for New Rules
10/28/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Scott Cinnamon, Attorney-Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2319,
Email: scott.cinnamon@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK39
508. Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications: PS Docket No. 15-80
Legal Authority:
Sec. 1, 4(i), 4(j), 4(o), 251(e)(3), 254, 301, 303(b), 303(g), 303(r), 307, 309(a), 309(j); 316, 332, 403, 615a-1, and 615c of Pub. L. 73-416, 4 Stat. 1064, as amended; and section 706 of Pub. L. 104-104, 110 Stat. 56; 47 U.S.C. 151, 154(i)-(j) & (o), 251(e)(3), 254, 301, 303(b), 303(g), 303(r), 307; 309(a), 309(j), 316, 332, 403, 615a-1, 615c, and 1302, unless otherwise noted
Abstract:
The 2004 Report and Order (R&O) extended the Commission's communication disruptions reporting rules to non-wireline carriers and streamlined reporting through a new electronic template (see docket ET Docket 04-35). In 2015, this proceeding, PS Docket 15-80, was opened to amend the original communications disruption
reporting rules from 2004 in order to reflect technology transitions observed throughout the telecommunications sector. The Commission seeks to further study the possibility to share the reporting database information and access with State and other Federal entities. In May 2016, the Commission released a Report and Order, FNPRM, and Order on Reconsideration (see also Dockets 11-82 and 04-35). The R&O adopted rules to update the part 4 requirements to reflect technology transitions. The FNPRM sought comment on sharing information in the reporting database. Comments and replies were received by the Commission in August and September 2016.
In March 2020, the Commission adopted a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in PS Docket No. 15-80 that proposed a framework to provide state and federal agencies with access to outage information to improve their situational awareness while preserving the confidentiality of this data, including proposals to: Provide direct, read-only access to NORS and DIRS filings to qualified agencies of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Tribal nations, territories, and federal government; allow these agencies to share NORS and DIRS information with other public safety officials that reasonably require NORS and DIRS information to prepare for and respond to disasters; allow participating agencies to publicly disclose NORS or DIRS filing information that is aggregated and anonymized across at least four service providers; condition a participating agency's direct access to NORS and DIRS filings on their agreement to treat the filings as confidential and not disclose them absent a finding by the Commission that allows them to do so; and establish an application process that would grant agencies access to NORS and DIRS after those agencies certify to certain requirements related to maintaining confidentiality of the data and the security of the databases. In March 2021, the Commission adopted the proposed information sharing framework with some modifications in a Second Report and Order. In April 2021, in a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposed to codify a rule adopted in 2016 that exempts satellite and terrestrial wireless providers from reporting outages that potentially affect special offices and facilities, as defined in Commission rules.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM, 2nd R&O, Order on Recon
06/16/15
80 FR 34321
NPRM Comment Period End
07/31/15
R&O
07/12/16
81 FR 45055
FNPRM, 1 Part 4 R&O, Order on Recon
08/11/16
81 FR 45059
Order Denying Reply Comment Deadline Extension Request
09/08/16
FNPRM Comment Period End
09/12/16
Announcement of Effective Date for Rule Changes in R&O
06/22/17
82 FR 28410
Announcement of Effective Date for Rule Changes in R&O
06/22/17
82 FR 28410
Second Further NPRM
02/28/20
85 FR 17818
Second Further NPRM Comment Period End
06/01/20
2nd R&O
04/29/21
86 FR 22796
3rd NPRM
06/30/21
86 FR 34679
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Robert Finley, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7835,
Email: robert.finley@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK40
509. New Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to Communications; ET Docket No. 04-35
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154 and 155; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract:
The proceeding creates a new part 4 in title 47 and amends part 63.100. The proceeding updates the Commission's communication disruptions reporting rules for wireline providers formerly in 47 CFR 63.100 and extends these rules to other non-wireline providers. Through this proceeding, the Commission streamlines the reporting process through an electronic template. The Report and Order received several petitions for reconsideration, of which two were eventually withdrawn. In 2015, seven were addressed in an Order on Reconsideration and in 2016 another petition was addressed in an Order on Reconsideration. One petition (CPUC Petition) remains pending regarding NORS database sharing with States, which is addressed in a separate proceeding, PS Docket 15-80. To the extent the communication disruption rules cover VoIP, the Commission studies and addresses these questions in a separate docket, PS Docket 11-82.
In May 2016, the Commission released a Report and Order, FNPRM, and Order on Reconsideration (see Dockets 11-82 and 15-80). The Order on Reconsideration addressed outage reporting for events at airports, and the FNPRM sought comment on database sharing. The Commission received comments and replies in August and September 2016.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
03/26/04
69 FR 15761
R&O
11/26/04
69 FR 68859
Denial for Petition for Partial Stay
12/02/04
Seek Comment on Petition for Recon
02/02/10
Reply Period End
03/19/10
Seek Comment on Broadband and Interconnected VOIP Service Providers
07/02/10
Reply Period End
08/16/12
2nd R&O, and Order on Recon, NPRM
06/16/15
80 FR 34321
R&O
07/12/16
81 FR 45055
FNPRM, 1 Part 4 R&O, Order on Recon
08/11/16
81 FR 45095, 81 FR 45055
Order Denying Extension of Time to File Reply Comments
09/08/16
Announcement of Effective Date for Rule Changes in R&O
06/22/17
82 FR 28410
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Robert Finley, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7835,
Email: robert.finley@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK41
510. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): PS Docket No. 15-91
Legal Authority:
Pub. L. 109-347, title VI; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i)
Abstract:
This proceeding was initiated to improve Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) messaging, ensure that WEA alerts reach only those individuals to whom they are relevant, and establish an end-to-end testing program based on advancements in technology.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
11/19/15
80 FR 77289
NPRM Comment Period End
01/13/16
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
02/12/16
Order
11/01/16
81 FR 75710
FNPRM
11/08/16
81 FR 78539
Comment Period End
12/08/16
Petition for Recon
12/19/16
81 FR 91899
Order on Recon
12/04/17
82 FR 57158
2nd R&O and 2nd Order on Recon
02/28/18
83 FR 8619
Public Notice
04/26/18
83 FR 18257
Public Notice Comment Period End
05/29/18
Public Notice Reply Comment Period End
06/11/18
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
James Wiley, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1678,
Email: james.wiley@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK54
511. Blue Alert EAS Event Code
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(o); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(r) and (v); 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 335; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C.544(g); 47 U.S.C. 606 and 615
Abstract:
In 2015, Congress adopted the Blue Alert Act to help the States provide effective alerts to the public and law enforcement when police and other law enforcement officers are killed or are in danger. To ensure that these State plans are compatible and integrated throughout the United States as envisioned by the Blue Alert Act, the Blue Alert Coordinator made a series of recommendations in a 2016 Report to Congress. Among these recommendations, the Blue Alert Coordinator identified the need for a dedicated EAS event code for Blue Alerts, and noted the alignment of the EAS with the implementation of the Blue Alert Act. On June 22, 2017, the FCC released an NPRM proposing to revise the EAS rules to adopt a new event code, which would allow transmission of Blue Alerts to the public over the EAS and thus satisfy the stated need for a dedicated EAS event code. On December 14, 2017, the Commission released an Order adopting a new Blue Alert EAS Code-BLU. EAS participants must be able to implement the BLU code by January 19, 2019. BLU alerts must be available to wireless emergency alerts by July, 2019.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/30/17
82 FR 29811
NPRM Comment Period End
07/31/17
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
08/29/17
Order
12/14/18
83 FR 2557
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Linda Pintro, Attorney Advisor, Policy and Licensing Division, PSHSB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7490,
Email: linda.pintro@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK63
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau
Long-Term Actions
512. 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)
Legal Authority:
15 U.S.C. 79; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract:
This action adopts new technical, operational, and registration requirements for signal boosters. It creates two classes of signal boosters—consumer and industrial—with distinct regulatory requirements for each, thereby establishing a two-step transition process for equipment certification for both consumer and industrial signal boosters sold and marketed in the United States.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
05/10/11
76 FR 26983
R&O
04/11/13
78 FR 21555
Petition for Reconsideration
06/06/13
78 FR 34015
Order on Reconsideration
11/08/14
79 FR 70790
FNPRM
11/28/14
79 FR 70837
2nd R&O and 2nd FNPRM
03/23/18
83 FR 17131
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Jaclyn Rosen, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0154,
Email: jaclyn.rosen@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AJ87
513. Promoting Technological Solutions To Combat Wireless Contraband Device Use in Correctional Facilities; GN Docket No. 13-111
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(a); 47 U.S.C. 303(b); 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 302(a)
Abstract:
In the 2017 Report and Order, 82 FR 22742, the Commission addressed the problem of illegal use of contraband wireless devices by inmates in correctional facilities by streamlining the process of deploying contraband wireless device interdiction systems (CIS)—systems that use radio communications signals requiring Commission authorization—in correctional facilities. In particular, the Commission eliminated certain filing requirements and provides for immediate approval of the lease applications needed to operate these systems. In the 2017 Further Notice, 82 FR 22780, the Commission sought comment on a process for wireless providers to disable contraband wireless devices once they have been identified. The Commission also sought comment on additional methods and technologies that might prove successful in combating contraband device use in correctional facilities, and on various other proposals related to the authorization process for CISs and their deployment.
In the Second Report and Order, the Commission takes further steps to facilitate the deployment and viability of technological solutions used to combat contraband wireless devices in correctional facilities. The Second Report and Order adopts a framework requiring the disabling of contraband wireless devices detected in correctional
facilities upon satisfaction of certain criteria, and the Commission addresses issues involving oversight, wireless provider liability, and treatment of 911 calls. The Second Report and Order further adopts rules requiring advance notice of certain wireless provider network changes to promote and maintain contraband interdiction system effectiveness. In the Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission takes further steps to facilitate the deployment and viability of technological solutions used to combat contraband wireless devices in correctional facilities. The Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks further comment on the relative effectiveness, viability, and cost of additional technological solutions to combat contraband phone use in correctional facilities previously identified in the record.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/18/13
78 FR 36469
NPRM Comment Period End
08/08/13
FNPRM
05/18/17
82 FR 22780
R&O
05/18/17
82 FR 22742
Final Rule Effective (Except for Rules Requiring OMB Approval)
06/19/17
FNPRM Comment Period End
07/17/17
Final Rule Effective for 47 CFR 1.9020(n), 1.9030(m), 1.9035 (o), and 20.23(a)
10/20/17
82 FR 48773
Final Rule Effective for 47 CFR 1.902(d)(8), 1.9035(d)(4), 20.18(a), and 20.18(r)
02/12/18
2nd FNPRM
08/13/21
86 FR 44681
2nd FNPRM
08/13/21
86 FR 44681
2nd R&O
08/13/21
86 FR 44635
2nd R&O
08/13/21
86 FR 44635
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End
09/13/21
Final Rules Effective (except for those requiring OMB approval)
09/13/21
Final Rules Effective (except for those requiring OMB approval)
09/13/21
Reply Comment Period End
10/12/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Melissa Conway, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Div., Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2887,
Email: melissa.conway@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK06
514. Promoting Investment in the 3550-3700 MHz Band; GN Docket No. 17-258
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j) ; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307(e); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract:
The Report and Order and Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) adopted by the Commission established a new Citizens Broadband Radio Service for shared wireless broadband use of the 3550 to 3700 MHz band. The Citizens Broadband Radio Service is governed by a three-tiered spectrum authorization framework to accommodate a variety of commercial uses on a shared basis with incumbent Federal and non-Federal users of the band. Access and operations will be managed by a dynamic spectrum access system. The three tiers are: Incumbent Access, Priority Access, and General Authorized Access. Rules governing the Citizens Broadband Radio Service are found in part 96 of the Commission's rules.
The Order on Reconsideration and Second Report and Order addressed several Petitions for Reconsideration submitted in response to the Report and Order and resolved the outstanding issues raised in the Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.
The 2017 NPRM sought comment on limited changes to the rules governing Priority Access Licenses in the band, adjacent channel emissions limits, and public release of base station registration information.
The 2018 Report and Order addressed the issues raised in the 2017 NPRM and implemented changes rules governing Priority Access Licenses in the band and public release of base station registration information.
On July 2020, the Commission commenced an auction of Priority Access Licenses in the band. “Winning bidders were announced on September 2, 2020”.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/08/13
78 FR 1188
NPRM Comment Period End
03/19/13
FNPRM
06/02/14
79 FR 31247
FNPRM Comment Period End
08/15/14
R&O and 2nd FNPRM
06/15/15
80 FR 34119
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End
08/14/15
Order on Recon and 2nd R&O
07/26/16
81 FR 49023
NPRM
11/28/17
82 FR 56193
NPRM Comment Period End
01/29/18
R&O
12/07/18
83 FR 6306
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Paul Powell, Assistant Chief, Mobility Division, WTB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1613,
Email: paul.powell@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK12
515. Use of Spectrum Bands Above 24 GHz for Mobile Services—Spectrum Frontiers: WT Docket 10-112
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 to 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 302; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309 and 310; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 1302
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission adopted service rules for licensing of mobile and other uses for millimeter wave (mmW) bands. These high frequencies previously have been best suited for satellite or fixed microwave applications; however, recent technological breakthroughs have newly enabled advanced mobile services in these bands, notably including very high speed and low latency services. This action will help facilitate Fifth Generation mobile services and other mobile services. In developing service rules for mmW bands, the Commission will facilitate access to spectrum, develop a flexible spectrum policy, and encourage wireless innovation.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/13/16
81 FR 1802
NPRM Comment Period End
02/26/16
FNPRM
08/24/16
81 FR 58269
Comment Period End
09/30/16
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
10/31/16
R&O
11/14/16
81 FR 79894
R&O
01/02/18
83 FR 37
FNPRM
01/02/18
83 FR 85
FNPRM Comment Period End
01/23/18
R&O
07/20/18
83 FR 34478
FNPRM
07/20/18
83 FR 34520
FNPRM Comment Period End
09/28/18
R&O
02/05/19
84 FR 1618
R&O
05/01/19
84 FR 18405
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
John Schauble, Deputy Chief, Broadband Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0797,
Email: john.schauble@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK44
516. Transforming the 2.5 GHz Band, WT Docket No. 18-120
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 to 153; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 302; 47 U.S.C. 304; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 1302
Abstract:
The 2.5 GHz band (2496-2690 MHz) constitutes the single largest band of contiguous spectrum below 3 GHz and has been identified as prime spectrum for next generation mobile operations, including 5G uses. Significant portions of this band, however, currently lie fallow across approximately one-half of the United States, primarily in rural areas. Moreover, access to the Educational Broadband Service (EBS) has been strictly limited since 1995, and current licensees are subject to a regulatory regime largely unchanged from the days when educational TV was the only use envisioned for this spectrum. The Commission proposes to allow more efficient and effective use of this spectrum band by providing greater flexibility to current EBS licensees as well as providing new opportunities for additional entities to obtain unused 2.5 GHz spectrum to facilitate improved access to next generation wireless broadband, including 5G. The Commission also seeks comment on additional approaches for transforming the 2.5 GHz band, including by moving directly to an auction for some or all of the spectrum.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
06/07/18
83 FR 26396
NPRM Comment Period Extended
06/21/18
83 FR 31515
NPRM Comment Period End
09/07/18
Final Rule
10/25/19
84 FR 57343
Dismissal of Petitions for Reconsideration
02/23/21
86 FR 10839
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
John Schauble, Deputy Chief, Broadband Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-0797,
Email: john.schauble@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK75
517. Expanding Flexible Use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band: GN Docket No. 18-122
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C.151 to 153; 47 U.S.C.154(i); 47 U.S.C 157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 301 to 304; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 1302; . . .
Abstract:
In the 2020 Report and Order, the Commission adopted rules to make 280 megahertz of mid-band spectrum available for flexible use (plus a 20-megahertz guard band) throughout the contiguous United States. Pursuant to the Report and Order, existing fixed satellite service (FSS) and fixed services (FS) must relocate operations out of the lower portion of the 3.7-4.0 GHz band. The Commission will issue flexible use licenses in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band in the contiguous United States via a system of competitive bidding. The Commission established rules to govern the transition including optional payments for satellite operators that choose to relocate on an accelerated schedule and provide reimbursement to FSS operators and their associated earth stations for reasonable expenses incurred to facilitate the transition. The Report and Order also established service and technical rules for the new flexible use licenses that will be issued in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band. “On December 8, 2020, the Commission began an auction of licenses in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band. the winning bidders were announced on February 24, 2021”.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
08/29/18
83 FR 44128
NPRM Comment Period End
11/27/18
Public Notice
05/20/19
84 FR 22733
Certifications and Data Filing Deadline
05/28/19
Public Notice
06/03/19
84 FR 22514
Public Notice Comment Period End
07/03/19
Public Notice Reply Comment Period End
07/18/19
R&O
04/23/20
85 FR 22804
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Paul Powell, Assistant Chief, Mobility Division, WTB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1613,
Email: paul.powell@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK76
518. Amendment of the Commission's Rules To Promote Aviation Safety: WT Docket No. 19-140
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 303; 307(e)
Abstract:
The Federal Communications Commission regulates the Aviation Radio Service, a family of services using dedicated spectrum to enhance the safety of aircraft in flight, facilitate the efficient movement of aircraft both in the air and on the ground, and otherwise ensure the reliability and effectiveness of aviation communications. Recent technological advances have prompted the Commission to open this new rulemaking proceeding to ensure the timely deployment and use of today's state-of-the-art safety-enhancing technologies. With this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposes changes to its part 87 Aviation Radio Service rules to support the deployment of more advanced avionics technology, increase the efficient use of limited spectrum resources, and generally improve aviation safety.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
07/02/19
84 FR 31542
NPRM Comment Period End
09/03/19
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
09/30/19
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Jeff Tobias, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1617,
Email: jeff.tobias@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK92
519. • Implementation of State and Local Governments' Obligation To Approve Certain Wireless Facility Modification Requests Under Section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012 (WT Docket No. 19-250)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. chs. 2, 5, 9, 13; 28 U.S.C. 2461, unless otherwise noted
Abstract:
In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to reduce regulatory barriers to wireless infrastructure deployment by further streamlining the state and local government review process for modifications to existing wireless infrastructure under section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
07/02/20
85 FR 39859
Declaratory Ruling
07/27/20
85 FR 45126
NPRM Comment Period End
08/03/20
R&O
12/03/20
85 FR 78005
Petition for Recon
03/03/21
86 FR 12898
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Georgios Leris, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1994,
Email: georgios.leris@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AL29
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau
Completed Actions
520. 800 MHz Cellular Telecommunications Licensing Reform; Docket No. 12-40
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) to 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 301 to 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 332
Abstract:
The proceeding was launched to revisit and update rules governing the 800 MHz Cellular Radiotelephone Service (Cellular Service). On November 10, 2014, the FCC released a Report and Order (R&O) and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM). In the R&O, the FCC eliminated or streamlined numerous regulatory requirements; in the FNPRM, the FCC sought comment on additional reforms of the Cellular rules, including radiated power and other technical rules, to promote flexibility and help foster deployment of new technologies such as LTE. On March 24, 2017, the FCC released a Second Report and Order (2d R&O) and Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (2d FNPRM). In the 2d R&O, the FCC revised the Cellular radiated power rules to permit compliance with limits based on power spectral density as an option for licensees deploying wideband technologies such as LTE, made conforming revisions to related technical rules, and adopted additional licensing reforms. In the 2d FNPRM, the FCC sought comment on other measures to give Cellular and other part 22 commercial mobile radio service licensees more flexibility and administrative relief, and on ways to consolidate and simplify the rules for the Cellular Service and other geographically licensed wireless services. On July 13, 2018, the FCC released a Third Report and Order (3d R&O) in which it deleted certain part 22 rules that imposed needless recordkeeping and reporting obligations; it also deleted certain Cellular Service-specific and Part 22 rules that are duplicative of other rules and are thus no longer necessary. These revisions reduce regulatory burdens for Cellular and other Part 22 licensees and provide them with enhanced flexibility, thereby freeing up more resources for investment in new technologies and greater spectrum efficiency to meet increasing consumer demand for advanced wireless services. On March 22, 2019, the FCC released an Order on Reconsideration addressing a petition for reconsideration of a rule deletion in the 3d R&O. The FCC denied the petition, thus affirming its decision in the 3d R&O.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
03/16/12
77 FR 15665
NPRM Comment Period End
05/15/12
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
06/14/12
R&O
12/05/14
79 FR 72143
FNPRM
12/22/14
79FR 76268
Final Rule Effective (With 3 Exceptions)
01/05/15
FNPRM Comment Period End
01/21/15
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
02/20/15
2nd R&O
04/12/17
82 FR 17570
2nd FNPRM
04/14/17
82 FR 17959
Final Rule Effective (With 9 Exceptions)
05/12/17
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End
05/15/17
2nd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
06/14/17
3rd R&O
08/02/18
83 FR 37760
Final Rule Effective (With 1 Exception)
09/04/18
Order on Reconsideration
04/09/19
84 FR 14080
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Nina Shafran, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Mobility Div., Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2781,
Email: nina.shafran@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK13
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Wireline Competition Bureau
Long-Term Actions
521. Local Telephone Networks That LECS Must Make Available to Competitors
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract:
The Commission adopted rules applicable to incumbent local exchange carriers (LECs) to permit competitive carriers to access portions of the incumbent LECs' networks on an unbundled basis. Unbundling allows competitors to lease portions of the incumbent LECs' network to provide telecommunications services. These rules, adopted in dockets CC 96-98, WC 01-338, and WC 04-313, are intended to accelerate the development of local exchange competition.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
Second FNPRM
04/26/99
64 FR 20238
Fourth FNPRM
01/14/00
65 FR 2367
Errata Third R&O and Fourth FNPRM
01/18/00
65 FR 2542
Second Errata Third R&O and Fourth FNPRM
01/18/00
65 FR 2542
Supplemental Order
01/18/00
65 FR 2542
Third R&O
01/18/00
65 FR 2542
Correction
04/11/00
65 FR 19334
Supplemental Order Clarification
06/20/00
65 FR 38214
Public Notice
02/01/01
66 FR 8555
Public Notice
03/05/01
66 FR 18279
Public Notice
04/10/01
Public Notice
04/23/01
Public Notice
05/14/01
NPRM
01/15/02
67 FR 1947
Public Notice
05/29/02
Public Notice
08/01/02
Public Notice
08/13/02
NPRM
08/21/03
68 FR 52276
R&O and Order on Remand
08/21/03
68 FR 52276
Errata
09/17/03
Report
10/09/03
68 FR 60391
Order
10/28/03
Order
01/09/04
Public Notice
01/09/04
Public Notice
02/18/04
Order
07/08/04
Second R&O
07/08/04
69 FR 43762
Order on Recon
08/09/04
69 FR 54589
Interim Order
08/20/04
69 FR 55111
NPRM
08/20/04
69 FR 55128
Public Notice
09/10/04
Public Notice
09/13/04
Public Notice
10/20/04
Order on Recon
12/29/04
69 FR 77950
Order on Remand
02/04/04
Public Notice
04/25/05
70 FR 29313
Public Notice
05/25/05
70 FR 34765
Declaratory Ruling
05/26/11
NPRM
01/06/20
85 FR 472
NPRM Comment Period End
03/06/20
Report & Order
01/08/21
86 FR 1636
Next Action Undetermined
To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Edward Krachmer, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1525,
Email: edward.krachmer@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AH44
522. Jurisdictional Separations
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 205; 47 U.S.C. 221(c); 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 410
Abstract:
Jurisdictional separations is the process, pursuant to part 36 of the Commission's rules, by which incumbent local exchange carriers apportion regulated costs between the intrastate and interstate jurisdictions. In 1997, the Commission initiated a proceeding seeking comment on the extent to which legislative changes, technological changes, and marketplace changes warrant comprehensive reform of the separations process. In 2001, the Commission adopted the Federal-State Joint Board on Jurisdictional Separations' Joint Board's recommendation to impose an interim freeze on the part 36 category relationships and jurisdictional cost allocation factors for a period of 5 years, pending comprehensive reform of the part 36 separations rules. In 2006, the Commission issued an Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that extended the separations freeze for a period of 3 years and sought comment on comprehensive reform. In 2009, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the separations freeze an additional year to June 2010. In 2010, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the separations freeze for an additional year to June 2011. In 2011, the Commission adopted a Report and Order extending the separations freeze for an additional year to June 2012. In 2012, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the separations freeze for an additional 2 years to June 2014. In 2014, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the separations freeze for an additional 3 years to June 2017.
In 2016, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the separations freeze for an additional 18 months until January 1, 2018. In 2017, the Joint Board issued a Recommended Decision recommending changes to the part 36 rules designed to harmonize them with the Commission's previous amendments to its part 32 accounting rules. In February 2018, the Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing amendments to part 36 consistent with the Joint Board's recommendations. In October 2018, the Commission issued a Report and Order adopting each of the Joint Board's recommendations and amending the Part 36 consistent with those recommendations. In July 2018, the Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to extend the separations freeze for an additional 15 years and to provide rate-of-return carriers that had elected to freeze their category relationships a time limited opportunity to opt out of that freeze. In December 2018, the Commission issued a Report and Order extending the freeze for up to 6 years until December 31, 2024, and granting rate-of-return carriers that had elected to freeze their category relationships a one-time opportunity to opt out of that freeze.
On March 31, 2020, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit affirmed the Commission's December 2018 Report and Order.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
11/05/97
62 FR 59842
NPRM Comment Period End
12/10/97
Order
06/21/01
66 FR 33202
Order and FNPRM
05/26/06
71 FR 29882
Order and FNPRM Comment Period End
08/22/06
R&O
05/15/09
74 FR 23955
R&O
05/25/10
75 FR 30301
R&O
05/27/11
76 FR 30840
R&O
05/23/12
77 FR 30410
R&O
06/13/14
79 FR 36232
R&O
06/02/17
82 FR 25535
Recommended Decision
10/27/17
NPRM
03/13/18
83 FR 10817
NPRM Comment Period End
04/27/18
NPRM
07/27/18
83 FR 35589
NPRM Comment Period End
09/10/18
R&O
12/11/18
83 FR 63581
R&O
02/15/19
84 FR 4351
Announcement of OMB Approval
03/01/19
84 FR 6977
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
William A. Kehoe III, Senior Counsel, Policy & Program Planning Division, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1580,
Email: william.kehoe@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AJ06
523. Rural Call Completion; WC Docket No. 13-39
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 217; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 202; 47 U.S.C. 218; 47 U.S.C. 220; 47 U.S.C. 262; 47 U.S.C. 403(b)(2)(B); 47 U.S.C. 251(a); 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 620; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 251(e); 47 U.S.C. 254(k); 47 U.S.C. 616; 47 U.S.C. 226; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 228; 47 U.S.C. 1401-1473
Abstract:
The Third RCC Order began implementation of the Improving Rural Call Quality and Reliability Act of 2017 (RCC Act), by adopting rules designed to ensure the integrity of our nation's telephone network and prevent unjust or unreasonable discrimination among areas of the United States in the delivery of telephone service. In particular, the Third RCC Order adopted rules to establish a registry for intermediate providers entities that transmit, but do not originate or terminate, voice calls.
The Order requires intermediate providers to register with the Commission before offering to transmit covered voice communications, and requires covered providers entities that select the initial long-distance route for a large number of lines to use only registered intermediate providers to transmit covered voice communications.
The Fourth RCC Order completed the Commission's implementation of the RCC Act by adopting service quality standards for intermediate providers, as well as an exception to those standards for intermediate providers that qualify for the covered provider safe harbor in our existing rules. The Order also set forth procedures to enforce our intermediate provider requirements. Finally, the Fourth RCC Order adopted provisions to sunset the rural call completion data recording and retention requirements adopted in the First RCC Order one year after the effective date of the new intermediate provider service quality standards.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
04/12/13
78 FR 21891
Public Notice
05/07/13
78 FR 26572
NPRM Comment Period End
05/28/13
R&O and FNPRM
12/17/13
78 FR 76218
PRA 60 Day Notice
12/30/13
78 FR 79448
FNPRM Comment Period End
02/18/14
PRA Comments Due
03/11/14
Public Notice
05/06/14
79 FR 25682
Order on Reconsideration
12/10/14
79 FR 73227
Erratum
01/08/15
80 FR 1007
Public Notice
03/04/15
80 FR 11593
2nd FNPRM
07/27/17
82 FR 34911
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End
08/28/17
Reply Comment Period End
09/25/17
2nd Order
05/10/18
83 FR 21723
3rd FNPRM
05/11/18
83 FR 21983
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End
06/04/18
3rd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
06/19/18
3rd Order
08/13/18
83 FR 47296
4th Order
03/15/19
84 FR 25692
PRA 60 Day Notice
05/22/18
83 FR 23681
PRA 60 Day Notice
09/18/18
83 FR 47153
Public Notice
10/24/18
83 FR 53588
Public Notice
04/15/19
84 FR 15124
PRA 60 Day Notice
05/17/21
86 FR 26722
PRA Comment Period End
07/16/21
PRA 60 Day Notice
08/24/21
86 FR 47307
PRA Comment Period End
10/25/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Connor Ferraro, Attorney Advisor, Competition Policy Division, WCB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1322,
Email: connor.ferraro@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AJ89
524. Rates for Inmate Calling Services; WC Docket No. 12-375
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j); 47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 218; 47 U.S.C. 220; 47 U.S.C. 276; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 CFR 64
Abstract:
In the Second Report and Order, the Federal Communications Commission adopted rule changes to ensure that rates for both interstate and intrastate inmate calling services (ICS) are fair, just, and reasonable limits on ancillary service charges imposed by ICS providers. In the Second Report and Order, the Commission set caps on all interstate and intrastate calling rates for ICS, established a tiered rate structure based on the size and type of facility being served, limited the types of ancillary services that ICS providers may charge for and capped the charges for permitted fees, banned flat-rate calling, facilitated access to ICS by people with disabilities by requiring providers to offer free or steeply discounted rates for calls using TTY, and imposed reporting and certification requirements to facilitate continued oversight of the ICS market. In the Third Further Notice portion of the item, the Commission sought comment on ways to promote competition for ICS, video visitation, and rates for international calls, and considered an array of solutions to further address areas of concern in the ICS industry. In an Order on Reconsideration, the Commission amended its rate caps and the definition of “mandatory tax or mandatory fee.”
On June 13, 2017, the D.C. Circuit vacated the rate caps adopted in the Second Report and Order, as well as reporting requirements related to video visitation. The court held that the Commission lacked jurisdiction over intrastate ICS calls and that the rate caps the Commission adopted for interstate calls were arbitrary and capricious. The court also remanded the Commission's caps on ancillary fees. On September 26, 2017, the court denied a petition for rehearing en banc. On December 21, 2017, the court issued two separate orders: One vacating the 2016 Order on Reconsideration insofar as it purports to set rate caps on inmate calling services, and one dismissing as moot challenges to the Commission's First Report and Order on ICS.
On February 4, 2020, the Commission's Wireline Competition Bureau released a Public Notice seeking to refresh the record on ancillary service charges imposed in connection with inmate calling services.
On August 6, 2020, the Commission adopted a Report and Order on Remand and a Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking responding to remands by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit and proposing to comprehensively reform rates and charges for the inmate calling services within the Commission's jurisdiction. The Report and Order on Remand found that the Commission's five permitted ancillary service charges (1) automated payment fees; (2) fees for single-call and related services; (3) live agent fees; (4) paper bill/statement fees; and (5) third-party financial transaction fees generally, cannot be practically segregated between interstate and intrastate inmate telephone calls, except in a limited number of cases. Accordingly, the Commission prohibited inmate calling services providers from imposing ancillary service fees higher than the Commission's caps,or imposing fees for additional ancillary services unless imposed in connection with purely intrastate inmate telephone service calls. The Order also reinstated a rule prohibiting providers from marking up third-party fees for single-call services; reinstated rule language that prohibits providers from marking up mandatory taxes or fees that they pass on to inmate telephone service consumers; and amended certain of the inmate calling services rules consistent with the D.C. Circuit's mandates to reflect that the Commission's rate and fee caps on inmate calling service apply only to interstate and international inmate calling. The Fourth FNPRM proposes to substantially reduce the interstate rate cap for inmate telephone calls from the current interim rate caps of $0.21 per minute for debit or prepaid calls and $0.25 per minute for collect calls for all types of correctional facilities, to permanent rate caps of $0.14 per minute for all interstate calls from prisons and $0.16 for all interstate calls from jails. The Fourth FNPRM also proposes to adopt rate caps for international inmate
calling services calls for the first time based on the proposed interstate rate caps, plus the amount that the provider must pay its underlying international service provider for an international call. It also proposes a waiver process for providers that believe the Commission's rate caps would not allow them to recover their costs of serving a particular facility or contract. Finally, it seeks comment on a further mandatory data collection to continue efforts to reform these rates and fees.
On November 23, 2020, Global Tel*Link Corporation filed a petition for reconsideration of the August 6, 2020 Order on Remand. On December 3, 2020, the Commission established the opposition and reply comment dates for the petition.
On May 24, 2021 the Commission released the Third Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration and Fifth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. In the Third Report and Order, the Commission: (1) Substantially reduced the interim rate caps for interstate inmate calling services from prisons and larger jails (those with 1,000 or more incarcerated people) from $0.21 per minute for debit and prepaid calls and $0.25 per minute for collect calls to new uniform interim interstate caps of $0.12 per minute for prisons and $0.14 per minute for larger jails; (2) maintained the current interim interstate rate cap of $0.21 for jails with less than 1,000 incarcerated people because of insufficient record evidence to determine providers' costs of serving those facilities at this time; (3) eliminated separate treatment of collect calls, resulting in a uniform interim interstate rate cap for all types of calls at each facility, as proposed; (4) reformed the treatment of site commission payments by specifying that providers may pass through to consumers (without any markup) site commission payments that are mandated by federal, state, or local law and that providers may pass through to consumers no more than $ 0.02 per minute site commission payments resulting from contractual obligations negotiated between providers and correctional officials; (5) capped, for the first time, international calling rates at all facilities at the applicable facility's total interstate rate cap, plus the amount the inmate calling services provider pays to its underlying wholesale carriers for completing international calls; (6) reformed the ancillary service charge caps for third-party financial transaction fees, including those related to calls that are billed on a per-call basis; and (7) adopted a new mandatory data collection to obtain more uniform cost data based on consistent, prescribed allocation methodologies to determine fair, permanent cost-based rates for facilities of all sizes.
In the Order on Reconsideration, the Commission denied GTL's petition seeking reconsideration of a single sentence from the 2020 Remand Order, in which the Commission reminded providers that the jurisdictional nature of a call, that is whether it is interstate or intrastate, depends on the physical location of the endpoints of the call and not on whether the area code or NXX prefix of the telephone number associated with the account are associated with a particular state. The Commission determined that the end-to-end analysis has been, and remains, the generally applicable test for all telecommunications carriers in determining the jurisdiction of their calls and the Commission continues to use the traditional end-to-end jurisdictional analysis in setting rates for calls placed by inmate calling services consumers.
In the Fifth Further Notice, the Commission proposed to amend the Commission's rules to require calling service providers to provide access to all forms of Telecommunications Relay Services, including internet-based services, to facilitate greater accessibility for incarcerated people with hearing and speech disabilities. The Commission also sought comment on: (1) The methodology the Commission should use to set permanent per-minute rate caps for interstate and international inmate calling services; (2) site commission costs for facilities of all sizes and site commission reform generally; (3) the costs of providing services to jails with average daily populations of fewer than 1,000 incarcerated people; (4) whether and how the Commission should reform the ancillary service charge caps and how the Commission can curtail potentially abusive practices related to these charges; (5) whether to institute a recurring periodic data collection; and (6) whether some providers have market power in the bidding process, thereby impacting the competitiveness of the bidding process.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/22/13
78 FR 4369
FNPRM
11/13/13
78 FR 68005
R&O
11/13/13
78 FR 67956
FNPRM Comment Period End
12/20/13
Announcement of Effective Date
06/20/14
79 FR 33709
2nd FNPRM
11/21/14
79 FR 69682
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End
01/15/15
2nd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
01/20/15
3rd FNPRM
12/18/15
80 FR 79020
2nd R&O
12/18/15
80 FR 79136
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End
01/19/16
3rd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
02/08/16
Order on Reconsideration
09/12/16
81 FR 62818
Announcement of OMB Approval
03/01/17
82 FR 12182
Correction to Announcement of OMB Approval
03/08/17
82 FR 12922
Announcement of OMB Approval
02/06/20
85 FR 6947
Public Notice
02/19/20
85 FR 9444
Public Notice Comment Period End
03/20/20
Public Notice Reply Comment Period End
04/06/20
Letter
07/15/20
R&O on Remand & 4th FNPRM
08/06/20
85 FR 67450; 85 FR 67480; 85 FR 73233
Order
09/01/20
Public Notice
09/24/20
85 FR 66512
Public Notice
10/23/20
Letter
11/13/20
Public Notice
12/03/20
85 FR 83000
Order
12/17/20
Public Notice
01/08/21
Public Notice
03/03/21
Inactive per Maura McGowan
03/31/21
5th FNPRM
07/28/21
86 FR 40416
3rd R&O
07/28/21
86 FR 40340
Order
08/10/21
86 FR 48952
5th NPRM Comment Period End
09/27/21
5th NPRM Reply Comment Period End
10/27/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
William A. Kehoe III, Senior Counsel, Policy & Program Planning Division, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1580,
Email: william.kehoe@fcc.gov.
Irina Asoskov, Assistant Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 445 12th Street SW,
Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7122,
Fax:
202 418-1413,
Email: irina.asoskov@fcc.gov.
RIN:
3060-AK08
525. Comprehensive Review of the Part 32 Uniform System of Accounts (WC Docket No. 14-130)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 219 and 220
Abstract:
The Commission initiates a rulemaking proceeding to review the Uniform System of Accounts (USOA) to consider ways to minimize the compliance burdens on incumbent local exchange carriers while ensuring that the Agency retains access to the information it needs to fulfill its regulatory duties. In light of the Commission's actions in areas of price cap regulation, universal service reform, and intercarrier compensation reform, the Commission stated that it is likely appropriate to streamline the existing rules even though those reforms may not have eliminated the need for accounting data for some purposes. The Commission's analysis and proposals are divided into three parts. First, the Commission proposes to streamline the USOA accounting rules while preserving their existing structure. Second, the Commission seeks more focused comment on the accounting requirements needed for price cap carriers to address our statutory and regulatory obligations. Third, the Commission seeks comment on several related issues, including state requirements, rate effects, implementation, continuing property records, and legal authority.
On February 23, 2017, the Commission adopted a Report and Order that revised the part 32 USOA to substantially reduce accounting burdens for both price cap and rate-of-return carriers. First, the Order streamlines the USOA for all carriers. In addition, the USOA will be aligned more closely with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP. Second, the Order allows price cap carriers to use GAAP for all regulatory accounting purposes as long as they comply with targeted accounting rules, which are designed to mitigate any impact on pole attachment rates. Alternatively, price cap carriers can elect to use GAAP accounting for all purposes other than those associated with pole attachment rates and continue to use the part 32 accounts for pole attachment rates for up to 12 years. Third, the Order addresses several miscellaneous issues, including referral to the Federal-State Joint Board on Separations the issue of examining jurisdictional separations rules in light of the reforms adopted to part 32.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
09/15/14
79 FR 54942
NPRM Comment Period End
11/14/14
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
12/15/14
R&O
04/04/17
82 FR 20833
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Robin Cohn, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-2747,
Email: robin.cohn@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK20
526. Restoring Internet Freedom (WC Docket No. 17-108); Protecting and Promoting the Open Internet (GN Docket No. 14-28)
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j); 47 U.S.C. 201(b)
Abstract:
In December 2017, the Commission adopted the Restoring internet Freedom Declaratory Ruling, Report and Order, and Order (Restoring internet Freedom Order), which reclassified broadband internet access service as an information service; reinstates the determination that mobile broadband internet access service is not a commercial mobile service and as a private mobile service; finds that transparency, internet Service Providers (ISPs) economic incentives, and antitrust and consumer protection laws will protect the openness of the internet, and that title II regulation is unnecessary to do so; and adopts a transparency rule similar to that in the 2010 Open internet Order, requiring disclosure of network management practices, performance characteristics, and commercial terms of service. Additionally, the transparency rule requires ISPs to disclose any blocking, throttling, paid prioritization, or affiliate prioritization, and eliminates the internet conduct standard and the bright-line conduct rules set forth in the 2015 Open internet Order.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
07/01/14
79 FR 37448
NPRM Comment Period End
07/18/14
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
09/15/14
R&O on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, and Order
04/13/15
80 FR 19737
NPRM
06/02/17
82 FR 25568
NPRM Comment Period End
07/03/17
Declaratory Ruling, R&O, and Order
02/22/18
83 FR 7852
Order on Remand
01/07/21
86 FR 994
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Melissa Kirkel, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-7958,
Fax:
202 418-1413,
Email: melissa.kirkel@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK21
527. Technology Transitions; GN Docket No 13-5, WC Docket No. 05-25; Accelerating Wireline Broadband Deployment by Removing Barriers to Infrastructure Investment; WC Docket No. 17-84
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract:
On April 20, 2017, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, Notice of Inquiry, and Request for Comment (Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOl, and RFC) seeking input on a number of actions designed to accelerate: (1) The deployment of next-generation networks and services by removing barriers to infrastructure investment at the Federal, State, and local level; (2) the transition from legacy copper networks and services to next-generation fiber-based networks and services; and (3) the reduction of Commission regulations that raise costs and slow, rather than facilitate, broadband deployment.
On November 16, 2017, the Commission adopted a Report and Order (R&O), Declaratory Ruling, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Wireline Infrastructure Order) that takes a number of actions and seeks comment on further actions designed to accelerate the deployment of next-generation networks and services through removing barriers to infrastructure investment.
The Wireline Infrastructure Order took a number of actions. First, the Report and Order revised the pole attachment rules to reduce costs for attachers, reforms the pole access complaint procedures to settle access disputes more swiftly, and increases access to infrastructure for certain types
of broadband providers. Second, the Report and Order revised the section 214(a) discontinuance rules and the network change notification rules, including those applicable to copper retirements, to expedite the process for carriers seeking to replace legacy network infrastructure and legacy services with advanced broadband networks and innovative new services. Third, the Report and Order reversed a 2015 ruling that discontinuance authority is required for solely wholesale services to carrier-customers. Fourth, the Declaratory Ruling abandoned the 2014 “functional test” interpretation of when section 214 discontinuance applications are required, bringing added clarity to the section 214(a) discontinuance process for carriers and consumers alike. Finally, the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking sought comment on additional potential pole attachment reforms, reforms to the network change disclosure and section 214(a) discontinuance processes, and ways to facilitate rebuilding networks impacted by natural disasters. Various parties filed a Petition for Review of the Wireline Infrastructure Order in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The Ninth Circuit denied the Petition on January 23, 2020 on the grounds that the parties lacked standing.
On June 7, 2018, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order (Wireline Infrastructure Second Report and Order) taking further actions designed to expedite the transition from legacy networks and services to next generation networks and advanced services that benefit the American public and to promote broadband deployment by further streamlining the section 214(a) discontinuance rules, network change disclosure processes, and part 68 customer notification process.
The Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOI, and RFC sought comment on additional issues not addressed in the November Wireline Infrastructure Order or the June Wireline Infrastructure Second Report and Order. It sought comment on changes to the Commission's pole attachment rules to: (1) Streamline the timeframe for gaining access to utility poles; (2) reduce charges paid by attachers for work done to make a pole ready for new attachments; and (3) establish a formula for computing the maximum pole attachment rate that may be imposed on an incumbent LEC.
The Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOI, and RFC also sought comment on whether the Commission should enact rules, consistent with its authority under section 253 of the Act, to promote the deployment of broadband infrastructure by preempting State and local laws that inhibit broadband deployment. It also sought comment on whether there are State laws governing the maintenance or retirement of copper facilities that serve as a barrier to deploying next-generation technologies and services that the Commission might seek to preempt.
Previously, in November 2014, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Declaratory Ruling that: (1) Proposed new backup power rules; (2) proposed new or revised rules for copper retirements and service discontinuances; and (3) adopted a functional test in determining what constitutes a service for purposes of section 214(a) discontinuance review. In August 2015, the Commission adopted a Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that: (i) Lengthened and revised the copper retirement process; (ii) determined that a carrier must obtain Commission approval before discontinuing a service used as a wholesale input if the carrier's actions will discontinue service to a carrier-customer's retail end users; (iii) adopted an interim rule requiring incumbent LECs that seek to discontinue certain TDM-based wholesale services to commit to certain rates, terms, and conditions; (iv) proposed further revisions to the copper retirement discontinuance process; and (v) upheld the November 2014 Declaratory Ruling. In July 2016, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order, Declaratory Ruling, and Order on Reconsideration that: (i) Adopted a new test for obtaining streamlined treatment when carriers seek Commission authorization to discontinue legacy services in favor of services based on newer technologies; (ii) set forth consumer education requirements for carriers seeking to discontinue legacy services in favor of services based on newer technologies; (iii) allowed notice to customers of discontinuance applications by email; (iv) required carriers to provide notice of discontinuance applications to Tribal entities; (v) made a technical rule change to create a new title for copper retirement notices and certifications; and (vi) harmonized the timeline for competitive LEC discontinuances caused by incumbent LEC network changes.
On August 2, 2018, the Commission adopted a Third Report and Order and Declaratory Ruling (Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order) establishing a new framework for the vast majority of pole attachments governed by Federal law by instituting a one-touch make-ready regime, in which a new attacher may elect to perform all simple work to prepare a pole for new wireline attachments in the communications space. This new framework includes safeguards to promote coordination among parties and ensures that new attachers perform work safely and reliably. The Commission retained its multi-party pole attachment process for attachments that are complex or above the communications space of a pole, but made significant modifications to speed deployment, promote accurate billing, expand the use of self-help for new attachers when attachment deadlines are missed, and reduce the likelihood of coordination failures that lead to unwarranted delays. The Commission also improved its pole attachment rules by codifying and redefining Commission precedent that requires utilities to allow attachers to overlash existing wires, thus maximizing the usable space on the pole; eliminating outdated disparities between the pole attachment rates that incumbent carriers must pay compared to other similarly-situated cable and telecommunications attachers; and clarifying that the Commission will preempt, on an expedited case-by-case basis, State and local laws that inhibit the rebuilding or restoration of broadband infrastructure after a disaster. The Commission also adopted a Declaratory Ruling that interpreted section 253(a) of the Communications Act to prohibit State and local express and
de facto
moratoria on the deployment of telecommunications services or facilities and directed the Wireline Competition and Wireless Telecommunications Bureaus to act promptly on petitions challenging specific alleged moratoria. Numerous parties filed appeals of the Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order, and the appeals were consolidated in the U.S. Court of Appeals of the Ninth Circuit. On August 12, 2020, the Ninth Circuit issued an opinion upholding the Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order in all respects.
On August 8, 2018, Public Knowledge filed a Petition for Reconsideration of the Second Report and Order and Motion to Hold in Abeyance. On October 20, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) adopted a Declaratory Ruling, Order on Reconsideration, and Order. In the Declaratory Ruling, the Bureau clarified that any carrier seeking to discontinue legacy voice service to a community or
part of a community that is the last retail provider of such legacy TDM service to that community or part of the community is subject to the Commission's technology transition discontinuance rules, including the requirements to receive streamlined treatment of its discontinuance application. In the Order on Reconsideration, the Bureau denied the Public Knowledge Petition for Reconsideration because all of Public Knowledge's arguments were fully considered, and rejected, by the Commission in the underlying proceeding. It also dismissed as moot the accompanying motion to have the Commission hold that
Order
in abeyance pending the outcome of the appeal that the Ninth Circuit ultimately denied.
In September 2019, CTIA filed a Petition for Declaratory Ruling seeking clarification of certain issues raised in the 2018 Third Report and Order. On July 29, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Declaratory Ruling clarifying that (1) the imposition of a blanket ban” by a utility on attachments to any portion of a utility pole is inconsistent with the federal requirement that a denial of access . . . be specific” to a particular request; and (2) while utilities and attachers have the flexibility to negotiate terms in their pole attachment agreements that differ from the requirements in the Commission's rules, a utility cannot use its significant negotiating leverage to require an attacher to give up rights to which the attacher is entitled under the rules without the attacher obtaining a corresponding benefit.
On July 20, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Declaratory Ruling filed on July 16, 2020 by NCTA The Internet & Television Association. NCTA asked the Commission to declare that: (1) Pole owners must share in the cost of pole replacements in unserved areas pursuant to section 224 of the Communications Act, section 1.1408(b) of the Commission's rules, and Commission precedent; (2) pole attachment complaints arising in unserved areas should be prioritized through placement on the Accelerated Docket under section 1.736 of the Commission's rules; and (3) section 1.1407(b) of the Commission's rules authorizes the Commission to order any pole owner to complete a pole replacement within a specified period of time or designate an authorized contractor to do so. Comments on the NCTA Petition were due by September 2, 2020, and reply comments by September 17, 2020.
On July 23, 2021, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Declaratory Ruling filed by the Edison Electric Institute asking the Commission to declare that: (1) When the Commission determines that a pole attachment rate, term, or condition is unjust and unreasonable and orders a refund pursuant to section 1.1407(a)(3) of the Commission's rules, the applicable statute of limitations” is the same as the two-year period prescribed by section 415(b) of the Act; and (2) refunds in pole attachment complaint proceedings are not appropriate” for any period preceding good-faith notice of a dispute. Deadlines for filing comments and reply comments were set for August 23, 2021, and September 10, 2021, respectively.
Timetable:
Action
Date
FR Cite
NPRM
01/06/15
80 FR 450
NPRM Comment Period End
02/05/15
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
03/09/15
FNPRM
09/25/15
80 FR 57768
R&O
09/25/15
80 FR 57768
FNPRM Comment Period End
10/26/15
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
11/24/15
2nd R&O
09/12/16
81 FR 62632
NPRM
05/16/17
82 FR 224533
NPRM Comment Period End
06/15/17
NPRM Reply Comment Period End
07/17/17
R&O
12/28/17
82 FR 61520
FNPRM Comment Period End
01/17/18
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End
02/16/18
2nd R&O
07/09/18
83 FR 31659
3rd R&O
09/14/18
83 FR 46812
NCTA Public Notice
07/20/20
CTIA Declaratory Ruling
07/29/20
Order on Reconsideration
02/02/21
86 FR 8872
EEI Public Notice
07/23/21
EEI Public Notice Comment Period End
08/23/21
EEI Public Notice Reply Comment Period End
09/10/21
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes.
Agency Contact:
Michele Berlove, Special Counsel, Competition Policy Div., WCB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone:
202 418-1477,
Email: michele.berlove@fcc.gov
.
RIN:
3060-AK32
528. Numbering Policies for Modern Communications, WC Docket No. 13-97
Legal Authority:
47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 153 to 154; 47 U.S.C. 201 to 205; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract:
This Order establishes a process to authorize interconnected VoIP providers to obtain North American Numbering Plan (NANP) telephone numbers directly from the numbering administrators, rather than through intermediaries. Section 52.15(g)(2)(i) of the Commission's rules limits access to telephone numbers to entities that demonstrate they are authorized to provide service in the area for which the numbers are being requested. The Commission has interpreted this rule as requiring evidence of either a State certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) or a Commission license. Neither authorization is typically available in practice to interconnected VoIP providers. Thus, as a practical matter, generally only telecommunications carriers are able to provide the proof of authorization required under our rules, and thus able to obtain numbers directly from the numbering administrators. This Order establishes an authorization process to enable interconnected VoIP providers that choose direct access to request numbers directly from the numbering administrators. Next, the Order sets forth several conditions designed to minimize number exhaust and preserve the integrity of the numbering system.
The Order requires interconnected VoIP providers obtaining numbers to comply with the same requirements applicable to carriers seeking to obtain numbers. These requirements include any State requirements pursuant to numbering authority delegated to the States by the Commission, as well as industry guidelines and practices, among others. The Order also requires interconnected VoIP providers to comply with facilities readiness requirements adapted to this context, and with numbering utilization and optimization requirements. As conditions to requesting and obtaining numbers directly from the numbering administrators, interconnected VoIP providers are also required to: (1)
Provide the relevant State commissions with regulatory and numbering contacts when requesting numbers in those states; (2) request numbers from the numbering administrators under their own unique OCN; (3) file any requests for numbers with the relevant State commissions at least 30 days prior to requesting numbers from the numbering administrators; and (4) provide customers with the opportunity to access all abbreviated dialing codes (N11 numbers) in use in a geographic area.
The Order also modifies Commission's rules in order to permit VoIP Positioning Center (VPC) providers to obtain pseudo-Automatic Number Identification (p-ANI) codes directly from the numbering administrators for purposes of providing E911 services.
Based on experiences and review of the direct access authorization process established by the 2015 Order, the Commission adopted a FNPRM which proposes clarifications and revisions to the Commission's rules to better ensure that interconnected VoIP providers that obtain direct access authorization fo not facilitate illegal robocalls, pose national security risks, or evade or abuse intercarrier compensation requirements. The FNPRM proposes to require additional certifications as part of the direct access authorization applications process, that would include certification of compliance with anti-robocalling obligations. The FNPRM also proposes to clarify that applicants disclose foreign ownership information on their direct access application. It would also propose to generally refer those applications with 10% or greater foreign ownership to the Executive Branch agencies for their review, consistent with the Commission's referral of other types of applications. The FNPRM also propose to clarify that holders of a direct access authorization must update the Commission and applicable states within 30 days of changes to ownership information submitted to the Commission. The FNPRM further proposes to clarify that Commission staff retain the authority to determine when to accept filings as complete and proposes to direct Commission staff to reject an application if an applicant has engaged in behavior contrary to the public interest or has been found to originate or transmit illegal robocalls. Finally, the FNPRM seeks comment on whether to expand the direct access authorization to one-way VoIP providers or other entities that use numbering resources.
Timetable:
Action
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