[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 143 (Thursday, July 27, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 48642-48680]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-14555]
[[Page 48641]]
Vol. 88
Thursday,
No. 143
July 27, 2023
Part XXI
Federal Communications Commission
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 143 / Thursday, July 27, 2023 / UA:
Reg Flex Agenda
[[Page 48642]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
47 CFR Ch. I
Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions--
Spring 2023
AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.
ACTION: Semiannual Regulatory Agenda.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: Twice a year, in spring and fall, the Commission publishes in
the Federal Register a list in the Unified Agenda of those major items
and other significant proceedings under development or review that
pertain to the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602). The Unified
Agenda also provides the Code of Federal Regulations citations and
legal authorities that govern these proceedings. The complete Unified
Agenda will be published on the internet in a searchable format at
www.reginfo.gov.
ADDRESSES: Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrea Brown, Program Specialist,
Office of Communications Business Opportunities, Federal Communications
Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, (202) 418-1663.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Unified Agenda of Major and Other Significant Proceedings
The Commission encourages public participation in its rulemaking
process. To help keep the public informed of significant rulemaking
proceedings, the Commission has prepared a list of important
proceedings now in progress. The General Services Administration
publishes the Unified Agenda in the Federal Register in the spring and
fall of each year.
The following terms may be helpful in understanding the status of
the proceedings included in this report:
Docket Number--assigned to a proceeding if the Commission has
issued either a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking or a Notice of Inquiry
concerning the matter under consideration. The Commission has used
docket numbers since January 1, 1978. Docket numbers consist of the
last two digits of the calendar year in which the docket was
established plus a sequential number that begins at 1 with the first
docket initiated during a calendar year (e.g., Docket No. 15-1 or
Docket No. 17-1). The abbreviation for the responsible bureau usually
precedes the docket number, as in ``MB Docket No. 15-137,'' which
indicates that the responsible bureau is the Media Bureau. A docket
number consisting of only five digits (e.g., Docket No. 29622)
indicates that the docket was established before January 1, 1978.
Notice of Inquiry (NOI)--the Commission will issue an NOI when it
is seeking information on a broad subject or trying to generate ideas
on a given topic. Interested parties may submit comments during the
specified comment period.
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)--the Commission will issue an
NPRM when it is proposing new rules or changes to existing rules and
regulations. Before any changes are actually made, the Commission
requests interested parties to submit written comments on the proposed
rules or revisions.
Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM)--the Commission will
issue an FNPRM when it is seeking additional information from the
public and requests the public to submit comments in the proceeding.
Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O)--the Commission will issue an
MO&O in response to a petition for rulemaking, to conclude an inquiry,
modify a decision, amend a Report and Order, or state that the Report
and Order will not be changed.
Rulemaking (RM) Number--assigned to a proceeding after the
appropriate bureau or office has reviewed a petition for rulemaking,
but before the Commission has taken action on the petition.
Report and Order (R&O)--the Commission may issue an R&O that will
either adopt new rules, change existing rules, or state that no rule or
regulation changes will be made.
Marlene H. Dortch,
Secretary, Federal Communications Commission.
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
263....................... Rules and Regulations 3060-AI14
Implementing the
Telephone Consumer
Protection Act (TCPA) of
1991 (CG Docket No. 02-
278).
264....................... Rules and Regulations 3060-AI15
Implementing Section 225
of the Communications Act
(Telecommunications Relay
Service) (CG Docket No.
03-123).
265....................... Structure and Practices of 3060-AJ42
the Video Relay Service
(VRS) Program (CG Docket
No. 10-51).
266....................... Implementation of the 3060-AJ84
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).
267....................... Implementation of Sections 3060-AK00
716 and 717 of the
Communications Act of
1934, as Enacted by the
Twenty-First Century
Communications and Video
Accessibility Act of 2010
(CG Docket No. 10-213).
268....................... Misuse of Internet 3060-AK01
Protocol (IP) Captioned
Telephone Service;
Telecommunications Relay
Services and Speech-to-
Speech Services; CG
Docket No. 13-24.
269....................... Advanced Methods to Target 3060-AK62
and Eliminate Unlawful
Robocalls (CG Docket No.
17-59).
270....................... Empowering Broadband 3060-AL33
Consumers Through
Transparency (CG Docket
No 02-278).
271....................... Targeting and Eliminating 3060-AL49
Unlawful Text Messages,
CG Docket 21-403, Notice
of Proposed Rulemaking.
272....................... Misuse of Internet 3060-AL58
Protocol (IP) Relay
Service; CG Docket No. 12-
38.
273....................... Compensation for Internet 3060-AL59
Protocol Captioned
Telephone Service.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economics--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
274....................... Development of Nationwide 3060-AJ15
Broadband Data to
Evaluate Reasonable and
Timely Deployment of
Advanced Services to All
Americans.
[[Page 48643]]
275....................... Expanding the Economic and 3060-AJ82
Innovation Opportunities
of Spectrum Through
Incentive Auctions (GN
Docket No. 12-268).
276....................... Broadband Data Collection. 3060-AL42
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economics--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
277....................... Universal Service Reform 3060-AJ58
Mobility Fund (WT Docket
No. 10-208).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of Engineering and Technology--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
278....................... Unlicensed Operation in 3060-AI52
the TV Broadcast Bands
(ET Docket No. 04-186).
279....................... Use of the 5.850-5.925 GHz 3060-AK96
Band; (ET Docket No. 19-
138), FCC 19-129.
280....................... Unlicensed White Space 3060-AL22
Device Operations in the
Television Bands (ET
Docket No. 20-36).
281....................... Protecting Against 3060-AL23
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.
282....................... Wireless Microphones in 3060-AL27
the TV Bands (ET Docket
No. 21-115), 600 MHz
Guard Band, 600 MHz
Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-
944 MHz, 944-952 MHz,
952.850-956.250 MHz,
956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-
1525 MHz.
283....................... FCC Seeks to Enable State- 3060-AL36
of-the-Art Radar Sensors
in 60 GHz Band (ET Docket
No. 21-264).
284....................... FCC Proposes to Update 3060-AL39
Equipment Authorization
Rules to Incorporate New
and Revised Industry
Standards, (ET Docket No.
21-363).
285....................... Allocation of Spectrum for 3060-AL44
Non-Federal Space Launch
Operations (ET Docket No.
13-115).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
International Bureau--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
286....................... Update to Parts 2 and 25 3060-AK59
Concerning
NonGeostationary, Fixed-
Satellite Service
Systems, and Related
Matters: IB Docket No. I6-
408.
287....................... Amendment of Parts 2 and 3060-AK84
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.
288....................... Facilitating the 3060-AK89
Communications of Earth
Stations in Motion With
Non-Geostationary Orbit
Space Stations: IB Docket
No. 18-315.
289....................... Space Innovation; 3060-AK90
Mitigation of Orbital
Debris in the New Space
Age: IB Docket Nos. 18-
313, 22-271.
290....................... Process Reform for 3060-AL12
Executive Branch Review
of Certain FCC
Applications and
Petitions Involving
Foreign Ownership (IB
Docket No. 16-155).
291....................... Parts 2 and 25 to Enable 3060-AL28
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).
292....................... Revising Spectrum Sharing 3060-AL41
Rules for Non-
Geostationary Orbit,
Fixed-Satellite Service
Systems: IB Docket No. 21-
456.
293....................... Expediting Initial 3060-AL51
Processing of Satellite
and Earth Station
Applications; Space
Innovation (IB Docket
Nos. 22-411 and 22-271).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Media Bureau--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
294....................... Revision of EEO Rules and 3060-AH95
Policies (MM Docket No.
98-204).
295....................... Establishment of Rules for 3060-AI38
Digital Low-Power
Television, Television
Translator, and
Television Booster
Stations (MB Docket No.
03-185).
296....................... Authorizing Permissive Use 3060-AK56
of the ``Next
Generation'' Broadcast
Television Standard (GN
Docket No. 16-142).
297....................... 2018 Quadrennial 3060-AK77
Regulatory Review of the
Commission's Broadcast
Ownership Rules (MB
Docket 18-349).
298....................... Equal Employment 3060-AK86
Opportunity Enforcement
(MB Docket 19-177).
299....................... Duplication of Programming 3060-AL19
on Commonly Owned Radio
Stations (MB Docket No.
19-310).
300....................... Sponsorship Identification 3060-AL20
Requirements for Foreign
Government-Provided
Programming (MB Docket
No. 20-299).
301....................... FM Broadcast Booster 3060-AL21
Stations (MB Docket 20-
401).
[[Page 48644]]
302....................... Amendment of Part 73 Rules 3060-AL50
to Update Television and
Class A Television
Broadcast Station Rules,
and Rules Applicable to
All Broadcast Stations
(MB Docket No. 22-227).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of Managing Director--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
303....................... Assessment and Collection 3060-AK64
of Regulatory Fees.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
304....................... Wireless E911 Location 3060-AJ52
Accuracy Requirements: PS
Docket No. 07-114.
305....................... Improving Outage Reporting 3060-AK39
for Submarine Cables and
Enhancing Submarine Cable
Outage Data; GN Docket
No. 15-206.
306....................... Amendments to Part 4 of 3060-AK40
the Commission's Rules
Concerning Disruptions to
Communications: (PS
Docket No. 15-80, 18-336,
23-5).
307....................... New Part 4 of the 3060-AK41
Commission's Rules
Concerning Disruptions to
Communications; ET Docket
No. 04-35.
308....................... Wireless Emergency Alerts 3060-AK54
(WEA): PS Docket No. 15-
91, 15-94, 22-329.
309....................... 911 Fee Diversion 3060-AL31
Rulemaking: PS Docket
Nos. 20-291, 09-14.
310....................... Resilient Networks, 3060-AL43
Amendments to Part 4 of
the Commission's Rules
Concerning Disruptions to
Communications; PS Docket
No 21-346.
311....................... Location--Based Routing 3060-AL52
for Wireless 911 Calls
(P.S. Docket 18-64).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
312....................... Amendment of Parts 1, 2, 3060-AJ87
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).
313....................... Promoting Technological 3060-AK06
Solutions to Combat
Wireless Contraband
Device Use in
Correctional Facilities;
GN Docket No. 13-111.
314....................... Promoting Investment in 3060-AK12
the 3550-3700 MHz Band;
GN Docket No. 17-258.
315....................... Updating Part 1 3060-AK28
Competitive Bidding Rules
(WT Docket No. 14-170).
316....................... Use of Spectrum Bands 3060-AK44
Above 24 GHz for Mobile
Services--Spectrum
Frontiers: WT Docket 10-
112.
317....................... Expanding Flexible Use of 3060-AK76
the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band:
GN Docket No. 18-122.
318....................... Amendment of the 3060-AK92
Commission's Rules to
Promote Aviation Safety:
WT Docket No. 19-140.
319....................... Implementation of State 3060-AL29
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).
320....................... Expanding Flexible Use of 3060-AL40
the 12.2-12.7 GHz Band,
et al., WT Docket No. 20-
443, et al.
321....................... Facilitating Shared Use in 3060-AL57
the 3100-3550 MHz Band.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wireline Competition Bureau--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
322....................... Telecommunications 3060-AG43
Carriers' Use of Customer
Proprietary Network
Information and Other
Customer Information (CC
Docket No. 96-115), Data
Breach Reporting
Requirements (WC Docket
No. 22-21).
323....................... Local Telephone Networks 3060-AH44
That LECs Must Make
Available to Competitors.
324....................... Jurisdictional Separations 3060-AJ06
325....................... Rates for Inmate Calling 3060-AK08
Services; WC Docket No.
12-375; Incarcerated
People's Communications
Services; Implementation
of the Martha Wright-Reed
Act, WC Docket No. 23-62.
326....................... Comprehensive Review of 3060-AK20
the Part 32 Uniform
System of Accounts (WC
Docket No. 14-130).
327....................... Restoring Internet Freedom 3060-AK21
(WC Docket No. 17-108);
Protecting and Promoting
the Open Internet (GN
Docket No. 14-28).
328....................... Technology Transitions; GN 3060-AK32
Docket No 13-5, WC Docket
No. 05-25; Accelerating
Wireline Broadband
Deployment by Removing
Barriers to
Infrastructure
Investment; WC Docket No.
17-84.
329....................... Numbering Policies for 3060-AK36
Modern Communications, WC
Docket No. 13-97.
330....................... Implementation of the 3060-AK57
Universal Service
Portions of the 1996
Telecommunications Act.
331....................... Toll Free Assignment 3060-AK91
Modernization and Toll
Free Service Access
Codes: WC Docket No. 17-
192, CC Docket No. 95-155.
332....................... Establishing the Digital 3060-AK93
Opportunity Data
Collection; WC Docket
Nos. 19-195 and 11-10.
333....................... Call Authentication Trust 3060-AL00
Anchor.
[[Page 48645]]
334....................... Implementation of the 3060-AL01
National Suicide
Improvement Act of 2018.
335....................... Modernizing Unbundling and 3060-AL02
Resale Requirements in an
Era of Next-Generation
Networks and Services.
336....................... Establishing a 5G Fund for 3060-AL15
Rural America; GN Docket
No. 20-32.
337....................... Improving Competitive 3060-AL35
Broadband Access to
Multiple Tenant
Environments.
338....................... Supporting Survivors of 3060-AL48
Domestic and Sexual
Violence (WC Docket No.
22-238, 11-42, 21-450).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau
Long-Term Actions
263. Rules and Regulations Implementing the Telephone Consumer
Protection Act (TCPA) of 1991 (CG Docket No. 02-278) [3060-AI14]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 227
Abstract: In this docket, the Commission considers rules and
policies to implement the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991
(TCPA). The TCPA places requirements on robocalls (calls using an
automatic telephone dialing system, an autodialer, a prerecorded or, an
artificial voice), telemarketing calls, and unsolicited fax
advertisements.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/08/02 67 FR 62667
FNPRM............................... 04/03/03 68 FR 16250
Order............................... 07/25/03 68 FR 44144
Order Effective..................... 08/25/03
Order on Reconsideration............ 08/25/03 68 FR 50978
Order............................... 10/14/03 68 FR 59130
FNPRM............................... 03/31/04 69 FR 16873
Order............................... 10/08/04 69 FR 60311
Order............................... 10/28/04 69 FR 62816
Order on Reconsideration............ 04/13/05 70 FR 19330
Order............................... 06/30/05 70 FR 37705
NPRM................................ 12/19/05 70 FR 75102
Public Notice....................... 04/26/06 71 FR 24634
Order............................... 05/03/06 71 FR 25967
NPRM................................ 12/14/07 72 FR 71099
Declaratory Ruling.................. 02/01/08 73 FR 6041
R&O................................. 07/14/08 73 FR 40183
Order on Reconsideration............ 10/30/08 73 FR 64556
NPRM................................ 03/22/10 75 FR 13471
R&O................................. 06/11/12 77 FR 34233
Public Notice....................... 06/30/10 75 FR 34244
Public Notice (Reconsideration 10/03/12 77 FR 60343
Petitions Filed).
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 04/12/21 86 FR 18934
Petitions Filed).
Declaratory Ruling and Order........ 12/14/22 87 FR 76425
Order on Reconsideration and 01/20/23 88 FR 3668
Declaratory Ruling.
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AI14
264. Rules and Regulations Implementing Section 225 of the
Communications Act (Telecommunications Relay Service) (CG Docket No.
03-123) [3060-AI15]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225
Abstract: This proceeding continues the Commission's inquiry into
improving the quality of telecommunications relay service (TRS) and
furthering the goal of functional equivalency, consistent with
Congress' mandate that TRS regulations encourage the use of existing
technology and not discourage or impair the development of new
technology. In this docket, the Commission explores ways to improve
emergency preparedness for TRS facilities and services, new TRS
technologies, public access to information and outreach, and issues
related to payments from the Interstate TRS Fund.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 06/21/06 71 FR 35553
Petition.
Clarification....................... 06/28/06 71 FR 36690
Declaratory Ruling on 07/06/06 71 FR 38268
Reconsideration.
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
[[Page 48646]]
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 07/09/10
Date).
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 11/22/11 76 FR 72124
Effective Date.
Proposed Rule (Public Notice)....... 02/28/12 77 FR 11997
Proposed Rule (FNPRM)............... 02/01/12 77 FR 4948
First R&O........................... 07/25/12 77 FR 43538
Public Notice....................... 10/29/12 77 FR 65526
Order on Reconsideration............ 12/26/12 77 FR 75894
Order............................... 02/05/13 78 FR 8030
Order (Interim Rule)................ 02/05/13 78 FR 8032
NPRM................................ 02/05/13 78 FR 8090
Announcement of Effective Date...... 03/07/13 78 FR 14701
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/13/13
FNPRM............................... 07/05/13 78 FR 40407
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 09/18/13
R&O................................. 07/05/13 78 FR 40582
R&O................................. 08/15/13 78 FR 49693
FNPRM............................... 08/15/13 78 FR 49717
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 09/30/13
R&O................................. 08/30/13 78 FR 53684
FNPRM............................... 09/03/13 78 FR 54201
NPRM................................ 10/23/13 78FR 63152
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 11/18/13
Petiton for Reconsideration; Request 12/16/13 78 FR 76096
for Comment.
Petition for Reconsideration; 12/16/13 78 FR 76097
Request for Comment.
Request for Clarification; Request 12/30/13 78 FR 79362
for Comment; Correction.
Petition for Reconsideration Comment 01/10/14
Period End.
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 08/28/14 79 FR 51450
Effective Date.
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 10/30/14 79 FR 64515
Effective Date).
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 08/17/17
Period End.
R&O................................. 08/22/17 82 FR 39673
Announcement of Effective Date...... 10/17/17 82 FR 48203
Public Notice; Petition for 10/25/17 82 FR 49303
Reconsideration.
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 06/18/19 84 FR 28264
Comment.
Petition for Recon Comment Period 07/15/19
End.
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 05/06/20 85 FR 26857
notices.
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 10/23/20 85 FR 67447
effective and compliance dates.
FNPRM............................... 02/01/21 86 FR 7681
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 04/02/21
Public Notice; Petition for 02/22/21 86 FR 10458
Reconsideration.
Oppositions Due Date................ 03/19/21
R&O................................. 02/23/21 86 FR 10844
NPRM................................ 03/19/21 86 FR 14859
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/03/21
NPRM................................ 06/04/21 86 FR 29969
NPRM Correction..................... 06/15/21 86 FR 31668
Order on Recon...................... 07/07/21 86 FR 35632
Public Notice....................... 07/15/21 86 FR 37328
NPRM Correction Comment Period End.. 07/30/21
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 08/09/21
Order on Recon; Correction.......... 10/05/21 86 FR 54871
[[Page 48647]]
NPRM................................ 10/05/21 86 FR 64440
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/18/22
Report & Order...................... 07/18/22 87 FR 42656
Report & Order...................... 09/21/22 87 FR 57645
Report & Order...................... 11/25/22 87 FR 72409
NPRM................................ 12/08/22 87 FR 75199
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/06/23
Public Notice....................... 01/31/23 88 FR 6220
Public Notice Opposition Period End. 02/27/23
NPRM................................ 02/02/23 88 FR 7049
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/03/23
Order on Reconsideration............ 02/22/22
Final Rule; Announcement of 03/08/23 88 FR 14251
Effective Date.
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AI15
265. Structure and Practices of the Video Relay Service (VRS) Program
(CG Docket No. 10-51) [3060-AJ42]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47
U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: The Commission takes a fresh look at its VRS rules to
ensure that it is available to and used by the full spectrum of
eligible users, encourages innovation, and is provided efficiently to
be less susceptible to the waste, fraud, and abuse that have plagued
the program and threatened its long-term viability. The Commission also
considers the most effective and efficient way to make VRS available
and to determine what is the most fair, efficient, and transparent
cost-recovery methodology. In addition, the Commission looks at various
ways to measure the quality of VRS so as to ensure a better consumer
experience.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Declaratory Ruling.................. 05/07/10 75 FR 25255
Declaratory Ruling.................. 07/13/10 75 FR 39945
Order............................... 07/13/10 75 FR 39859
Notice of Inquiry................... 07/19/10 75 FR 41863
NPRM................................ 08/23/10 75 FR 51735
Interim Final Rule.................. 02/15/11 76 FR 8659
Public Notice....................... 03/02/11 76 R 11462
R&O................................. 05/02/11 76 FR 24393
FNPRM............................... 05/02/11 76 FR 24437
NPRM................................ 05/02/11 76 FR 24442
R&O (Correction).................... 05/27/11 76 FR 30841
Order............................... 07/25/11 76 FR 44326
2nd R&O............................. 08/05/11 76 FR 47469
Order (Interim Final Rule).......... 08/05/11 76 FR 47476
Final Rule; Announcement of 09/26/11 76 FR 59269
Effective Date.
Final Rule; Petition for 09/27/11 76 FR 59557
Reconsideration; Public Notice.
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 11/03/11 76 FR 68116
Effective Date.
Final Rule; Announcement of 11/04/11 76 FR 68328
Effective Date.
Final Rule; Announcement of 11/07/11 76 FR 68642
Effective Date.
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 10/30/14 79 FR 64515
Effective Date).
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 08/17/17 .......................
Period End.
R&O and Order....................... 08/22/17 82 FR 39673
Announcement of Effective Date...... 10/17/17 82 FR 48203
Public Notice; Petition for 10/25/17 82 FR 49303
Reconsideration.
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 10/23/20 85 FR 67447
effective and compliance dates.
FNPRM............................... 02/01/21 86 FR 7681
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 04/02/21 .......................
Public Notice; Petition for 02/22/21 86 FR 10458
Reconsideration.
Oppositions Due Date................ 03/19/21 .......................
NPRM................................ 03/19/21 86 FR 14859
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/03/21 .......................
NPRM................................ 06/04/21 86 FR 29969
NPRM Correction..................... 06/15/21 86 FR 31668
NPRM Correction Comment Period End.. 07/30/21 .......................
Order on Recon...................... 07/07/21 86 FR 35632
Order on Recon; Correction.......... 10/05/21 86 FR 54871
Report & Order...................... 09/21/22 87 FR 57645
Report & Order...................... 11/25/22 87 FR 72409
NPRM................................ 12/08/22 87 FR 75199
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/06/23 .......................
Public Notice....................... 01/31/23 88 FR 6220
Public Notice Opposition Period End. 02/27/23 .......................
Final Rule; Announcement of 03/08/23 88 FR 14251
Effective Date.
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ42
[[Page 48648]]
266. Implementation of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act
of 2012/Establishment of a Public Safety Answering Point Do-Not-Call
Registry (CG Docket No. 12-129) [3060-AJ84]
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 112-96, sec. 6507
Abstract: The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012
required the Commission to create a Do-Not-Call Registry for public
safety answering point (PSAP) telephone numbers and to prohibit the use
of automated dialing equipment to place calls to PSAP numbers on the
Registry. In this docket, the Commission adopted rules and policies
implementing these statutory requirements.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/21/12 77 FR 37362
R&O................................. 10/29/12 77 FR 71131
Correction Amendments............... 02/13/13 78 FR 10099
Announcement of Effective Date...... 03/26/13 78 FR 18246
FNPRM............................... 11/01/21 86 FR 60189
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 12/01/21 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy
Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 717 338-2797, Fax: 717 338-2574, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ84
267. Implementation of Sections 716 and 717 of the Communications Act
of 1934, as Enacted by the Twenty-First Century Communications and
Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CG Docket No. 10-213) [3060-AK00]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 255; 47
U.S.C. 617 to 619
Abstract: These proceedings implement sections 716, 717, and 718 of
the Communications Act, which were added by the Twenty-First Century
Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA), related to
the accessibility of advanced communications services and equipment
(section 716), recordkeeping and enforcement requirements for entities
subject to sections 255, 716, and 718 (section 717), and accessibility
of internet browsers built into mobile phones (section 718).
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/14/11 76 FR 13800
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 04/12/11 76 FR 20297
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/13/11 .......................
FNPRM............................... 12/30/11 76 FR 82240
R&O................................. 12/30/11 76 FR 82354
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 03/14/12 .......................
Announcement of Effective Date...... 04/25/12 77 FR 24632
2nd R&O............................. 05/22/13 78 FR 30226
R&O on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, 04/13/15 80 FR 19738
and Order.
Public Notice....................... 05/19/22 87 FR 30442
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 07/18/22 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Darryl Cooper, Attorney, Disability Rights Office,
CGB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-7131, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK00
268. Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Captioned Telephone Service;
Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services; CG
Docket No. 13-24 [3060-AK01]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 225
Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiated
this proceeding in its effort to ensure that internet-Protocol
Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS) is provided effectively and in the
most efficient manner. In doing so, the FCC adopted rules to address
certain practices related to the provision and marketing of IP CTS, as
well as compensation of TRS providers. IP CTS is a form of relay
service designed to allow people with hearing loss to speak directly to
another party on a telephone call and to simultaneously listen to the
other party and read captions of what that party is saying over an IP-
enabled device. To ensure that IP CTS is provided efficiently to
persons who need to use this service, the Commission adopted rules
establishing several requirements and issued an FNPRM to address
additional issues.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 12/16/13 78 FR 76097
for Comment.
Petition for Reconsideration Comment 01/10/14
Period End.
Announcement of Effective Date...... 07/11/14 79 FR 40003
Announcement of Effective Date...... 08/28/14 79 FR 51446
Correction--Announcement of 08/28/14 79 FR 51450
Effective Date.
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 06/18/19 84 FR 28264
Comment.
Petition for Recon Comment Period 07/15/19
End.
R&O................................. 01/06/20 85 FR 462
Announcement of Effective Date...... 02/19/20 85 FR 9392
Final Rule; Removal of Compliance 05/06/20 85 FR 26857
Notes.
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 02/22/21 86 FR 10458
Reconsideration.
NPRM................................ 03/19/21 86 FR 14859
Oppositions Due Date................ 03/19/21
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 04/02/21
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/03/21
Public Notice....................... 07/15/21 86 FR 37328
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 08/09/21
Report & Order...................... 09/21/22 87 FR 57645
NPRM................................ 12/08/22 87 FR 75199
[[Page 48649]]
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/06/23
Public Notice....................... 01/31/23 88 FR 6220
Public Notice Opposition Period End. 02/27/23
NPRM................................ 02/02/23 88 FR 7049
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/03/23
Order on Reconsideration............ 02/22/23 88 FR 10853
Final Rule; Announcement of 03/08/23 88 FR 14251
Effective Date.
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK01
269. Advanced Methods To Target and Eliminate Unlawful Robocalls (CG
Docket No. 17-59) [3060-AK62]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 201 and 202; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C.
251(e)
Abstract: The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 restricts
the use of robocalls autodialed or prerecorded calls in certain
instances. In CG Docket No. 17-59, the Commission considers rules and
policies aimed at eliminating unlawful robocalling. Among the issues it
examines in this docket are whether to allow carriers to block calls
that purport to be from unallocated or unassigned phone numbers through
the use of spoofing, whether to allow carriers to block calls based on
their own analyses of which calls are likely to be unlawful and whether
to establish a database of reassigned phone numbers to help prevent
robocalls to consumers, who did not consent to such calls.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM/NOI............................ 05/17/17 82 FR 22625
2nd NOI............................. 07/13/17
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/31/17
FNPRM............................... 01/08/18 83 FR 770
R&O................................. 01/12/18 83 FR 1566
2nd FNPRM........................... 04/23/18 83 FR 17631
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 06/07/18
2nd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End.. 07/09/18
2nd R&O............................. 03/26/19 84 FR 11226
3rd FNPRM........................... 06/24/19 84 FR 29478
Declaratory Ruling.................. 06/24/19 84 FR 29387
Public Notice Seeking Input on 12/30/19
Report.
Public Notice Seeking Comment on 01/24/20
Reassigned Numbers.
Public Notice Seeking Comment on RND 02/26/20
Cost/Fee Structure.
Public Notice Establishing 04/16/20
Guidelines for RND.
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, 07/31/20 85 FR 46063
4th FNPRM.
4th R&O (release date).............. 12/30/20
Public Notice....................... 02/08/21 86 FR 8558
Public Notice....................... 04/13/21
Public Notice....................... 06/15/21
Public Notice....................... 10/01/21 86 FR 61077
5th FNPRM........................... 10/26/21 86 FR 59084
Public Notice....................... 12/29/21
Order on Reconsideration, 6th FNPRM, 12/30/21 86 FR 74399
Waiver Order.
Public Notice....................... 02/08/22 87 FR 7044
Seventh Further Notice of Proposed 05/19/22 87 FR 42670
Rulemaking.
Sixth Report and Order.............. 05/19/22 87 FR 42916
Public Notice....................... 08/24/22 87 FR 51920
Public Notice....................... 11/18/22 87 FR 69206
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Karen Schroeder, Associate Division Chief, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-0654, Email: [email protected].
Jerusha Burnett, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications
Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0526,
Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK62
270. Empowering Broadband Consumers Through Transparency (CG Docket No.
02-278) [3060-AL33]
Legal Authority: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Pub. L.
117-58, 135 Stat. 429, 60504(a) (2021)
Abstract: In this docket, the Commission adopted rules requiring
broadband internet access service providers (ISPs) display, at the
point of sale, labels to disclose to consumers certain information
about prices, introductory rates or promotions, data allowances,
broadband speeds, and management practices, among other things.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/07/22 87 FR 6827
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/09/22
Reply NPRM Comment Period End....... 03/24/22
Report & Order and FNPRM............ 12/16/22 87 FR 77048
Order Comment Period Extended....... 01/04/23
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 03/16/23
Petition for Reconsideration........ 01/31/23 88 FR 6219
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Erica McMahon, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau,
445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0346, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL33
271. Targeting and Eliminating Unlawful Text Messages, CG Docket 21-
403, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking [3060-AL49]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 227(e), 251(e), 303
Abstract: In this docket, the Commission considers rules and
policies concerning the ability for mobile wireless service providers
to block illegal text messages.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 09/27/22 87 FR 61271
Report & Order and FNPRM............ 03/17/23
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Mika Savir, Attorney, Federal Communications
Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0384,
Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL49
[[Page 48650]]
272. Misuse of Internet Protocol (IP) Relay Service; CG Docket
No. 12-38 [3060-AL58]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152 and 154; 47 U.S.C.
225; 47 U.S.C. 616
Abstract: Title IV of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires
the Federal Communications Commission to ensure the availability of
telecommunications relay services. IP Relay is a form of TRS that
permits an individual with a hearing or a speech disability to
communicate in text using an internet Protocol-enabled device via the
internet. In CG Docket No. 12-38, the Commission considers rules and
policy for the provision of IP Relay, including the process for
registering users for IP CTS and the methodology for determining TRS
Fund support.The Commission takes these steps to ensure the provision
of IP Relay in a functionally equivalent manner to persons who are
deaf, hard of hearing, deaf blind or have speech disabilities. In doing
so, the Commission balances several different factors including
regulating the recovery of costs caused by the service, encouraging the
use of existing technology and not discouraging or impairing the
development of improved technology, and ensuring IP Relay is available,
to the extent possible and in the most efficient manner.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Notice....................... 02/08/12 77 FR 11997
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 03/20/12
Final Rule.......................... 07/25/12 77 FR 43538
Final Rule Effective................ 07/25/12
NPRM................................ 03/19/21 86 FR 14859
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/03/21
Final Rule.......................... 11/25/22 87 FR 72409
Final Rule Effective................ 12/27/22
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Attorney Advisor, Disability Rights
Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1264, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL58
273. Compensation for Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone
Service [3060-AL59]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 225
Abstract: Title IV of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires
the Federal Communications Commission to ensure the availability of
telecommunications relay. Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone
Services (IP CTS) is a form of relay service designed to allow people
with hearing loss to speak directly to another party on a telephone
call and to simultaneously listen to the other party and read captions
of what that party is saying over an IP-enabled device. In CG Docket
No. 22-408, the Commission considers rules and policy for the adoption
of a compensation methodology and compensation levels for
Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) Fund support of providers of IP
CTS.The Commission takes these steps to ensure the provision of IP CTS
in a functionally equivalent manner to persons who are deaf, hard of
hearing, deafblind or have speech disabilities. In doing so, the
Commission balances several different factors including regulating the
recovery of costs caused by the service, encouraging the use of
existing technology and not discouraging or impairing the development
of improved technology, and ensuring IP CTS is available, to the extent
possible and in the most efficient manner.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/02/23 88 FR 7049
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Attorney Advisor, Disability Rights
Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1264, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL59
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Economics
Long-Term Actions
274. Development of Nationwide Broadband Data To Evaluate Reasonable
and Timely Deployment of Advanced Services to All Americans [3060-AJ15]
Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 252; 47 U.S.C. 257; 47
U.S.C. 271; 47 U.S.C. 1302; 47 U.S.C. 160(b); 47 U.S.C. 161(a)(2)
Abstract: The 09/09/2022 Order ended the collection of broadband
deployment data through Form 477. Broadband and voice subscribership
data will continue to be submitted through Form 477. Beginning with
data as of December 31, 2022 and beyond, Form 477 subscribership data
is submitted in the Broadband Data Collection (BDC) filing system. The
Form 477 filing system remains open for filers to submit and make
corrections to filings through June 30, 2022.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/16/07 72 FR 27519
Order............................... 07/02/08 73 FR 37861
Order............................... 10/15/08 73 FR 60997
NPRM................................ 02/08/11 76 FR 10827
Order............................... 06/27/13 78 FR 49126
NPRM................................ 08/24/17 82 FR 40118
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/25/17
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 10/10/17
R&O and FNPRM....................... 08/22/19 84 FR 43764
Order............................... 12/16/22 87 FR 76949
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Suzanne Mendez, Supervisory Program Manager, OEA,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-0941, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ15
275. Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum
Through Incentive Auctions (GN Docket No. 12-268) [3060-AJ82]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 309(j)(8)(G); 47 U.S.C. 1452
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
[[Page 48651]]
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ82
276. Broadband Data Collection [3060-AL42]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151-154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 201;
47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C.
319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 641-646
Abstract: The Commission has long recognized that precise, granular
data on the availability of fixed and mobile broadband are vital to
bringing digital opportunity to all Americans, no matter where they
live, work, or travel.
On March 23, 2020, the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and
Technological Availability Act (Broadband DATA Act) was signed into law
requiring the Commission to create a new set of broadband availability
maps. Among other things, the Broadband DATA Act requires the
Commission to collect standardized, granular data on the availability
and quality of both fixed and mobile broadband internet access
services, to create a common dataset of all locations where fixed
broadband internet access service can be installed (the Broadband
Serviceable Location Fabric or Fabric), and to create publicly
available coverage maps. The Act further requires the Commission to
establish processes for members of the public and other entities to (1)
provide verified data for use in the coverage maps; (2) challenge the
coverage maps, the broadband availability data submitted by broadband
internet access service providers (providers), and the Fabric; and (3)
submit specific crowdsource information about the development and
availability of broadband service.
In July 2020, implementing the Broadband DATA Act and building off
of an August 2019 Report and Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking,
the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order and Third Further
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that adopted rules for the collection and
verification of improved, more precise data on both fixed and mobile
broadband availability. In January 2021, the Commission released a
Third Report and Order that established new requirements for the BDC
and took additional steps to implement the Broadband DATA Act. The
Commission adopted rules to specify which fixed and mobile providers
are required to report broadband availability data and expanded the
reporting and certification requirements for filing data in the BDC. It
also adopted standards for collecting verified broadband data from
State, local, and Tribal entities and certain third parties, and for
identifying locations that would be included in the Fabric.
Importantly, in the Third Report and Order, the Commission also
established processes for verifying the accuracy of provider-submitted
data and the Fabric, including a third party challenge process.
Implementing the Broadband DATA Act and these new rules, the
Commission created a complex data platform and system to collect and
map availability data collected from over 2500 providers and for
consumers and other stakeholders to submit challenges to that data;
established the Fabric dataset of locations upon which to overlay
provider availability data; and
[[Page 48652]]
established a dedicated help center to provide technical assistance to
providers, consumers and other stakeholders.
In July 2021, the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB), Office
of Economics and Analytics (OEA), and Office of Engineering and
Technology (OET) released a Public Notice seeking comment on the
technical requirements for the mobile challenge, verification, and
crowdsourcing processes required under the Broadband DATA Act for the
new Broadband Data Collection (BDC). In March 2022, the Broadband Data
Task Force (Task Force), WTB, OEA, and OET released a detailed order,
technical appendix, rules, and technical data specifications setting
forth technical requirements and specifications for the mobile
challenge, verification, and crowdsource processes required by the Act.
To help facilitate the mobile challenge process, in April 2022, the
Task Force and OET issued a Public Notice announcing the technical
requirements and procedures for approving third-party mobile speed test
procedures for use in collecting and submitting mobile network
performance data as part of the BDC. To assist entities that choose to
file mobile challenges in bulk, in September 2022 the Task Force and
WTB established a process for entities to use their own software and
hardware to collect on-the-ground mobile speed test data for use in the
BDC mobile challenge process.
Also in April 2022, the Task Force, WCB, WTB, OEA, and OET released
a Public Notice providing details on the procedures for state, local,
and Tribal governmental entities to submit verified availability data
through the BDC system.
Seeking to clarify the Commission's rules for filing data in the
BDC, in July 2022 WCB, WTB, OEA, and the Task Force issued a
Declaratory Ruling on certain aspects of a rule regarding the
engineering certification in BDC filings and issued a limited waiver of
the requirement that providers have an engineer certification their
biannual BDC filings for the first three filing cycles of the BDC.
On June 15, 2022, the FCC Enforcement Bureau issued an Enforcement
Advisory reminding all facilities-based providers of their duty to
timely file complete and accurate data in the BDC by September 1, 2022.
In February 2022, the Commission announced the opening of the
initial filing window of the BDC would open on June 30, 2022, and was
due no later than September 1, 2022. In December 2022, the Commission
announced that the second filing window of the BDC would open on
January 3, 2023, and required all fixed and mobile providers to submit
broadband availability data as of December 31, 2022, and was due no
later than March 1, 2023.
In November 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of
its new National Broadband Map based on version 1 of the Fabric and the
availability data submitted by providers as of June 30, 2022. The new
map is the most comprehensive, granular, and standardized data the
Commission has ever published on broadband availability.
The Commission adopted an Order in December 2022, to sunset the
Form 477 broadband deployment data collection and eliminate a largely
duplicative requirement on providers. As a result, providers will no
longer be required to submit Form 477 broadband deployment data, but
must still submit broadband and voice subscription data using the FCC
Form 477; those filers will submit their data through the BDC system.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/03/17 82 FR 40118
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/25/17
Report & Order...................... 08/01/19 84 FR 43705
Second Further Notice of Proposed 08/01/19 84 FR 43764
Rulemaking.
Second Further NPRM Comment Period 10/07/19
End.
2nd R&O............................. 07/16/20 85 FR 50886
3rd FNPRM........................... 07/16/20 85 FR 50911
3rd R&O............................. 01/13/21 86 FR 18124
Public Notice....................... 07/16/21 86 FR 40398
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 09/27/21
Order............................... 03/09/22 87 FR 21476
Order............................... 12/16/22 87 FR 76949
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Kimia Nikseresht, Legal Advisor, Broadband Data
Task Force, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1636, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL42
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Economics
Completed Actions
277. Universal Service Reform Mobility Fund (WT Docket No. 10-208)
[3060-AJ58]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 155; 47
U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 205; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 254;
47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 303(c); 47 U.S.C. 303(f); 47
U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 303(y); 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310
Abstract: This proceeding establishes the Mobility Fund, which the
Commission is implementing in two phases. Mobility Fund Phase I
consisted of two reverse auctions that provided initial infusions of
funds toward solving persistent gaps in mobile services through
targeted, one-time support for the build-out of current and next-
generation wireless infrastructure in areas where these services are
unavailable. The Mobility Fund Phase II (MF-II) reverse auction aims to
provide support funds over a 10-year term to support build-out of
current and next-generation wireless infrastructure in areas where
unsubsidized services are unavailable. MF-II began with a one-time
collection of existing wireless broadband coverage data from current
providers to determine the areas in which qualified service has been
deployed, which data was used to create a map of areas presumptively
eligible for MF-II support. Entities could challenge asserted
unsubsidized 4G LTE coverage through the Mobility Fund Phase II
challenge process, and providers may file response data countering
challenges. The results of the challenge process will determine the
final list of areas eligible for funding for MF-II auction funding.
With the advent of 5G technology, the Commission retargeted universal
service funding for mobile broadband and voice in the high-cost program
to support the deployment of 5G services by establishing the 5G Fund
for Rural America, and it therefore closed the Mobility Fund docket.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/14/10 75 FR 67060
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/18/11 .......................
R&O................................. 11/29/11 76 FR 73830
FNPRM............................... 12/16/11 76 FR 78384
R&O................................. 12/28/11 76 FR 81562
2nd R&O............................. 07/03/12 77 FR 39435
4th Order on Recon.................. 08/14/12 77 FR 48453
FNPRM............................... 07/09/14 79 FR 39196
[[Page 48653]]
R&O, Declaratory Ruling, Order, 07/09/14 79 FR 39163
MO&O, and 7th Order on Recon.
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 09/08/14 .......................
R&O................................. 10/07/16 81 FR 69696
FNPRM............................... 10/07/16 81 FR 69772
FNPRM............................... 03/13/17 82 FR 13413
R&O................................. 03/28/17 82 FR 15422
R&O Correction...................... 04/04/17 82 FR 16297
Order on Recon and 2nd R&O.......... 09/08/17 82 FR 42473
2nd Order on Recon.................. 04/25/18 83 FR 17934
Order and MO&O...................... 08/30/18 83 FR 44241
NPRM................................ 08/30/18 83 FR 44254
3rd R&O............................. 03/06/19 84 FR 8003
NPRM and Order...................... 06/05/20 85 DR 34525
Final Rule.......................... 06/05/20 85 FR 34525
Final Rule Effective................ 06/05/20 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Audra Hale-Maddox, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-2109, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ58
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Office of Engineering and Technology
Long-Term Actions
278. Unlicensed Operation in the TV Broadcast Bands (ET Docket No. 04-
186) [3060-AI52]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303(e)
and 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307
Abstract: The Commission adopted rules to allow unlicensed radio
transmitters to operate in the broadcast television spectrum at
locations where that spectrum is not being used by licensed services.
(This unused TV spectrum is often termed ``white spaces.'') This action
will make a significant amount of spectrum available for new and
innovative products and services, including broadband data and other
services for businesses and consumers. The actions taken are a
conservative first step that includes many safeguards to prevent
harmful interference to incumbent communications services. Moreover,
the Commission will closely oversee the development and introduction of
these devices to the market and will take whatever actions may be
necessary to avoid and, if necessary, correct any interference that may
occur. The Second Memorandum Opinion and Order finalizes rules to make
the unused spectrum in the TV bands available for unlicensed broadband
wireless devices. This particular spectrum has excellent propagation
characteristics that allow signals to reach farther and penetrate walls
and other structures. Access to this spectrum could enable more
powerful public internet connections--super Wi-Fi hot spots--with
extended range, fewer dead spots, and improved individual speeds as a
result of reduced congestion on existing networks. This type of
``opportunistic use'' of spectrum has great potential for enabling
access to other spectrum bands and improving spectrum efficiency. The
Commission's actions here are expected to spur investment and
innovation in applications and devices that will be used not only in
the TV band, but eventually in other frequency bands as well. This
Order addressed five petitions for reconsideration of the Commission's
decisions in the Second Memorandum Opinion and Order (``Second MO&O'')
in this proceeding and modified rules in certain respects. In
particular, the Commission: (1) increased the maximum height above
average terrain (HAAT) for sites where fixed devices may operate; (2)
modified the adjacent channel emission limits to specify fixed rather
than relative levels; and (3) slightly increased the maximum
permissible power spectral density (PSD) for each category of TV bands
device. These changes will result in decreased operating costs for
fixed TVBDs and allow them to provide greater coverage, thus increasing
the availability of wireless broadband services in rural and
underserved areas without increasing the risk of interference to
incumbent services. The Commission also revised and amended several of
its rules to better effectuate the Commission's earlier decisions in
this docket and to remove ambiguities.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/18/04 69 FR 34103
First R&O........................... 11/17/06 71 FR 66876
FNPRM............................... 11/17/06 71 FR 66897
R&O and MO&O........................ 02/17/09 74 FR 7314
Petitions for Reconsideration....... 04/13/09 74 FR 16870
Second MO&O......................... 12/06/10 75 FR 75814
Petitions for Reconsideration....... 02/09/11 76 FR 7208
2 Order on Reconsideration, FNPRM, 05/17/12 77 FR 29236
and Order.
FNPRM--Proposed Rule................ 06/01/22 87 FR 33109
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-7506, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AI52
279. Use of the 5.850-5.925 GHz Band; (ET Docket No. 19-138), FCC 19-
129 [3060-AK96]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 1; 47 U.S.C. 4(i); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47
U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 CFR 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, we repurpose 45 megahertz of the
5.850-5.925 GHz band (the 5.9 GHz band) to allow for the expansion of
unlicensed mid-band spectrum operations, while continuing to dedicate
30 megahertz of spectrum for vital intelligent transportation system
(ITS) operations. In addition, to promote the most efficient and
effective use of this ITS spectrum, we are requiring the ITS service to
use cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) based technology at the end
of a transition period. By splitting the 5.9 GHz band between
unlicensed and ITS uses, today's decision puts the 5.9 GHz band in the
best position to serve the needs of the American public.
In the Further Notice, the Commission addresses issues remaining to
finalize the restructuring of the 5.9 GHz band. Specifically, the
Commission addresses: The transition of ITS operations in the 5.895-
5.925 GHz band from Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) based
technology to Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) based technology;
the codification of C-V2X technical parameters in the Commission's
rules; other transition considerations; and the transmitter power and
emissions limits, and other issues, related to full-power outdoor
unlicensed operations across the entire 5.850-5.895 GHz portion of the
5.9 GHz band. The Commission modified the Further Notice released on
November 20, 2020, with an Erratum released on December 11, 2020. The
Commission released a Second Erratum on February 9, 2021. The
corrections from these errata are included in this document.
Timetable:
[[Page 48654]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/06/20 85 FR 6841
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/09/20 .......................
FNPRM............................... 05/03/21 86 FR 23323
R&O & Order of Proposed Modification 05/03/21 86 FR 23281
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Howard Griboff, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-0657, Fax: 202 418-2824, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK96
280. Unlicensed White Space Device Operations in the Television Bands
(ET Docket No. 20-36) [3060-AL22]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 302a;
47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 1.407 and 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission revises its rules to
provide additional opportunities for unlicensed white space devices
operating in the broadcast television bands (TV bands) to deliver
wireless broadband services in rural areas and applications associated
with the Internet of Things (IoT). This region of the spectrum has
excellent propagation characteristics that make it particularly
attractive for delivering communications services over long distances,
coping with variations in terrain, as well as providing coverage into
and within buildings. We offer several proposals to spur continued
growth of the white space device ecosystem, especially for providing
affordable broadband service to rural and underserved communities that
can help close the digital divide.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 04/03/20 85 FR 18901
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/03/20 .......................
Report & Order...................... 01/12/21 86 FR 2278
R&O--Final Rule..................... 01/12/21 86 FR 2278
FNPRM--Proposed Rule................ 02/25/21 86 FR 11490
2nd Order on Recon, FNPRM, and Order 06/01/22 87 FR 33109
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-7506, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL22
281. Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications
Supply Chain Through the Equipment Authorization and Competitive
Bidding Programs; ET Docket No. 21-232, EA Docket No. 21-233 [3060-
AL23]
Legal Authority: Secs. 4(i), 301, 302, 303, 309(j), 312, and 316 of
the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. secs. 154(i),
301, 302a, 303, 309(j), 312, 316, and sec. 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission proposes prohibiting
the authorization of any communications equipment on the list of
equipment and services (Covered List) that the Commission maintains
pursuant to the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019.
Such equipment has been found to pose an unacceptable risk to the
national security of the United States or the security and safety of
United States persons. We also seek comment on whether and under what
circumstances we should revoke any existing authorizations of such
covered communications equipment. We invite comment on whether we
should require additional certifications relating to national security
from applicants who wish to participate in Commission auctions. In the
Notice of Inquiry, we seek comment on other actions the Commission
should consider taking to create incentives in its equipment
authorization processes for improved trust through the adoption of
cybersecurity best practices in consumer devices.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM and NOI........................ 08/19/21 86 FR 46644
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/20/21 .......................
Report & Order and FNPRM............ 11/25/22 .......................
FNPRM--Proposed Rule................ 03/08/23 88 FR 14312
Report & Order--Final Rule.......... 02/06/23 88 FR 7592
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jamie Coleman, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-2705, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL23
282. Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands (ET Docket No. 21-115), 600
MHz Guard Band, 600 MHz Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz,
952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz [3060-AL27]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. secs. 154(i), 201, 302a, 303, and secs.
1.407 and 1.411
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to enhance the
spectral efficiency of wireless microphones by permitting a recently
developed type of wireless microphone system, termed herein as a
Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System (WMAS), to operate in certain
frequency bands. This emerging technology would enable more wireless
microphones to operate in the spectrum available for wireless
microphone operations, and thus advances an important Commission goal
of promoting efficient spectrum use. The Commission proposes to revise
the applicable technical rules for operation of low-power auxiliary
station (LPAS) devices to permit WMAS to operate in the broadcast
television (TV) bands and other LPAS frequency bands on a licensed
basis. The Commission also proposes to update the existing LPAS and
wireless microphone rules to reflect the end of the post-Incentive
auction transition period and update references to international
wireless microphone standards.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/01/21 86 FR 35046
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/02/21 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-7506, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL27
283. FCC Seeks To Enable State-of-the-Art Radar Sensors in 60 GHz Band
(ET Docket No. 21-264) [3060-AL36]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 201, 302a, 303, and secs. 1.407
and 1.411
Abstract: In this preceding, the Commission proposes to revise the
Commission's rules to provide expanded operational flexibility to
[[Page 48655]]
unlicensed field disturbance sensor (FDS) devices (e.g., radars) that
operate in the 57-64 GHz band (60 GHz band). The Commission's proposal
recognizes the increasing practicality of using mobile radar devices in
the 60 GHz band to perform innovative and life-saving functions,
including gesture control, detection of unattended children in
vehicles, and monitoring of vulnerable medical patients, and it is
designed to stimulate the development of new products and services in a
wide variety of areas to include, for example, personal safety,
autonomous vehicles, home automation, environmental control, and
healthcare monitoring, while also ensuring coexistence among unlicensed
FDS devices and current and future unlicensed communications devices in
the 60 GHz band.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/19/21 86 FR 46661
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/18/21 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Anh Wride, Electronics Engineer, Federal
Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone: 202 418-0577, Fax: 202 418-1944, Email: [email protected].
Thomas Struble, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2470, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL36
284. FCC Proposes To Update Equipment Authorization Rules To
Incorporate New and Revised Industry Standards, (ET Docket No. 21-363)
[3060-AL39]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 301, 302a, 303, and secs. 1.407
and 1.411
Abstract: We propose targeted updates to our rules to incorporate
four new and updated standards that are integral to the testing of
equipment and accreditation of laboratories that test RF devices.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/17/22 87 FR 15180
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/16/22 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brian Butler, Engineer, Federal Communications
Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2702,
Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL39
285. Allocation of Spectrum for Non-Federal Space Launch Operations (ET
Docket No. 13-115) [3060-AL44]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151. 152, 154(i), 155(c), 301, 303(c),
303(f), and 303(r)
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Federal Communications Commission
(Commission) takes steps towards establishing a spectrum allocation and
licensing framework that will provide regulatory certainty and improved
efficiency and that will promote innovation and investment in the
United States commercial space launch industry. In the Further Notice
of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission seeks comment on the definition
of space launch operations, the potential allocation of spectrum for
the commercial space launch industry, including the 420-430 MHz, 2025-
2110 MHz, and 5650-5925 MHz bands. In addition, the Commission seeks
comment on establishing service rules, including licensing and
technical rules and coordination procedures, for the use of spectrum
for commercial space launch operations. Finally, the Commission seeks
to refresh the record on potential ways to facilitate Federal use of
commercial satellite services in what are currently non-Federal
satellite bands and enable more robust federal use of the 399.9-400.05
MHz band.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM and NOI........................ 07/01/13 78 FR 39200
FNPRM--Proposed Rule................ 06/10/21 86 FR 30860
Report & Order--Final Rule.......... 06/28/21 86 FR 33902
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Nicholas Oros, Supervisory Attorney Advisor,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-0636, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL44
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
International Bureau
Long-Term Actions
286. Update to Parts 2 and 25 Concerning Nongeostationary, Fixed-
Satellite Service Systems, and Related Matters: IB Docket No. I6-408
[3060-AK59]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: On January 11, 2017, the Commission began a rulemaking to
update its rules and policies concerning non-geostationary-satellite
orbit (NGSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS) systems and related
matters. The Commission proposed among other things, to provide for
more flexible use of the 17.8-20.2 GHz bands for FSS, promote shared
use of spectrum among NGSO FSS satellite systems, and remove
unnecessary design restrictions on NGSO FSS systems. The Commission
subsequently adopted a Report and Order establishing new sharing
criteria among NGSO FSS systems and providing additional flexibility
for FSS spectrum use. The Commission also released a Further Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking proposing to remove the domestic coverage
requirement for NGSO FSS systems and later adopted a Second Report and
Order removing this requirement.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/11/17 82 FR 3258
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/10/17 .......................
FNPRM............................... 11/15/17 82 FR 52869
R&O................................. 12/18/17 82 FR 59972
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 01/02/18 .......................
2nd R&O............................. 02/21/21 86 FR 11642
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0803, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK59
[[Page 48656]]
287. Amendment of Parts 2 and 25 of the FCC Rules To Facilitate the Use
of Earth Stations in Motion Communicating With Geostationary Orbit
Space Stations in FSS Bands: IB Docket No. 17-95 [3060-AK84]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303;
47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: In June 2017, the Commission began a rulemaking to
streamline, consolidate, and harmonize rules governing earth stations
in motion (ESIMs) used to provide satellite-based services on ships,
airplanes and vehicles communicating with geostationary-satellite orbit
(GSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS) satellite systems. In September
2018, the Commission adopted rules governing communications of ESIMs
with GSO satellites. These rules addressed communications in the
conventional C-, Ku-, and Ka-bands, as well as portions of the extended
Ku-band. At the same time, the Commission also released a Further
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that sought comment on allowing ESIMs to
operate in all of the frequency bands in which earth stations at fixed
locations operating in GSO FSS satellite networks can be blanket-
licensed. Specifically, comment was sought on expanding the frequencies
available for communications of ESIMs with GSO FSS satellites to
include the following frequency bands: 10.7-10.95 GHz, 11.2-11.45 GHz,
17.8-18.3 GHz, 18.8-19.3 GHz, 19.3-19.4 GHz, 19.6-19.7 GHz (space-to-
Earth); and 28.6-29.1 GHz (Earth-to-space).
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/16/17 82 FR 27652
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/30/17 .......................
OMB-approval for Information 08/28/18 .......................
Collection of R&O Comment Period
End.
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK84
288. Facilitating the Communications of Earth Stations in Motion With
Non-Geostationary Orbit Space Stations: IB Docket No. 18-315 [3060-
AK89]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303;
47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: In November 2018, the Commission adopted a notice of
proposed rulemaking that proposed to expand the scope of the
Commission's rules governing ESIMs operations to cover communications
with NGSO FSS satellites. Comment was sought on establishing a
regulatory framework for communications of ESIMs with NGSO FSS
satellites that would be analogous to that which exists for ESIMs
communicating with GSO FSS satellites. In this context, comment was
sought on: (1) allowing ESIMs to communicate in many of the same
conventional Ku-band, extended Ku-band, and Ka-band frequencies that
were allowed for communications of ESIMs with GSO FSS satellites (with
the exception of the 18.6-18.8 GHz and 29.25-29.5 GHz frequency bands);
(2) extending blanket licensing to ESIMs communicating with NGSO
satellites; and (3) revisions to specific provisions in the
Commission's rules to implement these changes. The specific frequency
bands for communications of ESIMs with NGOS FSS satellites on which
comment was sought are as follows: 10.7-11.7 GHz; 11.7-12.2 GHz; 14.0-
14.5 GHz; 17.8-18.3 GHz; 18.3-18.6 GHz; 18.8-19.3 GHz; 19.3-19.4 GHz;
19.6-19.7 GHz; 19.7-20.2 GHz; 28.35-28.6 GHz; 28.6-29.1 GHz; and 29.5-
30.0 GHz.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/28/18 83 FR 67180
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/13/19 .......................
R&O................................. 07/24/20 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Cindy Spiers, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1593, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK89
289. Space Innovation; Mitigation of Orbital Debris in the New Space
Age: IB Docket Nos. 18-313, 22-271 [3060-AK90]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47
U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 308; 47 U.S.C. 309;
47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C.
605; 47 U.S.C. 721
Abstract: The Commission's current orbital debris rules were first
adopted in 2004. Since then, significant changes have occurred in
satellite technologies and market conditions, particularly in Low Earth
Orbit, i.e., below 2000 kilometers altitude. These changes include the
increasing use of lower cost small satellites and proposals to deploy
large constellations of non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO)
systems, some involving thousands of satellites.
The NPRM proposes changes to improve disclosure of debris
mitigation plans. The NPRM also makes proposals and seeks comment
related to satellite disposal reliability and methodology, appropriate
deployment altitudes in low-Earth-orbit, and on-orbit lifetime, with a
particular focus on large NGSO satellite constellations. Other aspects
of the NPRM include new rule proposals for geostationary orbit
satellite (GSO) license term extension requests, and consideration of
disclosure requirements related to several emerging technologies and
new types of commercial operations, including rendezvous and proximity
operations.
The Report and Order in this proceeding adopted a number of these
proposals. In addition a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking sought
comment on topics such as collision risk and casualty risk for multi-
satellite systems, de-orbit timelines, maneuverability requirements,
and indemnification and post mission disposal bond issues. The
Commission issued a Second Report and Order adopting a 5-year de-orbit
timeframe for satellites ending their missions in or passing through
the low-Earth Orbit region.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/19/19 84 FR 4742
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/06/19 .......................
R&O................................. 08/25/20 85 FR 52422
FNPRM............................... 08/25/20 85 FR 52455
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 10/09/20 .......................
Second R&O.......................... 09/29/22 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Alexandra Horn, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-1376, Email: [email protected].
[[Page 48657]]
RIN: 3060-AK90
290. Process Reform for Executive Branch Review of Certain FCC
Applications and Petitions Involving Foreign Ownership (IB Docket No.
16-155) [3060-AL12]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(l); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 214;
47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 413; 47 U.S.C.
34-39; E.O. 10530; 3 U.S.C. 301
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission considers rules and
procedures that streamline and improve the timeliness and transparency
of the process by which the Commission refers certain applications and
petitions for declaratory ruling to the Executive Branch agencies for
assessment of any national security, law enforcement, foreign policy or
trade policy issues related to foreign investment in the applicants and
petitioners. The Commission, in this proceeding, also adopted Standard
Questions that certain applicants with reportable foreign ownership
will be required to answer as part of the Executive Branch review
process of their applications.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/24/16 81 FR 46870
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/02/16 .......................
Public Notice....................... 04/27/20 85 FR 29914
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 09/02/20 .......................
Report & Order...................... 10/01/20 85 FR 76360
Public Notice....................... 12/30/20 85 FR 12312
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 04/19/21 .......................
Secord Report and Order Adopted..... 09/30/21 86 FR 68428
Second R&O Released................. 10/01/21 86 FR 68428
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Arthur T. Lechtman, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1465, Fax: 202 418-0175, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL12
291. Parts 2 and 25 To Enable GSO FSS in the 17.3-17.8 GHz Band,
Modernize Rules for 17/24 GHz BSS Space Stations, and Establish Off-
Axis Uplink Power Limits for Extended Ka-Band FSS (IB Doc. No. 20-330)
[3060-AL28]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C.
309(j)
Abstract: This item addresses the addition of an allocation in the
17.3-17.7 GHz and 17.7-17.8 GHz bands to the fixed-satellite service in
the space-to-Earth direction. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
proposes to add these allocations to the U.S. Table of Frequency
Allocations (non-Federal), and proposes modification of existing
technical rules to prevent harmful interference between services in
these bands.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/01/21 86 FR 7660
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/03/21 .......................
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 03/18/21 .......................
R&O................................. 09/03/22 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Stephanie Neville, Attorney Advisor, International
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1672, Email: [email protected].
Sean O'More, Attorney Advisor, International Bureau, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
245 418-2453, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL28
292. Revising Spectrum Sharing Rules for Non-Geostationary Orbit,
Fixed-Satellite Service Systems: IB Docket No. 21-456 [3060-AL41]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303;
47 U.S.C. 308(b); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) seeks comment
on revisions to the spectrum sharing requirements among non-
geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS)
systems. The NPRM proposes that the Commission's existing spectrum
sharing mechanism for NGSO FSS systems will be limited to those systems
approved in the same processing round. The NPRM also proposes to adopt
a rule providing that later-round NGSO FSS systems will have to protect
earlier-round systems, and invites comment on how to define such
protection. In addition, the NPRM seeks comment on whether to sunset,
after a period of time, the interference protection afforded to an NGSO
FSS system because of its processing round status.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/24/22 87 FR 3481
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/25/22 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0803, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL41
293. Expediting Initial Processing of Satellite and Earth
Station Applications; Space Innovation (IB Docket Nos. 22-411 AND 22-
271) [3060-AL51]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 157(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and
308(b)
Abstract: In December 2022, the Commission adopted a Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking to seek comment on changes to its rules, policies,
or practices to facilitate the acceptance for filing of satellite and
earth station applications under 47 CFR part 25. The Commission
proposed to revise a procedural rule to formally allow consideration of
satellite for applications and petitions that request waiver of the
Table of Frequency Allocations to operate in a frequency band without
an international allocation. The Commission also sought comment on
typical processing timeframes for satellite applications.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/17/23 88 FR 2590
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/03/23 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0803, Email: [email protected].
[[Page 48658]]
RIN: 3060-AL51
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Media Bureau
Long-Term Actions
294. Revision of EEO Rules and Policies (MM Docket No. 98-204) [3060-
AH95]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 257; 47
U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 334; 47
U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 554
Abstract: FCC authority to govern Equal Employment Opportunity
(EEO) responsibilities of cable television operators was codified in
the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984. This authority was
extended to television broadcast licensees and other multi-channel
video programming distributors (MVPDs) in the Cable and Television
Consumer Protection Act of 1992. In the Second Report and Order, the
FCC adopted new EEO rules and policies. This action was in response to
a decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia
Circuit that found prior EEO rules unconstitutional. The Third Notice
of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) requested comment as to the applicability
of the EEO rules to part-time employees. The Third Report and Order
adopted revised forms for broadcast station and MVPD Annual Employment
Reports. The 2021 NPRM sought to update the existing record.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/14/02 67 FR 1704
Second R&O and Third NPRM........... 01/07/03 68 FR 670
Correction.......................... 01/13/03 68 FR 1657
Fourth NPRM......................... 06/23/04 69 FR 34986
Third R&O........................... 06/23/04 69 FR 34950
FNPRM............................... 08/31/21 86 FR 48610
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 09/30/21 .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis
Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street
NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email:
[email protected].
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-2757, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AH95
295. Establishment of Rules for Digital Low-Power Television,
Television Translator, and Television Booster Stations (MB Docket No.
03-185) [3060-AI38]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 336
Abstract: This proceeding initiated the digital television
conversion for low-power television (LPTV) and television translator
stations. The rules and policies adopted as a result of this proceeding
provide the framework for these stations' conversion from analog to
digital broadcasting.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 09/26/03 68 FR 55566
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/25/03 .......................
R&O................................. 11/29/04 69 FR 69325
FNPRM and MO&O...................... 10/18/10 75 FR 63766
2nd R&O............................. 07/07/11 76 FR 44821
3rd NPRM............................ 11/28/14 79 FR 70824
NPRM Comment Period End............. 12/29/14 .......................
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 01/12/15 .......................
3rd R&O............................. 02/01/16 81 FR 5041
4th NPRM............................ 02/01/16 81 FR 5086
Comment Period End.................. 02/22/16 .......................
NPRM................................ 12/23/19 84 FR 70489
5th NPRM............................ 06/17/22 87 FR 36440
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Shaun Maher, Attorney, Video Division, Federal
Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L. Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2324, Fax: 202 418-2827, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AI38
296. Authorizing Permissive Use of the ``Next Generation'' Broadcast
Television Standard (GN Docket No. 16-142) [3060-AK56]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47
U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47
U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 325(b); 47 U.S.C. 336; 47 U.S.C. 399(b); 47
U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 534; 47 U.S.C. 535
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to authorize
television broadcasters to use the ``Next Generation'' ATSC 3.0
broadcast television transmission standard on a voluntary, market-
driven basis, while they continue to deliver current-generation digital
television broadcast service to their viewers. In the Report and Order,
the Commission adopted rules to afford broadcasters flexibility to
deploy ATSC 3.0-based transmissions, while minimizing the impact on,
and costs to, consumers and other industry stakeholders.
In the 2nd R&O, the Commission provided additional guidance to
broadcasters deploying Next Gen TV.
In 2021, the Commission made a technical modification to the rules
governing the use of a distribution transmission system by a television
station to account for deployment of ATSC 3.0. Further, the Commission
released an FNPRM that sought comment on rule changes designed to
preserve over-the-air viewers access to the widest possible range of
television programming. The 3rd FNPRM sought comment on the state of
the Next Gen TV transition.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/10/17 82 FR 13285
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/09/17 .......................
FNPRM............................... 12/20/17 82 FR 60350
R&O................................. 02/02/18 83 FR 4998
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 02/20/18 .......................
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End...... 03/20/18 .......................
NPRM................................ 05/13/20 85 FR 28586
2nd R&O Order on Recon.............. 07/17/20 85 FR 43478
Report & Order...................... 04/22/21 86 FR 21217
FNPRM............................... 12/13/21 86 FR 70793
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 02/11/22 .......................
3rd FNPRM........................... 07/07/22 87 FR 40464
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Ty Bream, Attorney Advisor, Industry Analysis Div.,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-0644, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK56
297. 2018 Quadrennial Regulatory Review of the Commission's Broadcast
Ownership Rules (MB Docket 18-349) [3060-AK77]
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
[[Page 48659]]
Abstract: Section 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996
requires the Commission to review its broadcast ownership rules every 4
years and to determine whether any such rules are necessary in the
public interest as the result of competition. The rules subject to
review in the 2018 quadrennial review are the Local Radio Ownership
Rule, the Local Television Ownership Rule, and the Dual Network Rule.
The Commission also sought comment on potential pro-diversity proposals
including extending cable procurement requirements to broadcasters,
adopting formulas aimed at creating media ownership limits that promote
diversity, and developing a model for market-based, tradeable diversity
credits to serve as an alternative method for setting ownership limits.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/28/19 84 FR 6741
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis
Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street
NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email:
[email protected].
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-2757, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK77
298. Equal Employment Opportunity Enforcement (MB Docket 19-177) [3060-
AK86]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j);
47 U.S.C. 334; 47 U.S.C. 554
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks comment on ways
in which it can make improvements to equal employment opportunity (EEO)
compliance and enforcement.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/22/19 84 FR 35063
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, IAD, Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK86
299. Duplication of Programming on Commonly Owned Radio Stations (MB
Docket No. 19-310) [3060-AL19]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j) and
303(r); 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission eliminated the radio
duplication rule. The rule bars same-service (AM or FM) commercial
radio stations from duplicating more than 25% of their total hours of
programming in an average broadcast week if the stations have 50% or
more contour overlap and are commonly owned or subject to a time
brokerage agreement. Petitions for reconsideration are pending.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 12/23/19 84 FR 70485
Report & Order...................... 10/22/20 85 FR 67303
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis
Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street
NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email:
[email protected].
Brendan Holland, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-2757, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL19
300. Sponsorship Identification Requirements for Foreign Government-
Provided Programming (MB Docket No. 20-299) [3060-AL20]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 154 ; 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C.
301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 309 ; 47 U.S.C. 310; 47 U.S.C. 334; 47
U.S.C. 336 and 339
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission modifies its rules to
require specific disclosure requirements for broadcast programming that
is paid for, or provided by a foreign government or its representative.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 11/24/20 85 FR 74955
R&O................................. 06/17/21 86 FR 32221
Second NPRM......................... 11/17/22 87 FR 68960
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, IAD, Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-1523, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL20
301. FM Broadcast Booster Stations (MB Docket 20-401) [3060-AL21]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154 and 157; 47 U.S.C.
301 to 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 309; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 319; 47 U.S.C. 324
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission proposes to amend its
rules to enable FM broadcasters to use FM booster stations to air geo-
targeted content (e.g., news, weather, and advertisements) independent
of the signals of its primary station within different portions of the
primary station's protected service contour for a limited period of
time during the broadcast hour.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/11/21 86 FR 1909
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Al Shuldiner, Chief, Audio Div., Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-2700, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL21
302. Amendment of Part 73 Rules To Update Television and Class
A Television Broadcast Station Rules, and Rules Applicable to All
Broadcast Stations (MB Docket No. 22-227) [3060-AL50]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 154; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47
U.S.C. 307 to 308; 47 U.S.C. 309 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 319; 47
U.S.C. 336
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission proposes to adopt
revisions to rules in part 0, part 27, subparts E, H, I, J, and L of
part 73, and certain parts of parts 74 and 90 in light of the fact that
all television services have ceased analog operations. The Commission
proposes to eliminate entire rules and
[[Page 48660]]
portions of rules that provide for analog-to-analog and analog-to-
digital interference protection requirements and other analog operating
requirements. The Commission proposes to amend section headings and
language in rules to remove references to DTV, digital, and analog
television service, as these distinctions are no longer necessary. The
Commission also propose to delete outdated rules that are no longer
valid given changes in Commission-adopted policy. The Commission also
proposes other non-substantive, technical revisions. The Commission
also proposes to update rules to reference the current designation for
form numbers (e.g., FCC Form 2100) and by requiring electronic filing
in the Commission's Licensing and Management System. The Commission
also propose to make corrections or updates, inter alia, to section
headings, spelling, contact information, and rule cross-references, or
to language inadvertently omitted from a rule.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/09/23 88 FR 8636
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Joyce Bernstein, Attorney Advisor, Media Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-1647, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL50
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Office of Managing Director
Long-Term Actions
303. Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees [3060-AK64]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 159
Abstract: Section 9 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended
(47 U.S.C. 159), requires the Federal Communications Commission to
recover the cost of its activities by assessing and collecting annual
regulatory fees from beneficiaries of the activities.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/06/17 82 FR 26019
R&O................................. 09/22/17 82 FR 44322
NPRM................................ 06/14/18 83 FR 27846
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/21/18 .......................
R&O................................. 09/18/18 83 FR 47079
NPRM................................ 06/05/19 84 FR 26234
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/07/19 .......................
R&O................................. 09/26/19 84 FR 50890
NPRM................................ 05/08/20 85 FR 32256
R&O................................. 06/22/20 85 FR 37364
NPRM................................ 05/13/21 86 FR 26262
R&O................................. 05/17/21 86 FR 26677
NPRM................................ 09/21/21 86 FR 52429
R&O................................. 09/22/21 86 FR 52742
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/21/21 .......................
NPRM................................ 06/28/22 87 FR 38588
Report & Order...................... 09/14/22 87 FR 56494
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Roland Helvajian, Office of the Managing Director,
Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-0444, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK64
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau
Long-Term Actions
304. Wireless E911 Location Accuracy Requirements: PS Docket No. 07-114
[3060-AJ52]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 332
Abstract: This rulemaking is related to the proceedings in which
the FCC previously acted to improve the quality of all emergency
services. Wireless carriers must provide specific automatic location
information in connection with 911 emergency calls to Public Safety
Answering Points (PSAPs). Wireless licensees must satisfy enhanced 911
location accuracy standards at either a county-based or a PSAP-based
geographic level.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/20/07 72 FR 33948
R&O................................. 02/14/08 73 FR 8617
Public Notice....................... 09/25/08 73 FR 55473
FNPRM; NOI.......................... 11/02/10 75 FR 67321
Public Notice....................... 11/18/09 74 FR 59539
2nd R&O............................. 11/18/10 75 FR 70604
Second NPRM......................... 08/04/11 76 FR 47114
Second NPRM Comment Period End...... 11/02/11 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 04/28/11 76 FR 23713
NPRM, 3rd R&O, and 2nd FNPRM........ 09/28/11 76 FR 59916
3rd FNPRM........................... 03/28/14 79 FR 17820
Order Extending Comment Period...... 06/10/14 79 FR 33163
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 07/14/14 .......................
Public Notice (Release Date)........ 11/20/14 .......................
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 12/17/14 .......................
4th R&O............................. 03/04/15 80 FR 11806
Final Rule.......................... 08/03/15 80 FR 45897
Order Granting Waiver............... 07/10/17 .......................
NPRM................................ 09/26/18 83 FR 54180
4th NPRM............................ 03/18/19 84 FR 13211
5th R&O............................. 01/16/20 85 FR 2660
5th NPRM............................ 01/16/20 85 FR 2683
5th NPRM Comment Period End......... 03/16/20 .......................
6th R&O and Order on Recon.......... 08/28/20 85 FR 53234
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy & Licensing
Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-2062, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ52
305. Improving Outage Reporting for Submarine Cables and Enhancing
Submarine Cable Outage Data; GN Docket No. 15-206 [3060-AK39]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 34 to 39;
47 U.S.C. 301
Abstract: This proceeding takes steps toward assuring the
reliability and resiliency of submarine cables, a critical piece of the
Nation's communications infrastructure, by proposing to require
submarine cable licensees to report to the Commission when outages
occur and communications are disrupted. The Commission's intent is to
enhance national security and emergency preparedness by these actions.
In December 2019, the Commission adopted an Order on Reconsideration
that modifies the requirement for submarine cable licensees to report
outages to the Commission.
Timetable:
[[Page 48661]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK39
306. Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning
Disruptions to Communications: (PS Docket No. 15-80, 18-336, 23-5)
[3060-AK40]
Legal Authority: sec. 1, 4(i), 4(j), 4(o), 251(e)(3), 254, 301,
303(b), 303(g), 303(r), 307, 309(a), 309(j); 316, 332, 403, 615a-1, and
615c of Pub. L. 73-416, 4 Stat. 1064, as amended; and sec. 706 of Pub.
L. 104-104, 110 Stat. 56; 47 U.S.C. 151, 154(i)-(j) & (o), 251(e)(3),
254, 301, 303(b), 303(g), 303(r), 307; 309(a), 309(j), 316, 332, 403,
615a-1, 615c, and 1302, unless otherwise noted
Abstract: The 2004 Report and Order (R&O) extended the Commission's
communication disruptions reporting rules to non-wireline carriers and
streamlined reporting through a new electronic template (see docket ET
Docket 04-35). In 2015, this proceeding, PS Docket 15-80, was opened to
amend the original communications disruption reporting rules from 2004
in order to reflect technology transitions observed throughout the
telecommunications sector. The Commission seeks to further study the
possibility to share the reporting database information and access with
State and other Federal entities. In May 2016, the Commission released
a Report and Order, FNPRM, and Order on Reconsideration (see also
Dockets 11-82 and 04-35). The R&O adopted rules to update the part 4
requirements to reflect technology transitions. The FNPRM sought
comment on sharing information in the reporting database. Comments and
replies were received by the Commission in August and September 2016.
In March 2020, the Commission adopted a Second Further Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking in PS Docket No. 15-80 that proposed a framework to
provide state and federal agencies with access to outage information to
improve their situational awareness while preserving the
confidentiality of this data, including proposals to: provide direct,
read-only access to NORS and DIRS filings to qualified agencies of the
50 states, the District of Columbia, Tribal nations, territories, and
federal government; allow these agencies to share NORS and DIRS
information with other public safety officials that reasonably require
NORS and DIRS information to prepare for and respond to disasters;
allow participating agencies to publicly disclose NORS or DIRS filing
information that is aggregated and anonymized across at least four
service providers; condition a participating agency's direct access to
NORS and DIRS filings on their agreement to treat the filings as
confidential and not disclose them absent a finding by the Commission
that allows them to do so; and establish an application process that
would grant agencies access to NORS and DIRS after those agencies
certify to certain requirements related to maintaining confidentiality
of the data and the security of the databases. In March 2021, the
Commission adopted the proposed information sharing framework with some
modifications in a Second Report and Order. In April 2021, in a Notice
of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposed to codify a rule
adopted in 2016 that exempts satellite and terrestrial wireless
providers from reporting outages that potentially affect special
offices and facilities, as defined in Commission rules. This proceeding
addresses the Commission's efforts to improve the utility of its
efforts to track network outages and disruptions and does not promote
the administration's specified priorities.
In May 2021, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)
filed a Petition for Reconsideration (PFR) requesting that the
Commission reconsider its decision in the Second Report and Order to
maintain the presumption of confidentiality applied to NORS and DIRS
filings. The Commission sought comment on the PFR's requests.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM, 2nd R&O, Order on Recon....... 06/16/15 80 FR 34321
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/31/15
R&O................................. 07/12/16 81 FR 45055
FNPRM, 1 Part 4 R&O, Order on Recon. 08/11/16 81 FR 45059
Order Denying Reply Comment Deadline 09/08/16
Extension Request.
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 09/12/16
Announcement of Effective Date for 06/22/17 82 FR 28410
Rule Changes in R&O.
Announcement of Effective Date for 06/22/17 82 FR 28410
Rule Changes in R&O.
Second Further NPRM................. 02/28/20 85 FR 17818
Second Further NPRM Comment Period 06/01/20
End.
2nd R&O............................. 04/29/21 86 FR 22796
3rd NPRM............................ 06/30/21 86 FR 34679
CPUC PFR Comment Period End......... 08/23/21 86 FR 40801
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and
Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7790, Email:
[email protected].
Saswat Misra, Attorney-Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0944, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK40
307. New Part 4 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Disruptions to
Communications; ET Docket No. 04-35 [3060-AK41]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154 and 155; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C.
251; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 316
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
[[Page 48662]]
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 07/02/10
Interconnected VOIP Service
Providers.
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 09/08/16
File Reply Comments.
Announcement of Effective Date for 06/22/17 82 FR 28410
Rule Changes in R&O.
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and
Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7790, Email:
[email protected].
Saswat Misra, Attorney-Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0944, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK41
308. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): PS Docket No. 15-91, 15-94, 22-
329 [3060-AK54]
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 109-347, title VI; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47
U.S.C. 154(i)
Abstract: This proceeding was initiated to improve Wireless
Emergency Alerts (WEA) messaging, ensure that WEA alerts reach only
those individuals to whom they are relevant, and establish an end-to-
end testing program based on advancements in technology.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 11/19/15 80 FR 77289
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/13/16
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 02/12/16
Order............................... 11/01/16 81 FR 75710
FNPRM............................... 11/08/16 81 FR 78539
Comment Period End.................. 12/08/16
Petition for Recon.................. 12/19/16 81 FR 91899
Order on Recon...................... 12/04/17 82 FR 57158
2nd R&O and 2nd Order on Recon...... 02/28/18 83 FR 8619
Public Notice....................... 04/26/18 83 FR 18257
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 05/29/18
Public Notice Reply Comment Period 06/11/18
End.
FNPRM............................... 05/20/22 87 FR 30857
NPRM................................ 10/27/22 87 FR 71539
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: James Wiley, Deputy Division Chief, Public Safety
and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1678, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK54
309. 911 Fee Diversion Rulemaking: PS Docket Nos. 20-291, 09-14 [3060-
AL31]
Legal Authority: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, Pub. L.
116-260, Division FF, title 1X, sec. 902, Don't Break Up the T-Band Act
of 2020 (sec. 902)
Abstract: In 2020, Congress adopted the ``Don't Break Up the T-Band
Act'' (section 902) to help address the diversion of 911 fees by states
and other jurisdictions for purposes unrelated to 911. Among other
requirements, Congress mandated that the Commission should issue final
rules designating the uses of 911 fees by states and taxing
jurisdictions that constitute 911 fee diversion for purposes of 47
U.S.C. 615a-1, as amended by section 902. The Commission initiated this
proceeding and issued new rules at 47 CFR 9.21-9.26 that: (1) clarify
the purposes and functions for which expenditures of 911 fees are
acceptable and which would be considered unacceptable and constitute
diversion, with illustrative, non-exhaustive examples of each; (2)
establish a declaratory ruling process for providing further guidance
to states and taxing jurisdictions on fee diversion issues; and (3)
codify the specific obligations and restrictions that section 902
imposes on states and taxing jurisdictions, including those that engage
in diversion as defined by the Commission's rules.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Inquiry................... 10/02/20
NOI Comment Period End.............. 11/02/20
NOI Reply Comment Period End........ 12/02/20
NPRM................................ 02/17/21 86 FR 12399
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/23/21
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 04/02/21 86 FR 12399
Report & Order...................... 06/25/21 86 FR 45892
R&O Erratum......................... 08/12/21 86 FR 45892
Petition for Recon.................. 12/22/21 86 FR 72546
Oppositions to Petition for Recon... 01/06/22
Replies to Oppositions to Petition 01/18/22
for Recon.
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy & Licensing
Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal
Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-2062, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL31
[[Page 48663]]
310. Resilient Networks, Amendments to Part 4 of the Commission's Rules
Concerning Disruptions to Communications; PS Docket No. 21-346 [3060-
AL43]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i)-(j); 47 U.S.C.
154(n)-(o); 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 202; 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 218;
47 U.S.C. 251(e)(3); 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(b); 47
U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309(a); 47
U.S.C. 309(j); 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 403; . . .
Abstract: In October 2021, the Commission adopted a Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to investigate ways to improve the
reliability and resiliency of communications networks during
emergencies and ways to ensure that communications services remain
operational when disasters strike. The NPRM sought comment on: (i)
potential improvements to the voluntary Wireless Resiliency Cooperative
Framework (Framework), including evaluating what triggers its
activation, its scope of participants, whether existing Framework
elements can be strengthened, any gaps that need to be addressed, and
whether the public would benefit from codifying some or all of the
Framework, (ii) ways to enhance the information available to the
Commission through Network Outage Reporting System (NORS) and Disaster
Information Reporting System (DIRS) during disasters and network
outages to improve situational awareness, and (iii) communications
resiliency strategies for power outages, including improved
coordination between communications service providers and power
companies and deploying onsite backup power or other alternative
measures to reduce the frequency, duration, or severity of power-
related disruptions to communications services. In June 2022, the
Commission adopted a Report & Order (R&O) and Further Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) following up on and further addressing
matters related to the Framework. The R&O introduced the MDRI, which
largely codifies the Framework's five substantive provisions as
mandatory, extended the reach of these provisions to all facilities-
based mobile wireless providers, expanded the real-world criteria that
trigger activation of the MDRI (as compared to the Framework) and
introduced new provisions requiring providers to test their roaming
capabilities and report on the performance of their implementation of
the MDRI to the Commission after disaster events. The FNPRM examined
whether and how the new reporting requirement can be standardized to
ensure that the Commission obtains vital and actionable information on
the performance of providers' implementation of the MDRI in the
aftermath of exigency, while also minimizing associated burdens.This
proceeding addresses network reliability in the context of public
safety and does not promote the administration's specified priorities.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/01/21 86 FR 61103
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/14/22
FNPRM............................... 06/27/22 87 FR 59379
R&O................................. 06/27/22 87 FR 59329
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 10/31/22
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End...... 11/29/22
Petition for Reconsideration........ 10/31/22
Public Notice Comment............... 12/02/22 87 FR 7102
Extends Deadline to File Replies.... 12/19/22 87 FR 79263
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Public Safety and
Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7790, Email:
[email protected].
Saswat Misra, Attorney-Advisor, Public Safety and Homeland Security
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0944, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL43
311. Location-Based Routing for Wireless 911 Calls (P.S.
Docket 18-64) [3060-AL52]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152(a); 47 U.S.C. 154(i);
47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 222; 47 U.S.C.
251(e); 47 U.S.C. 301 to 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C.
316 and 332; 47 U.S.C. 615; 47 U.S.C. 615a; 47 U.S.C. 615b; 47 U.S.C.
615c
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Federal Communications Commission
proposes rules to more precisely route wireless 911 calls and texts to
Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), which can result in faster
response times during emergencies. Wireless 911 calls have historically
been routed to PSAPs based on the location of the cell tower that
handles the call. Sometimes, however, the 911 call is routed to the
wrong PSAP because the cell tower is not in the same jurisdiction as
the 911 caller. This can happen, for instance, when an emergency call
is placed near a county border. These misrouted 911 calls must be
transferred from one PSAP to another, which consumes time and resources
and can cause confusion and delay in emergency response. The Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposes to require wireless and covered
text providers to deploy technology that supports location-based
routing, a method that relies on precise information about the location
of the wireless caller's device, on some networks and to use location-
based routing to route 911 voice calls and texts originating on those
networks when caller location is accurate and timely. In addition, the
NPRM proposes to require CMRS and covered text providers to deliver 911
calls, texts, and associated routing information in internet Protocol
(IP) format upon request of certain 911 authorities.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/17/23 88 FR 2565
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/16/23
Reply Comments Due.................. 03/20/23
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy and Licensing
Div, PSHSB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2062, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL52
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau
Long-Term Actions
312. Amendment of Parts 1, 2, 22, 24, 27, 90, and 95 of the
Commission's Rules To Improve Wireless Coverage Through the Use of
Signal Boosters (WT Docket No. 10-4) [3060-AJ87]
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)
[[Page 48664]]
Abstract: This action adopts new technical, operational, and
registration requirements for signal boosters. It creates two classes
of signal boosters--consumer and industrial--with distinct regulatory
requirements for each, thereby establishing a two-step transition
process for equipment certification for both consumer and industrial
signal boosters sold and marketed in the United States.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/10/11 76 FR 26983
R&O................................. 04/11/13 78 FR 21555
Petition for Reconsideration........ 06/06/13 78 FR 34015
Order on Reconsideration............ 11/08/14 79 FR 70790
FNPRM............................... 11/28/14 79 FR 70837
2nd R&O and 2nd FNPRM............... 03/23/18 83 FR 17131
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Morgan Mendenhall, Attorney Advisor, Wireless
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0154, Email: [email protected].
Jaclyn Rosen, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless
Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-0154, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ87
313. Promoting Technological Solutions To Combat Wireless Contraband
Device Use in Correctional Facilities; GN Docket No. 13-111 [3060-AK06]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C.
154(j); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(a); 47 U.S.C. 303(b); 47 U.S.C.
307 to 310; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 302(a)
Abstract: In the 2017 Report and Order, 82 FR 22742, the Commission
addressed the problem of illegal use of contraband wireless devices by
inmates in correctional facilities by streamlining the process of
deploying contraband wireless device interdiction systems (CIS)--
systems that use radio communications signals requiring Commission
authorization--in correctional facilities. In particular, the
Commission eliminated certain filing requirements and provides for
immediate approval of the lease applications needed to operate these
systems. In the 2017 Further Notice, 82 FR 22780, the Commission sought
comment on a process for wireless providers to disable contraband
wireless devices once they have been identified. The Commission also
sought comment on additional methods and technologies that might prove
successful in combating contraband device use in correctional
facilities, and on various other proposals related to the authorization
process for CISs and their deployment.
In the Second Report and Order, the Commission takes further steps
to facilitate the deployment and viability of technological solutions
used to combat contraband wireless devices in correctional facilities.
The Second Report and Order adopts a framework requiring the disabling
of contraband wireless devices detected in correctional facilities upon
satisfaction of certain criteria, and the Commission addresses issues
involving oversight, wireless provider liability, and treatment of 911
calls. The Second Report and Order further adopts rules requiring
advance notice of certain wireless provider network changes to promote
and maintain contraband interdiction system effectiveness. In the
Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission takes
further steps to facilitate the deployment and viability of
technological solutions used to combat contraband wireless devices in
correctional facilities. The Second Further Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking seeks further comment on the relative effectiveness,
viability, and cost of additional technological solutions to combat
contraband phone use in correctional facilities previously identified
in the record.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/18/13 78 FR 36469
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/08/13
FNPRM............................... 05/18/17 82 FR 22780
R&O................................. 05/18/17 82 FR 22742
Final Rule Effective (Except for 06/19/17
Rules Requiring OMB Approval).
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 07/17/17
Final Rule Effective for 47 CFR 10/20/17 82 FR 48773
1.9020(n), 1.9030(m), 1.9035 (o),
and 20.23(a).
Final Rule Effective for 47 CFR 02/12/18
1.902(d)(8), 1.9035(d)(4),
20.18(a), and 20.18(r).
2nd FNPRM........................... 08/13/21 86 FR 44681
2nd R&O............................. 08/13/21 86 FR 44635
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 09/13/21
Final Rules Effective (except for 09/13/21
those requiring OMB approval).
Reply Comment Period End............ 10/12/21
Final Rule Effective................ 05/03/22 87 FR 26139
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa Conway, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Div.,
Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2887, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK06
314. Promoting Investment in the 3550-3700 MHz Band; GN Docket No. 17-
258 [3060-AK12]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C.
154(j) ; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307(e); 47
U.S.C. 316
Abstract: The Report and Order and Second Further Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) adopted by the Commission established a new
Citizens Broadband Radio Service for shared wireless broadband use of
the 3550 to 3700 MHz band. The Citizens Broadband Radio Service is
governed by a three-tiered spectrum authorization framework to
accommodate a variety of commercial uses on a shared basis with
incumbent Federal and non-Federal users of the band. Access and
operations will be managed by a dynamic spectrum access system. The
three tiers are: Incumbent Access, Priority Access, and General
Authorized Access. Rules governing the Citizens Broadband Radio Service
are found in part 96 of the Commission's rules.
The Order on Reconsideration and Second Report and Order addressed
several Petitions for Reconsideration submitted in response to the
Report and Order and resolved the outstanding issues raised in the
Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.
The 2017 NPRM sought comment on limited changes to the rules
governing Priority Access Licenses in the band, adjacent channel
emissions limits, and public release of base station registration
information.
The 2018 Report and Order addressed the issues raised in the 2017
NPRM and implemented changes rules governing
[[Page 48665]]
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK12
315. Updating Part 1 Competitive Bidding Rules (WT Docket No. 14-170)
[3060-AK28]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r);
47 U.S.C. 309(j); 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: This proceeding was initiated to revise some of the
Commission's general part 1 rules governing competitive bidding for
spectrum licenses to reflect changes in the marketplace, including the
challenges faced by new entrants, as well as to advance the statutory
directive to ensure that small businesses, rural telephone companies,
and businesses owned by members of minority groups and women are given
the opportunity to participate in the provision of spectrum-based
services. In July 2015, the Commission revised its competitive bidding
rules, specifically adopting revised requirements for eligibility for
bidding credits, a new rural service provider bidding credit, a
prohibition on joint bidding agreements and other changes.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 11/14/14 79 FR 68172
Public Notice....................... 03/16/15 80 FR 15715
Public Notice....................... 04/23/15 80 FR 22690
R&O................................. 09/18/15 80 FR 56764
Public Notice on Petitions for 11/10/15 80 FR 69630
Reconsideration.
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Kelly Quinn, Assistant Chief, Auctions and Spectrum
Access Division, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0660, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK28
316. Use of Spectrum Bands Above 24 GHz for Mobile Services--Spectrum
Frontiers: WT Docket 10-112 [3060-AK44]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C.
160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 225; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47 U.S.C. 301 and
302; 47 U.S.C. 302(a); 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C.
309 and 310; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C.
336; 47 U.S.C. 1302
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission adopted service rules
for licensing of mobile and other uses for millimeter wave (mmW) bands.
These high frequencies previously have been best suited for satellite
or fixed microwave applications; however, recent technological
breakthroughs have newly enabled advanced mobile services in these
bands, notably including very high speed and low latency services. This
action will help facilitate Fifth Generation mobile services and other
mobile services. In developing service rules for mmW bands, the
Commission will facilitate access to spectrum, develop a flexible
spectrum policy, and encourage wireless innovation.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/13/16 81 FR 1802
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/26/16
FNPRM............................... 08/24/16 81 FR 58269
Comment Period End.................. 09/30/16
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End...... 10/31/16
R&O................................. 11/14/16 81 FR 79894
R&O................................. 01/02/18 83 FR 37
FNPRM............................... 01/02/18 83 FR 85
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 01/23/18
R&O................................. 07/20/18 83 FR 34478
FNPRM............................... 07/20/18 83 FR 34520
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 09/28/18
R&O................................. 02/05/19 84 FR 1618
R&O................................. 05/01/19 84 FR 18405
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John Schauble, Deputy Chief, Broadband Division,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-0797, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK44
317. Expanding Flexible Use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band: GN Docket No.
18-122 [3060-AK76]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 153; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C
157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 301 to 304; 47 U.S.C. 307 to 310; 47
U.S.C. 1302; . . .
Abstract: In the 2020 Report and Order, the Commission adopted
rules to make 280 megahertz of mid-band spectrum available for flexible
use (plus a 20-megahertz guard band) throughout the contiguous United
States. Pursuant to the Report and Order, existing fixed satellite
service (FSS) and fixed services (FS) must relocate operations out of
the lower portion of the 3.7-4.0 GHz band. The Commission will issue
flexible use licenses in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band in the
contiguous United States via a system of competitive bidding. The
Commission established rules to govern the transition including
optional payments for satellite operators that choose to relocate on an
accelerated schedule and provide reimbursement to FSS operators and
their associated earth stations for reasonable expenses incurred to
facilitate the transition. The Report and Order also established
service and technical rules for the new flexible use licenses that will
be issued in the 3.7-3.98 GHz portion of the band. ``On December 8,
2020, the Commission began an auction of licenses in the 3.7-3.98 GHz
portion of the band. the winning bidders were announced on February 24,
2021''.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
[[Page 48666]]
Certifications and Data Filing 05/28/19
Deadline.
Public Notice....................... 06/03/19 84 FR 22514
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 07/03/19
Public Notice Reply Comment Period 07/18/19
End.
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: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK76
318. Amendment of the Commission's Rules To Promote Aviation Safety: WT
Docket No. 19-140 [3060-AK92]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 303; 307(e)
Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission regulates the
Aviation Radio Service, a family of services using dedicated spectrum
to enhance the safety of aircraft in flight, facilitate the efficient
movement of aircraft both in the air and on the ground, and otherwise
ensure the reliability and effectiveness of aviation communications.
Recent technological advances have prompted the Commission to open this
new rulemaking proceeding to ensure the timely deployment and use of
today's state-of-the-art safety-enhancing technologies. With this
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposes changes to its
part 87 Aviation Radio Service rules to support the deployment of more
advanced avionics technology, increase the efficient use of limited
spectrum resources, and generally improve aviation safety.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/02/19 84 FR 31542
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/03/19
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 09/30/19
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jeff Tobias, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1617, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK92
319. Implementation of State and Local Governments' Obligation To
Approve Certain Wireless Facility Modification Requests Under Section
6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012 (WT Docket No. 19-250) [3060-AL29]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. chs. 2, 5, 9, 13; 28 U.S.C. 2461, unless
otherwise noted.
Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks to reduce
regulatory barriers to wireless infrastructure deployment by further
streamlining the state and local government review process for
modifications to existing wireless infrastructure under section 6409(a)
of the Spectrum Act of 2012.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/02/20 85 FR 39859
Declaratory Ruling.................. 07/27/20 85 FR 45126
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/03/20
R&O................................. 12/03/20 85 FR 78005
Petition for Recon.................. 03/03/21 86 FR 12898
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Garnet Hanly, Division Chief, Wireless Bureau,
Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-0995, Email: [email protected].
Georgios Leris, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless
Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone:
202 418-1994, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL29
320. Expanding Flexible Use of the 12.2-12.7 GHz Band, et al., WT
Docket No. 20-443, et al. [3060-AL40]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152; 47 U.S.C. 153; 47
U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302;
47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 304; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C.
310; 47 U.S.C. 316
Abstract: The Commission seeks input on feasibility of allowing
mobile services in the 12.2-12.7 GHz band while protecting incumbents
from harmful interference.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/08/21 86 FR 13266
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/07/21
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 05/07/21
NPRM................................ 04/16/21 86 FR 20111
NPRM Extension Comment Period End... 05/07/21
NPRM Extension Reply Comment Period 06/07/21
End.
NPRM Denial of Further Extension of 05/27/21 86 FR 28520
Deadlines for Filing Comments and
Reply Comments.
NPRM................................ 06/22/21 86 FR 32669
NPRM Extension Reply Comment Period. 07/07/21
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Madelaine Maior, Assistant Division Chief,
Broadband Div., WTB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1466, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL40
321. Facilitating Shared Use in the 3100-3550 MHz Band [3060-
AL57]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C.
155(c) and 157; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 308; 47 U.S.C.
309 ; 47 U.S.C. 309(j)(3)(B) and 309(j)(4)(D); 47 U.S.C. 310 and 316;
47 U.S.C. 923(g) and 928; 47 U.S.C. 1502; Pub. L. 115-141, sec. 603;
Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 905
Abstract: In the 3.45 GHz Band Second R&O, the Commission adopted
rules to make 100 megahertz of mid-band spectrum available for flexible
use throughout the contiguous United States. To facilitate this goal,
the Commission previously had determined that secondary, nonfederal
radiolocation licensees in the band would be relocated to the 2.9-3.0
GHz band. In the 3.45 GHz Band Second R&O, the Commission further
determined that secondary, non-federal radiolocation authorizations
would sunset 180 days after new 3.45 GHz Service licenses are granted
in the band. On January 4, 2022, the auction for these new licenses
concluded and licenses were granted on May 4, 2022. The non-federal
radiolocation authorizations sunset on October 31, 2022.
Timetable:
[[Page 48667]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/22/20 85 FR 3579
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/23/20
Final Rule.......................... 10/09/20 85 FR 64062
Report & Order and FNPRM............ 10/21/20 85 FR 66888
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 11/20/20
Correction to Final Rule............ 11/03/20 85 FR 69515
Report & Order, Order on 04/07/21 86 FR 17920
Reconsideration and Order of
Proposed Modification.
Final Rule and Order................ 12/22/22 87 FR 78579
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Morgan Mendenhall, Attorney Advisor, Wireless
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0154, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL57
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
Wireline Competition Bureau
Long-Term Actions
322. Telecommunications Carriers' Use of Customer Proprietary Network
Information and Other Customer Information (CC Docket No. 96-115), Data
Breach Reporting Requirements (WC Docket No. 22-21) [3060-AG43]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 222; 47
U.S.C. 272; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: The Commission adopted rules implementing the new
statutory framework governing carrier use and disclosure of customer
proprietary network information (CPNI) created by section 222 of the
Communications Act of 1934, as amended. CPNI includes, among other
things, to whom, where, and when a customer places a call, as well as
the types of service offerings to which the customer subscribes and the
extent to which the service is used.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/28/96 61 FR 26483
Public Notice....................... 02/25/97 62 FR 8414
Second R&O and FNPRM................ 04/24/98 63 FR 20364
Order on Recon...................... 10/01/99 64 FR 53242
Final Rule, Announcement of 01/26/01 66 FR 7865
Effective Date.
Clarification Order and Second NPRM. 09/07/01 66 FR 50140
Third R&O and Third FNPRM........... 09/20/02 67 FR 59205
NPRM................................ 03/15/06 71 FR 13317
NPRM................................ 06/08/07 72 FR 31782
Final Rule, Announcement of 06/08/07 72 FR 31948
Effective Date.
Public Notice....................... 07/13/12 77 FR 35336
Final Rule.......................... 09/21/17 82 FR 44188
NPRM................................ 01/23/23 88 FR 3953
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/22/22
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 03/24/23
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa Kirkel, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline
Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline
Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202
418-7958, Fax: 202 418-1413, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AG43
323. Local Telephone Networks That LECs Must Make Available to
Competitors [3060-AH44]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: The Commission adopted rules applicable to incumbent
local exchange carriers (LECs) to permit competitive carriers to access
portions of the incumbent LECs' networks on an unbundled basis.
Unbundling allows competitors to lease portions of the incumbent LECs'
network to provide telecommunications services. These rules, adopted in
dockets CC 96-98, WC 01-338, and WC 04-313, are intended to accelerate
the development of local exchange competition.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Second FNPRM........................ 04/26/99 64 FR 20238
Fourth FNPRM........................ 01/14/00 65 FR 2367
Errata Third R&O and Fourth FNPRM... 01/18/00 65 FR 2542
Second Errata Third R&O and Fourth 01/18/00 65 FR 2542
FNPRM.
Supplemental Order.................. 01/18/00 65 FR 2542
Third R&O........................... 01/18/00 65 FR 2542
Correction.......................... 04/11/00 65 FR 19334
Supplemental Order Clarification.... 06/20/00 65 FR 38214
Public Notice....................... 02/01/01 66 FR 8555
Public Notice....................... 03/05/01 66 FR 18279
Public Notice....................... 04/10/01
Public Notice....................... 04/23/01
Public Notice....................... 05/14/01
NPRM................................ 01/15/02 67 FR 1947
Public Notice....................... 05/29/02
Public Notice....................... 08/01/02
Public Notice....................... 08/13/02
NPRM................................ 08/21/03 68 FR 52276
R&O and Order on Remand............. 08/21/03 68 FR 52276
Errata.............................. 09/17/03
Report.............................. 10/09/03 68 FR 60391
Order............................... 10/28/03
Order............................... 01/09/04
Public Notice....................... 01/09/04
Public Notice....................... 02/18/04
Order............................... 07/08/04
Second R&O.......................... 07/08/04 69 FR 43762
Order on Recon...................... 08/09/04 69 FR 54589
Interim Order....................... 08/20/04 69 FR 55111
NPRM................................ 08/20/04 69 FR 55128
Public Notice....................... 09/10/04
Public Notice....................... 09/13/04
Public Notice....................... 10/20/04
Order on Recon...................... 12/29/04 69 FR 77950
Order on Remand..................... 02/04/04
Public Notice....................... 04/25/05 70 FR 29313
Public Notice....................... 05/25/05 70 FR 34765
Declaratory Ruling.................. 05/26/11
NPRM................................ 01/06/20 85 FR 472
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/06/20
Report & Order...................... 01/08/21 86 FR 1636
-----------------------------------
Next Action Undetermined............ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Edward Krachmer, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline
Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline
Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202
418-1525, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AH44
324. Jurisdictional Separations [3060-AJ06]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47
U.S.C. 205; 47 U.S.C. 221(c); 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C.
410
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
[[Page 48668]]
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
418-7122, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AJ06
325. Rates for Inmate Calling Services; WC Docket No. 12-375;
Incarcerated People's Communications Services; Implementation of the
Martha Wright-Reed Act, WC Docket No. 23-62 [3060-AK08]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j);
47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 218; 47 U.S.C. 220; 47 U.S.C. 276; 47
U.S.C. 403; 47 CFR 64; Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable
Communications Act of 2022; Pub. L. 117-338, 136 Stat. 6156 ; 47 U.S.C.
152(b) and 153(1)(E); 47 U.S.C. 276(b)(1)(A) and (d)
Abstract: In the Second Report and Order, the Federal
Communications Commission (the Commission) adopted rule changes to
ensure that rates for both interstate and intrastate inmate calling
services (ICS) are fair, just, and reasonable limits on ancillary
service charges imposed by ICS providers. In the Second Report and
Order, the Commission set caps on all interstate and intrastate calling
rates for ICS, established a tiered rate structure based on the size
and type of facility being served, limited the types of ancillary
services that ICS providers may charge for and capped the charges for
permitted fees, banned flat-rate calling, facilitated access to ICS by
people with disabilities by requiring providers to offer free or
steeply discounted rates for calls using TTY, and imposed reporting and
certification requirements to facilitate continued oversight of the ICS
market. In the Third Further Notice portion of the item, the Commission
sought comment on ways to promote competition for ICS, video
visitation, and rates for international calls, and considered an array
of solutions to further address areas of concern in the ICS industry.
In an Order on Reconsideration, the Commission amended its rate caps
and the definition of ``mandatory tax or mandatory fee''.
On June 13, 2017, the D.C. Circuit vacated the rate caps adopted in
the Second Report and Order, as well as reporting requirements related
to video visitation. The court held that the Commission lacked
jurisdiction over intrastate ICS calls and that the rate caps the
Commission adopted for interstate calls were arbitrary and capricious.
The court also remanded the Commission's caps on ancillary fees. On
September 26, 2017, the court denied a petition for rehearing en banc.
On December 21, 2017, the court issued two separate orders: one
vacating the 2016 Order on Reconsideration insofar as it purported to
set rate caps on inmate calling services, and one dismissing as moot
challenges to the Commission's First Report and Order on ICS.
On February 4, 2020, the Commission's Wireline Competition Bureau
(WCB) released a Public Notice seeking to refresh the record on
ancillary service charges imposed in connection with ICS.
On August 6, 2020, the Commission adopted a Report and Order on
Remand and a Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking responding to
remands by the D.C. Circuit and proposing to comprehensively reform
rates and charges for the ICS within the Commission's jurisdiction. The
Report and Order on Remand found that the Commission's five permitted
ancillary service charges: (1) automated payment fees; (2) fees for
single-call and related services; (3) live agent fees; (4) paper bill/
statement fees; and (5) third-party financial transaction fees
generally, cannot be practically segregated between interstate and
intrastate inmate telephone calls, except in a limited number of cases.
Accordingly, the Commission prohibited ICS providers
[[Page 48669]]
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 ICS rules consistent with the D.C. Circuit's mandates to reflect
that the Commission's rate and fee caps on ICS apply only to interstate
and international inmate calling.
The Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposed to
substantially reduce the interstate rate cap for inmate telephone calls
from the current interim rate caps of $0.21 per minute for debit or
prepaid calls and $0.25 per minute for collect calls for all types of
correctional facilities, to permanent rate caps of $0.14 per minute for
all interstate calls from prisons and $0.16 for all interstate calls
from jails. The Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking also
proposed to adopt rate caps for international ICS calls for the first
time based on the proposed interstate rate caps, plus the amount that
the provider must pay its underlying international service provider for
an international call. It also proposed a waiver process for providers
that believe the Commission's rate caps would not allow them to recover
their costs of serving a particular facility or contract. Finally, it
sought comment on a further mandatory data collection to continue
efforts to reform these rates and fees.
On November 23, 2020, Global Tel*Link Corporation (GTL) filed a
petition for reconsideration of the August 6, 2020 Order on Remand. On
December 3, 2020, the Commission established the opposition and reply
comment dates for the petition.
On May 24, 2021, the Commission released the Third Report and
Order, Order on Reconsideration and Fifth Further Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking. In the Third Report and Order, the Commission: (1)
substantially reduced the interim rate caps for interstate ICS from
prisons and larger jails (those with 1,000 or more incarcerated people)
from $0.21 per minute for debit and prepaid calls and $0.25 per minute
for collect calls to new uniform interim interstate caps of $0.12 per
minute for prisons and $0.14 per minute for larger jails; (2)
maintained the interim interstate rate cap of $0.21 for jails with less
than 1,000 incarcerated people because of insufficient record evidence
to determine providers' costs of serving those facilities at the time;
(3) eliminated separate treatment of collect calls, resulting in a
uniform interim interstate rate cap for all types of calls at each
facility; (4) reformed the treatment of site commission payments by
specifying that providers may pass through to consumers (without any
markup) site commission payments that are mandated by federal, state,
or local law and that providers may pass through to consumers no more
than $0.02 per minute site commission payments resulting from
contractual obligations negotiated between providers and correctional
officials; (5) capped, for the first time, international calling rates
at all facilities at the applicable facility's total interstate rate
cap, plus the amount the inmate calling services provider pays to its
underlying wholesale carriers for completing international calls; (6)
reformed the ancillary service charge caps for third-party financial
transaction fees, including those related to calls that are billed on a
per-call basis; and (7) adopted a new mandatory data collection to
obtain more uniform cost data based on consistent, prescribed
allocation methodologies to determine just and reasonable, permanent,
interstate and international cost-based rates for facilities of all
sizes.
In the Order on Reconsideration, the Commission denied GTL's
petition for reconsideration of a single sentence from the 2020 Remand
Order, in which the Commission reminded providers that the
jurisdictional nature of a call, that is whether it is interstate or
intrastate, depends on the physical location of the endpoints of the
call and not on whether the area code or NXX prefix of the telephone
number associated with the account are associated with a particular
state. The Commission determined that the end-to-end analysis has been,
and remains, the generally applicable test for all telecommunications
carriers in determining the jurisdiction of their calls and the
Commission continues to use the traditional end-to-end jurisdictional
analysis in setting rates for calls placed by ICS consumers.
In the Fifth Further Notice, the Commission proposed to amend its
rules to require calling service providers to provide access to all
forms of Telecommunications Relay Services, including internet-based
services, to facilitate greater accessibility for incarcerated people
with hearing and speech disabilities. The Commission also sought
comment on: (1) the methodology the Commission should use to set
permanent per-minute rate caps for interstate and international inmate
calling services; (2) site commission costs for facilities of all sizes
and site commission reform generally; (3) the costs of providing
services to jails with average daily populations of fewer than 1,000
incarcerated people; (4) whether and how the Commission should reform
the ancillary service charge caps and how the Commission can curtail
potentially abusive practices related to these charges; (5) whether to
institute a recurring periodic data collection; and (6) whether some
providers have market power in the bidding process, thereby impacting
the competitiveness of the bidding process.
On September 22, 2021, WCB and the Office of Economics and
Analytics (OEA), (collectively, WCB/OEA) issued a Public Notice seeking
comment on the contours and specific requirements of the Third
Mandatory Data Collection, including proposed instructions and a
proposed template for that collection. In issuing this Public Notice,
WCB/OEA were acting pursuant to the Commission's directive, made in the
2021 ICS Order, that the new data collection obtain data on providers'
operations, costs, demand, and revenues, among other information. As
the Commission explained in that Order, the collected information would
allow the Commission to set permanent interstate and international
inmate calling services rate caps and to evaluate and, if warranted,
revise the ancillary service charge caps.
On December 15, 2021, WCB/OEA issued a Public Notice seeking
comment on revised requirements for ICS Annual Reports, including
proposed instructions, templates, and a provider certification.
Specifically, the Public Notice proposed changes in the reporting
requirements to align them with ICS rule changes adopted in the 2021
ICS Order.
On January 18, 2022, WCB adopted an Order implementing the Third
Mandatory Data Collection and adopted accompanying instructions,
reporting templates, and a certification form. The collected
information would allow the Commission to set permanent interstate and
international inmate calling services rate caps and to evaluate and, if
warranted, revise the current ancillary service charge caps.
On February 9, 2022, WCB released a public notice announcing that
the providers' mandatory data collection responses will be due no later
than June 30, 2022.
[[Page 48670]]
On June 24, 2022, WCB adopted an Order implementing revisions to
its annual reporting requirements, including accompanying instructions,
reporting templates, and a certification form. The revisions were
consistent with changes made in the Third Report and Order.
On September 30, 2022, the Commission released the Fourth Report
and Order, and Sixth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The Report
and Order required ICS providers to provide access to all relay
services eligible for Telecommunications Relay Services fund support in
any correctional facility that is located where broadband is available
and is part of a correctional system with 50 or more incarcerated
people. This included the ability to place point-to-point video calls
using American Sign Language. The rules also restricted provider
charges for relay services and point-to-point video calls. More
generally, the rules reduced certain charges and curtailed abusive
practices related to ICS to ease the financial burdens on all
incarcerated people and their families. To ensure that the rates,
terms, and practices related to interstate and international ICS are
just and reasonable, the Order prohibited providers from taking control
of funds in inactive calling accounts until at least 180 calendar days
of continuous inactivity had passed, after which providers are required
to refund the balance or dispose of the funds in accordance with
applicable state law. The Order also lowered the current ancillary fee
caps on charges for single call services, and lowered the cap on
provider charges for processing credit card, debit card, and other
payments to calling services accounts. Finally, the Commission revised
the definitions of ``Prison'' and ``Jail'' in its rules to conform with
the Commission's intent in adopting them in 2015.
In the Sixth Further Notice, the Commission sought additional
comment on whether to allow enterprise registration for internet
Protocol Captioned Telephone Service in carceral settings and how to
address the special circumstances faced by some ICS providers in
jurisdictions with average daily populations of fewer than 50
incarcerated persons. This Notice sought comment on refining the rules
adopted in the Fifth Report and Order concerning the treatment of
balances in inactive accounts. It also sought comment on expanding the
breadth and scope of the Commission's consumer disclosure requirements.
The Commission asked for comment on how it should use the data filed in
response to the Third Mandatory Data Collection to establish just and
reasonable permanent caps on interstate and international rates and
associated ancillary service charges consistent with the
Telecommunications Act of 1934 (the Act). The Commission invited
further comment on allowing ICS providers to offer pilot programs
allowing consumers to purchase calling services under alternative
pricing structures.
On March 17, 2023, the Commission opened a new docket, WC Docket
No. 23-62, and released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order to
begin implementation of the Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable
Communications Act of 2022, which was signed into law on January 5,
2023. The Martha Wright-Reed Act expands the Commission's authority
over rates charged for incarcerated people's communications services,
including intrastate services, and directs the Commission to adopt just
and reasonable rates and charges for incarcerated people's audio and
video communications services not earlier than 18 months and not later
than 24 months after the date of its enactment. The Notice seeks
comment on (1) the expansion of the Commission's authority over
incarcerated people's communications services to include advanced
communications services (including audio and video services) and
intrastate services; (2) the meaning of ``just and reasonable'' in the
context of the Act's other provisions; (3) the rate-making methodology
the Commission should use to fulfill its mandate to ensure that rates
and charges for incarcerated people's communications services are just
and reasonable; (4) the safety and security costs necessary for the
provision of incarcerated people's communications services; and (5) the
actions the Commission should take to ensure that incarcerated people's
communications services are accessible to, and usable by, people with
communication disabilities. The accompanying Order reaffirmed the
Commission's prior delegation of data collection authority to WCB/OEA
and directed staff to initiate a collection of provider data to inform
the Commission's responsibilities to implement the requirements of the
Martha Wright-Reed Act.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/22/13 78 FR 4369
FNPRM............................... 11/13/13 78 FR 68005
R&O................................. 11/13/13 78 FR 67956
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 12/20/13
2nd FNPRM........................... 11/21/14 79 FR 69682
2nd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 01/15/15
2nd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End.. 01/20/15
3rd FNPRM........................... 12/18/15 80 FR 79020
2nd R&O............................. 12/18/15 80 FR 79136
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 01/19/16
3rd FNPRM Reply Comment Period End.. 02/08/16
Order on Reconsideration............ 09/12/16 81 FR 62818
Announcement of OMB Approval........ 03/01/17 82 FR 12182
Correction to Announcement of OMB 03/08/17 82 FR 12922
Approval.
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 04/06/20
End.
Letter.............................. 07/15/20
R&O on Remand & 4th FNPRM........... 08/06/20 85 FR 67450; 85 FR
67480; 85 FR 73233
Order............................... 09/01/20
Public Notice....................... 09/24/20 85 FR 66512
Public Notice....................... 10/23/20
Letter.............................. 11/13/20
Public Notice....................... 12/03/20 85 FR 83000
Order Extending Reply Comment 12/17/20
Deadline.
Public Notice....................... 01/08/21
Comment Period End on 12/3/2020, 01/11/21
Public Notice End.
Comment Period End on 12/3/2020, 01/21/21
Public Notice End.
Public Notice....................... 03/03/21
5th FNPRM........................... 07/28/21 86 FR 40416
3rd R&O............................. 07/28/21 86 FR 40682
3rd R&O............................. 07/28/21 86 FR 40340
Order............................... 08/10/21 86 FR 48952
Public Notice (MDC)................. 09/22/21 86 FR 54897
5th NPRM Comment Period End......... 09/27/21
Order Extending Reply Comment 10/15/21 86 FR 60438
Deadline.
5th NPRM Reply Comment Period End... 10/27/21
Comment Period End on 09/22/2021, 11/04/21
Public Notice End.
[[Page 48671]]
Reply Comment Period on 09/22/2021, 11/19/21
Public Notice End.
5th NPRM Reply Comment Period End... 12/17/21
Public Notice on Annual Reports..... 01/04/22 87 FR 212
Comment Period End on 01/04/2022, 01/12/22
Public Notice End.
Reply Period on 01/04/2022, Public 01/27/22
Notice End.
Order Adopting MDC.................. 03/22/22 87 FR 16560
Order Adopting Annual Reports 08/02/22 87 FR 47103
Revisions.
4th R&O............................. 09/30/22
6th FNPRM........................... 09/30/22
-----------------------------------
NPRM and Order...................... To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: David Zesiger, Deputy Division Chief, PPD, WCB,
Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-2081, Email:
[email protected].
Erik Raven-Hansen, Assistant Division Chief, Pricing Policy
Division, Wireline Comp., Federal Communications Commission, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1532, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK08
326. Comprehensive Review of the Part 32 Uniform System of Accounts (WC
Docket No. 14-130) [3060-AK20]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201(b);
47 U.S.C. 219 and 220
Abstract: The Commission initiates a rulemaking proceeding to
review the Uniform System of Accounts (USOA) to consider ways to
minimize the compliance burdens on incumbent local exchange carriers
while ensuring that the Agency retains access to the information it
needs to fulfill its regulatory duties. In light of the Commission's
actions in areas of price cap regulation, universal service reform, and
intercarrier compensation reform, the Commission stated that it is
likely appropriate to streamline the existing rules even though those
reforms may not have eliminated the need for accounting data for some
purposes. The Commission's analysis and proposals are divided into
three parts. First, the Commission proposes to streamline the USOA
accounting rules while preserving their existing structure. Second, the
Commission seeks more focused comment on the accounting requirements
needed for price cap carriers to address our statutory and regulatory
obligations. Third, the Commission seeks comment on several related
issues, including state requirements, rate effects, implementation,
continuing property records, and legal authority.
On February 23, 2017, the Commission adopted a Report and Order
that revised the part 32 USOA to substantially reduce accounting
burdens for both price cap and rate-of-return carriers. First, the
Order streamlines the USOA for all carriers. In addition, the USOA will
be aligned more closely with generally accepted accounting principles,
or GAAP. Second, the Order allows price cap carriers to use GAAP for
all regulatory accounting purposes as long as they comply with targeted
accounting rules, which are designed to mitigate any impact on pole
attachment rates. Alternatively, price cap carriers can elect to use
GAAP accounting for all purposes other than those associated with pole
attachment rates and continue to use the part 32 accounts for pole
attachment rates for up to 12 years. Third, the Order addresses several
miscellaneous issues, including referral to the Federal-State Joint
Board on Separations the issue of examining jurisdictional separations
rules in light of the reforms adopted to part 32.
On June 5, 2017, NCTA-The internet & Television Association filed a
petition for reconsideration of the Report and Order requesting that
the Commission: (a) clarify that parties making pole attachments will
have access to all accounting information needed to verify the
reasonableness of pole attachment rates; and (b) establish additional
substantive protections to ensure that pole attachment rates based on
GAAP are consistent with the requirements of Section 224 of the
Communication Act and the assurances contained in the Part 32 Order.
Oppositions to that petition were due on July 21, 2017, and replies
were due on July 31, 2017.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 09/15/14 79 FR 54942
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/14/14
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 12/15/14
R&O................................. 04/04/17 82 FR 20833
Petition for Reconsideration........ 06/05/17 82 FR 31282
Comment Period on Petition for 07/21/17
Reconsideration End.
Reply Comment Period on Petition for 07/31/17
Reconsideration End.
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: William A. Kehoe III, Senior Counsel, Policy &
Program Planning Division, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline
Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202
418-7122, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK20
327. Restoring Internet Freedom (WC Docket No. 17-108); Protecting and
Promoting the Open Internet (GN Docket No. 14-28) [3060-AK21]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j); 47 U.S.C.
201(b)
Abstract: In December 2017, the Commission adopted the Restoring
internet Freedom Declaratory Ruling, Report and Order, and Order
(Restoring internet Freedom Order), which reclassified broadband
internet access service as an information service; reinstates the
determination that mobile broadband internet access service is not a
commercial mobile service and as a private mobile service; finds that
transparency, internet Service Providers (ISPs) economic incentives,
and antitrust and consumer protection laws will protect the openness of
the internet, and that title II regulation is unnecessary to do so; and
adopts a transparency rule similar to that in the 2010 Open internet
Order, requiring disclosure of network management practices,
performance characteristics, and commercial terms of service.
Additionally, the transparency rule requires ISPs to disclose any
blocking, throttling, paid prioritization, or affiliate prioritization,
and eliminates the internet conduct standard and the bright-line
conduct rules set forth in the 2015 Open internet Order.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
[[Page 48672]]
R&O on Remand, Declaratory Ruling, 04/13/15 80 FR 19737
and Order.
NPRM................................ 06/02/17 82 FR 25568
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/03/17
Declaratory Ruling, R&O, and Order.. 02/22/18 83 FR 7852
Order on Remand..................... 01/07/21 86 FR 994
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Melissa Kirkel, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline
Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline
Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202
418-7958, Fax: 202 418-1413, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK21
328. Technology Transitions; GN Docket No. 13-5, WC Docket No. 05-25;
Accelerating Wireline Broadband Deployment by Removing Barriers to
Infrastructure Investment; WC Docket No. 17-84 [3060-AK32]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: On April 20, 2017, the Commission adopted a Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking, Notice of Inquiry, and Request for Comment
(Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOl, and RFC) seeking input on a number
of actions designed to accelerate: (1) the deployment of next-
generation networks and services by removing barriers to infrastructure
investment at the Federal, State, and local level; (2) the transition
from legacy copper networks and services to next-generation fiber-based
networks and services; and (3) the reduction of Commission regulations
that raise costs and slow, rather than facilitate, broadband
deployment.
On November 16, 2017, the Commission adopted a Report and Order
(R&O), Declaratory Ruling, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
(Wireline Infrastructure Order) that takes a number of actions and
seeks comment on further actions designed to accelerate the deployment
of next-generation networks and services through removing barriers to
infrastructure investment.
The Wireline Infrastructure Order took a number of actions. First,
the Report and Order revised the pole attachment rules to reduce costs
for attachers, reforms the pole access complaint procedures to settle
access disputes more swiftly, and increases access to infrastructure
for certain types of broadband providers. Second, the Report and Order
revised the section 214(a) discontinuance rules and the network change
notification rules, including those applicable to copper retirements,
to expedite the process for carriers seeking to replace legacy network
infrastructure and legacy services with advanced broadband networks and
innovative new services. Third, the Report and Order reversed a 2015
ruling that discontinuance authority is required for solely wholesale
services to carrier-customers. Fourth, the Declaratory Ruling abandoned
the 2014 ``functional test'' interpretation of when section 214
discontinuance applications are required, bringing added clarity to the
section 214(a) discontinuance process for carriers and consumers alike.
Finally, the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking sought comment on
additional potential pole attachment reforms, reforms to the network
change disclosure and section 214(a) discontinuance processes, and ways
to facilitate rebuilding networks impacted by natural disasters.
Various parties filed a Petition for Review of the Wireline
Infrastructure Order in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth
Circuit. The Ninth Circuit denied the Petition on January 23, 2020 on
the grounds that the parties lacked standing.
On June 7, 2018, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order
(Wireline Infrastructure Second Report and Order) taking further
actions designed to expedite the transition from legacy networks and
services to next generation networks and advanced services that benefit
the American public and to promote broadband deployment by further
streamlining the section 214(a) discontinuance rules, network change
disclosure processes, and part 68 customer notification process.
The Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOI, and RFC sought comment on
additional issues not addressed in the November Wireline Infrastructure
Order or the June Wireline Infrastructure Second Report and Order. It
sought comment on changes to the Commission's pole attachment rules to:
(1) streamline the timeframe for gaining access to utility poles; (2)
reduce charges paid by attachers for work done to make a pole ready for
new attachments; and (3) establish a formula for computing the maximum
pole attachment rate that may be imposed on an incumbent LEC.
The Wireline Infrastructure NPRM, NOI, and RFC also sought comment
on whether the Commission should enact rules, consistent with its
authority under section 253 of the Act, to promote the deployment of
broadband infrastructure by preempting State and local laws that
inhibit broadband deployment. It also sought comment on whether there
are State laws governing the maintenance or retirement of copper
facilities that serve as a barrier to deploying next-generation
technologies and services that the Commission might seek to preempt.
Previously, in November 2014, the Commission adopted a Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking and Declaratory Ruling that: (1) proposed new
backup power rules; (2) proposed new or revised rules for copper
retirements and service discontinuances; and (3) adopted a functional
test in determining what constitutes a service for purposes of section
214(a) discontinuance review. In August 2015, the Commission adopted a
Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration, and Further Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking that: (i) lengthened and revised the copper
retirement process; (ii) determined that a carrier must obtain
Commission approval before discontinuing a service used as a wholesale
input if the carrier's actions will discontinue service to a carrier-
customer's retail end users; (iii) adopted an interim rule requiring
incumbent LECs that seek to discontinue certain TDM-based wholesale
services to commit to certain rates, terms, and conditions; (iv)
proposed further revisions to the copper retirement discontinuance
process; and (v) upheld the November 2014 Declaratory Ruling. In July
2016, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order, Declaratory
Ruling, and Order on Reconsideration that: (i) adopted a new test for
obtaining streamlined treatment when carriers seek Commission
authorization to discontinue legacy services in favor of services based
on newer technologies; (ii) set forth consumer education requirements
for carriers seeking to discontinue legacy services in favor of
services based on newer technologies; (iii) allowed notice to customers
of discontinuance applications by email; (iv) required carriers to
provide notice of discontinuance applications to Tribal entities; (v)
made a technical rule change to create a new title for copper
retirement notices and certifications; and (vi) harmonized the timeline
for competitive LEC discontinuances caused by incumbent LEC network
changes.
On August 2, 2018, the Commission adopted a Third Report and Order
and Declaratory Ruling (Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order)
[[Page 48673]]
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 January 19, 2021, WCB released a Declaratory Ruling on the
subject of pole replacements. WCB declined to rule on the NCTA
Petition, finding that the questions raised were better suited to a
rulemaking. However, in response to the Petition's record, WCB issued a
narrow clarification: a utility may not impose the entire cost of a
pole replacement on a requesting attacher when the attacher is not the
sole cause of the pole replacement (for instance, where the pole has
been red-tagged'' i.e., placed on a utility's pole replacement schedule
due to non-compliance with safety standards).
On July 23, 2021, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public
Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Declaratory Ruling filed by
the Edison Electric Institute asking the Commission to declare that:
(1) when the Commission determines that a pole attachment rate, term,
or condition is unjust and unreasonable and orders a refund pursuant to
section 1.1407(a)(3) of the Commission's rules, the applicable statute
of limitations'' is the same as the two-year period prescribed by
section 415(b) of the Act; and (2) refunds in pole attachment complaint
proceedings are not appropriate'' for any period preceding good-faith
notice of a dispute. Deadlines for filing comments and reply comments
were set for August 23, 2021, and September 10, 2021, respectively.
In March 2022, the Commission began the rulemaking contemplated by
the January 2021 Declaratory Ruling, by adopting a Second Further
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on several issues
relating to pole replacements, including (1) whether and to what extent
utilities directly benefit from various types of pole replacements in
situations where a pole replacement is not necessitated solely'' by a
new attachment request; (2) whether requiring utilities to pay a
portion of the costs of a pole replacement would positively or
negatively affect negotiations of pole attachment agreements and
broadband deployment; (3) what measures the Commission could adopt to
expedite the resolution of pole replacement disputes; and (4) what
scope of refunds the Commission should order when it determines that a
pole attachment rate, term, or condition is unjust and unreasonable.
Comments on the Second FNPRM were due on June 27, 2022, while reply
comments were due on August 26, 2022.
Timetable:
[[Page 48674]]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/06/15 80 FR 450
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/05/15 .......................
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 03/09/15 .......................
FNPRM............................... 09/25/15 80 FR 57768
R&O................................. 09/25/15 80 FR 57768
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 10/26/15 .......................
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End...... 11/24/15 .......................
2nd R&O............................. 09/12/16 81 FR 62632
NPRM................................ 05/16/17 82 FR 224533
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/15/17 .......................
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 07/17/17 .......................
R&O................................. 12/28/17 82 FR 61520
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 01/17/18 .......................
FNPRM Reply Comment Period End...... 02/16/18 .......................
2nd R&O............................. 07/09/18 83 FR 31659
3rd R&O............................. 09/14/18 83 FR 46812
NCTA Public Notice.................. 07/20/20 .......................
CTIA Declaratory Ruling............. 07/29/20 .......................
Declaratory Ruling.................. 01/19/21 .......................
Order on Reconsideration............ 02/02/21 86 FR 8872
EEI Public Notice................... 07/23/21 .......................
EEI Public Notice Comment Period End 08/23/21 .......................
EEI Public Notice Reply Comment 09/10/21 .......................
Period End.
Second FNPRM........................ 03/18/22 87 FR 25181
Second Further NPRM Comment Period 06/27/22 .......................
End.
Second Further NPRM Reply Comment 08/26/22 .......................
Period End.
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michele Berlove, Assistant Division Chief,
Competition Policy Div., WCB, Federal Communications Commission,
Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone: 202 418-1477, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK32
329. Numbering Policies for Modern Communications, WC Docket No. 13-97
[3060-AK36]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 153 to 154; 47 U.S.C. 201
to 205; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 303(r)
Abstract: This Order establishes a process to authorize
interconnected VoIP providers to obtain North American Numbering Plan
(NANP) telephone numbers directly from the numbering administrators,
rather than through intermediaries. Section 52.15(g)(2)(i) of the
Commission's rules limits access to telephone numbers to entities that
demonstrate they are authorized to provide service in the area for
which the numbers are being requested. The Commission has interpreted
this rule as requiring evidence of either a State certificate of public
convenience and necessity (CPCN) or a Commission license. Neither
authorization is typically available in practice to interconnected VoIP
providers. Thus, as a practical matter, generally only
telecommunications carriers are able to provide the proof of
authorization required under our rules, and thus able to obtain numbers
directly from the numbering administrators. This Order establishes an
authorization process to enable interconnected VoIP providers that
choose direct access to request numbers directly from the numbering
administrators. Next, the Order sets forth several conditions designed
to minimize number exhaust and preserve the integrity of the numbering
system.
The Order requires interconnected VoIP providers obtaining numbers
to comply with the same requirements applicable to carriers seeking to
obtain numbers. These requirements include any State requirements
pursuant to numbering authority delegated to the States by the
Commission, as well as industry guidelines and practices, among others.
The Order also requires interconnected VoIP providers to comply with
facilities readiness requirements adapted to this context, and with
numbering utilization and optimization requirements. As conditions to
requesting and obtaining numbers directly from the numbering
administrators, interconnected VoIP providers are also required to: (1)
provide the relevant State commissions with regulatory and numbering
contacts when requesting numbers in those states; (2) request numbers
from the numbering administrators under their own unique OCN; (3) file
any requests for numbers with the relevant State commissions at least
30 days prior to requesting numbers from the numbering administrators;
and (4) provide customers with the opportunity to access all
abbreviated dialing codes (N11 numbers) in use in a geographic area.
The Order also modifies Commission's rules in order to permit VoIP
Positioning Center (VPC) providers to obtain pseudo-Automatic Number
Identification (p-ANI) codes directly from the numbering administrators
for purposes of providing E911 services.
Based on experiences and review of the direct access authorization
process established by the 2015 Order, the Commission adopted a FNPRM
which proposes clarifications and revisions to the Commission's rules
to better ensure that interconnected VoIP providers that obtain direct
access authorization to not facilitate illegal robocalls, spoofing, or
fraud, pose national security risks, or evade or abuse intercarrier
compensation requirements. The FNPRM proposes to require additional
certifications as part of the direct access authorization applications
process, that would include certification of compliance with anti-
robocalling obligations. The FNPRM also proposes to clarify that
applicants disclose foreign ownership information on their direct
access application. It would also propose to generally refer those
applications with 10% or greater foreign ownership to the Executive
Branch agencies for their review, consistent with the Commission's
referral of other types of applications. The FNPRM also propose to
clarify that holders of a direct access authorization must update the
Commission and applicable states within 30 days of changes to ownership
information submitted to the Commission. The FNPRM further proposes to
clarify that Commission staff retain the authority to determine when to
accept filings as complete and proposes to direct Commission staff to
reject an application if an applicant has engaged in behavior contrary
to the public interest or has been found to originate or transmit
illegal robocalls. Finally, the FNPRM seeks comment on whether to
expand the direct access authorization to one-way VoIP providers or
other entities that use numbering resources.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/19/13 78 FR 36725
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/19/13 .......................
R&O................................. 10/29/15 80 FR 66454
FNPRM (Release Date)................ 08/06/21 86 FR 51081
FNPRM (Comment Period End).......... 10/14/21 86 FR 51081
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
[[Page 48675]]
Agency Contact: Jordan Marie Reth, Attorney-Advisor (PU), Federal
Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1418, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK36
330. Implementation of the Universal Service Portions of the 1996
Telecommunications Act [3060-AK57]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 et seq.
Abstract: The Telecommunications Act of 1996 expanded the
traditional goal of universal service to include increased access to
both telecommunications and advanced services such as high-speed
internet for all consumers at just, reasonable and affordable rates.
The Act established principles for universal service that specifically
focused on increasing access to evolving services for consumers living
in rural and insular areas, and for consumers with low-incomes.
Additional principles called for increased access to high-speed
internet in the nation's schools, libraries, and rural healthcare
facilities. The FCC established four programs within the Universal
Service Fund to implement the statute: Connect America Fund (formally
known as High-Cost Support) for rural areas; Lifeline (for low-income
consumers), including initiatives to expand phone service for Native
Americans; Schools and Libraries (E-rate); and Rural Healthcare.
The Universal Service Fund is paid for by contributions from
telecommunications carriers, including wireline and wireless companies,
and interconnected Voice over internet Protocol (VoIP) providers,
including cable companies that provide voice service, based on an
assessment on their interstate and international end-user revenues. The
Universal Service Administrative Company, or USAC, administers the four
programs and collects monies for the Universal Service Fund under the
direction of the FCC.
On October 28, 2022, the Commission proposed extending Universal
Service support for mobile and fixed providers beyond 2023.
On November 23, 2022, the Commission sought comments on petitions
that permit the use of E-Rate funds to support advanced or next-
generation firewalls, services and network security services.
On February 17, 2023, the Commission proposed simplifying rules for
accessing program offering High Speed internet for Schools and
Libraries.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
R&O and FNPRM....................... 01/13/17 82 FR 4275
NPRM Comment Period End............. 02/13/17 .......................
NPRM Reply Comment Period End....... 02/27/17 .......................
R&O and Order on Recon.............. 03/21/17 82 FR 14466
Order on Recon...................... 05/19/17 82 FR 22901
Order on Recon...................... 06/08/17 82 FR 26653
Memorandum, Opinion & Order......... 06/21/17 82 FR 228224
NPRM................................ 07/30/19 84 FR 36865
NPRM................................ 08/21/19 84 FR 43543
R&O and Order on Recon.............. 11/07/19 84 FR 59937
Order on Recon...................... 12/09/19 84 FR 67220
R&O................................. 12/20/19 84 FR 70026
R&O................................. 12/27/19 84 FR 71308
R&O................................. 01/17/20 85 FR 3044
Report & Order...................... 03/10/20 85 FR 13773
Report & Order...................... 05/11/20 85 FR 19892
Declaratory Ruling/2nd FNPRM........ 08/04/20 85 FR 48134
Public Notice....................... 03/22/21 86 FR 15172
Report & Order on Recon............. 04/09/21 86 FR 18459
R&O................................. 05/28/21 86 FR 29136
2nd R&O............................. 07/14/21 86 FR 37061
Public Notice....................... 08/02/21 86 FR 41408
NPRM................................ 10/14/21 86 FR 57097
Order............................... 12/14/21 86 FR 70983
NPRM................................ 01/27/22 87 FR 4182
FNPRM............................... 03/15/22 87 FR 14422
NPRM................................ 06/16/22 87 FR 36283
NPRM................................ 06/23/22 87 FR 37459
2nd R&O............................. 09/06/22 87 FR 54311
3rd R&O............................. 09/06/22 87 FR 54401
Further Notice of Proposed 11/19/22 87 FR 67660
Rulemaking.
Public Notice....................... 01/06/23 88 FR 1035
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking....... 03/09/23 88 FR 14529
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Nakesha Woodward, Program Analyst, Wireline
Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline
Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202
418-1502, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK57
331. Toll Free Assignment Modernization and Toll Free Service Access
Codes: WC Docket No. 17-192, CC Docket No. 95-155 [3060-AK91]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201(b);
47 U.S.C. 251(e)(1)
Abstract: In this Report and Order (Order), the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) initiates an auction to distribute
certain toll free numbers. The numbers to be auctioned will be in the
new 833 toll free code for which there have been multiple, competing
requests.
By using an auction, the FCC will ensure that sought-after numbers
are awarded to the parties that value them most. In addition, the FCC
will reserve certain 833 numbers for distribution to government and
non-profit entities that request them for public health and safety
purposes. The FCC will study the results of the auction to determine
how to best use the mechanism to distribute toll-free numbers equitably
and efficiently in the future as well. Revenues from the auction will
be used to defray the cost of toll-free numbering administration,
reducing the cost of numbering for all users. The Order establishing
the toll-free number auction will also authorize and accommodate the
use of a secondary market for numbers awarded at auction to further
distribute these numbers to the entities that value them most. The
Order also adopted several definitional and technical updates to
improve clarity and flexibility in toll-free number assignment.
The Commission sought comment and then adopted auctions procedures
and deadlines on August 2, 2019. Bidding for the auction occurred on
December 17, 2019, and Somos issued an announcement of the winning
bidders on December 20, 2019. On December 16, 2019, to facilitate the
preparation of its study of the auction, the Bureau charged the North
American Numbering Council, via its Toll Free Access Modernization
Working Group, to issue a report evaluating various aspects of the 833
Auction, and recommending improvements for any future toll free number
auctions.
On January 16, 2020, Somos released all of the 833 Auction data for
public review. On March 13, 2020, the Bureau invited public comment on
the 833 Auction in preparation for issuing a report on the lessons
learned from the Auction. Comments were due on April 13, 2020. On July
14, 2020, the North American Numbering Council approved the Toll Free
Assignment Modernization Working Group's report, Perspectives on the
December 2019 Auction of Numbers in the 833 Numbering Plan Area.
On January 15, 2021, the Bureau released a report that examined
various aspects of this toll free number assignment experiment,
including lessons learned, examination of auction outcomes, and
recommendations for future toll free number assignment. The Bureau
concluded that the 833 Auction was a successful experiment that
provided invaluable experience and data that can facilitate further
[[Page 48676]]
Commission efforts to continue to modernize toll free number allocation
in the future.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 10/13/17 82 FR 47669
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/13/17 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 10/23/18 83 FR 53377
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Heather Hendrickson, Deputy Division Chief,
Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L
Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7295, Email:
[email protected].
Matthew Collins, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau,
45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-7141, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK91
332. Establishing the Digital Opportunity Data Collection; WC Docket
Nos. 19-195 and 11-10 [3060-AK93]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 35 to 39; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 211;
47 U.S.C. 219; 47 U.S.C. 220; 47 U.S.C. 402(b)2(B); Pub. L. 104-104; 47
U.S.C. 151-154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 254; 47 U.S.C.
301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47
U.S.C. 641 to 646; Pub. L 116-130; . . .
Abstract: The Commission has long recognized that precise, granular
data on the availability of fixed and mobile broadband are vital to
bringing digital opportunity to all Americans, no matter where they
live, work, or travel.
On March 23, 2020, the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and
Technological Availability Act (Broadband DATA Act) was signed into law
requiring the Commission to create a new set of broadband availability
maps. Among other things, the Broadband DATA Act requires the
Commission to collect standardized, granular data on the availability
and quality of both fixed and mobile broadband internet access
services, to create a common dataset of all locations where fixed
broadband internet access service can be installed (the Broadband
Serviceable Location Fabric or Fabric), and to create publicly
available coverage maps. The Act further requires the Commission to
establish processes for members of the public and other entities to (1)
provide verified data for use in the coverage maps; (2) challenge the
coverage maps, the broadband availability data submitted by broadband
internet access service providers (providers), and the Fabric; and (3)
submit specific crowdsource information about the development and
availability of broadband service.
In July 2020, implementing the Broadband DATA Act and building off
of an August 2019 Report and Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking,
the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order and Third Further
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that adopted rules for the collection and
verification of improved, more precise data on both fixed and mobile
broadband availability. In January 2021, the Commission released a
Third Report and Order that established new requirements for the BDC
and took additional steps to implement the Broadband DATA Act. The
Commission adopted rules to specify which fixed and mobile providers
are required to report broadband availability data and expanded the
reporting and certification requirements for filing data in the BDC. It
also adopted standards for collecting verified broadband data from
State, local, and Tribal entities and certain third parties, and for
identifying locations that would be included in the Fabric.
Importantly, in the Third Report and Order, the Commission also
established processes for verifying the accuracy of provider-submitted
data and the Fabric, including a third party challenge process.
Implementing the Broadband DATA Act and these new rules, the
Commission created a complex data platform and system to collect and
map availability data collected from over 2500 providers and for
consumers and other stakeholders to submit challenges to that data;
established the Fabric dataset of locations upon which to overlay
provider availability data; and established a dedicated help center to
provide technical assistance to providers, consumers and other
stakeholders.
In July 2021, the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB), Office
of Economics and Analytics (OEA), and Office of Engineering and
Technology (OET) released a Public Notice seeking comment on the
technical requirements for the mobile challenge, verification, and
crowdsourcing processes required under the Broadband DATA Act for the
new Broadband Data Collection (BDC). In March 2022, the Broadband Data
Task Force (Task Force), WTB, OEA, and OET released a detailed order,
technical appendix, rules, and technical data specifications setting
forth technical requirements and specifications for the mobile
challenge, verification, and crowdsource processes required by the Act.
To help facilitate the mobile challenge process, in April 2022, the
Task Force and OET issued a Public Notice announcing the technical
requirements and procedures for approving third-party mobile speed test
procedures for use in collecting and submitting mobile network
performance data as part of the BDC. To assist entities that choose to
file mobile challenges in bulk, in September 2022 the Task Force and
WTB established a process for entities to use their own software and
hardware to collect on-the-ground mobile speed test data for use in the
BDC mobile challenge process.
Also in April 2022, the Task Force, WCB, WTB, OEA, and OET released
a Public Notice providing details on the procedures for state, local,
and Tribal governmental entities to submit verified availability data
through the BDC system.
Seeking to clarify the Commission's rules for filing data in the
BDC, in July 2022 WCB, WTB, OEA, and the Task Force issued a
Declaratory Ruling on certain aspects of a rule regarding the
engineering certification in BDC filings and issued a limited waiver of
the requirement that providers have an engineer certification their
biannual BDC filings for the first three filing cycles of the BDC.
On June 15, 2022, the FCC Enforcement Bureau issued an Enforcement
Advisory reminding all facilities-based providers of their duty to
timely file complete and accurate data in the BDC by September 1, 2022.
In February 2022, the Commission announced the opening of the
initial filing window of the BDC would open on June 30, 2022, and was
due no later than September 1, 2022. In December 2022, the Commission
announced that the second filing window of the BDC would open on
January 3, 2023, and required all fixed and mobile providers to submit
broadband availability data as of December 31, 2022, and was due no
later than March 1, 2023.
In November 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of
its new National Broadband Map based on version 1 of the Fabric and the
availability data submitted by providers as of June 30, 2022. The new
map is the most comprehensive, granular, and standardized data the
Commission has ever published on broadband availability.
[[Page 48677]]
The Commission adopted an Order in December 2022, to sunset the
Form 477 broadband deployment data collection and eliminate a largely
duplicative requirement on providers. As a result, providers will no
longer be required to submit Form 477 broadband deployment data, but
must still submit broadband and voice subscription data using the FCC
Form 477; those filers will submit their data through the BDC system.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/03/17 82 FR 40118
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/25/17 .......................
Report & Order...................... 08/01/19 84 FR 43705
Second Further Notice of Proposed 08/01/19 84 FR 43764
Rulemaking.
Second Further NPRM Comment Period 10/07/19 .......................
End.
2nd R&O............................. 07/16/20 85 FR 50886
3rd FNPRM........................... 07/16/20 85 FR 50911
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 09/08/20 .......................
3rd R&O............................. 01/13/21 86 FR 18124
Public Notice....................... 07/16/21 86 FR 40398
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 09/27/21 .......................
Order............................... 03/09/22 87 FR 21476
Order............................... 12/16/22 87 FR 76949
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael Ray, Attorney, Federal Communications
Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC
20554, Phone: 202 418-0357, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AK93
333. Call Authentication Trust Anchor [3060-AL00]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 227; 47
U.S.C. 227b; 47 U.S.C. 503
Abstract: On June 6, 2019, the Commission adopted a Declaratory
Ruling and Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (CG Docket No.
17-59, WC Docket No. 17-97) that proposed and sought comment on
mandating implementation of STIR/SHAKEN in the event that major voice
service providers did not voluntarily implement the framework by the
end of 2019.
On December 30, 2019, Congress enacted the Pallone-Thune Telephone
Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act. Along
with numerous other provisions directed at addressing robocalls, the
TRACED Act directs the Commission to require all voice service
providers to implement STIR/SHAKEN in the Internet Protocol (IP)
portions of their networks, and to implement an effective caller ID
authentication framework in the non-IP portions of their networks. The
TRACED Act further creates processes by which voice service providers
may be exempt from this mandate if the Commission determines they have
achieved certain implementation benchmarks, and by which voice service
providers may be granted a delay in compliance based on a finding of
undue hardship because of burdens or barriers to implementation or
based on a delay in development of a caller ID authentication protocol
for calls delivered over non-IP networks.
On March 31, 2020, the Commission adopted a Report and Order and
Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (WC Docket Nos. 17-97, 20-67).
The Report and Order mandated that all originating and terminating
voice service providers implement the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID
authentication framework in the IP portions of their networks by June
30, 2021. In the Further Notice the Commission sought comment on
proposals to further promote caller ID authentication and implement the
TRACED Act.
On September 29, 2020, the Commission adopted a Second Report and
Order (WC Docket No. 17-97). The Second Report and Order implemented
rules (1) granting extensions for compliance with the STIR/SHAKEN
implementation mandate for small voice service providers, voice service
providers that cannot obtain a SPC token from the Governance Authority,
services scheduled for section 214 discontinuance, for those portions
of a voice service provider's network that rely on non-IP technology,
and establishing a process for individual voice service providers to
seek provider specific extensions; (2) requiring voice service
providers using non-IP technology either to upgrade their networks to
IP to enable STIR/SHAKEN implementation, or work to develop non-IP
caller ID authentication technology and implement a robocall mitigation
program in the interim; (3) establishing a process where by a voice
service provider may be exempt from the STIR/SHAKEN implementation
mandate if the provider has achieved certain implementation benchmarks;
(4) prohibiting voice service providers from imposing line item charges
on consumer and small business subscribers for caller ID
authentication; and (5) requiring intermediate providers to implement
STIR/SHAKEN. On May 20, 2021, the Commissioned released a Third Further
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to shorten the small provider
extension from two years to one for a subset of small voice service
providers that are at a heightened risk of originating an especially
large amount of robocall traffic.
On January 13, 2021, the Commission adopted a Second Further Notice
of Proposed Rulemaking proposing and seeking comment on a limited role
for the Commission to oversee certificate revocation decisions by the
private STIR/SHAKEN Governance Authority that would have the effect of
placing providers in noncompliance with the Commission's rules. On
August 5, 2021, the Commission adopted a Third Report and Order which
adopted rules creating this oversight role.
On September 30, 2021, the Commission adopted a Fourth Further
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to require gateway providers to
apply STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication to, and perform robocall
mitigation on, foreign-originated calls with U.S. numbers, seeking
comment on revisions to the information that filers must submit to the
Robocall Mitigation Database, and clarifying the obligations of voice
service providers and intermediate providers with respect to calls to
and from Public Safety Answer Points and other emergency services
providers.
On December 9, 2021, the Commission adopted a Fourth Report and
Order adopting rules requiring non-facilities based small voice
providers implement SITR/SHAKEN by June 30, 2022, and requiring small
voice providers of any kind suspected of originating illegal robocalls
to implement STIR/SHAKEN on an accelerated timeline.
On May 19, 2022, the Commission adopted a Fifth Report and Order,
Order on Reconsideration, Order, and Fifth Further Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking. The Fifth Report and Order and Order required gateway
providers to submit a certification to the Robocall Mitigation
Database, implement STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication as well as
several other requirements, including an obligation to mitigate illegal
robocall traffic and submit a mitigation plan to the Robocall
Mitigation Database regardless of their STIR/SHAKEN implementation
status. The Order on Reconsideration expanded the obligation of
domestic providers to block calls carrying US NANP numbers from foreign
providers not listed in the
[[Page 48678]]
Robocall Mitigation Database. The Fifth Further Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking sought comment on further steps to combat illegal robocalls,
including extending requirements for authentication and filing in the
Robocall Mitigation Database, requiring additional measures for
robocall mitigation, enhancing enforcement mechanisms and other related
issues aimed at closing existing potential loopholes.
On March 16, 2023, the Commission adopted a Sixth Report and Order
and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The Sixth Report and Order
required intermediate providers to implement STIR/SHAKEN caller ID
authentication for certain calls, expanded robocall mitigation
requirements for all providers, and adopted more robust enforcement
tools. The Sixth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks comment on
additional measures to combat illegal robocalls, including whether any
changes should be made to the Commission's rules to permit, prohibit,
or limit the use of third-party caller ID authentication solutions and
whether to eliminate the STIR/SHAKEN implementation extension for
providers that cannot obtain Service Provider Code tokens, which are
necessary to participate in the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication
framework''.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOI................................. 07/14/17
DR and 3rd FNPRM.................... 06/06/19 84 FR 29478
NPRM................................ 06/24/19 84 FR 29478
NPRM Comment Period End............. 08/23/19
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 08/23/19
R&O and FNPRM....................... 03/31/20 85 FR 22029
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 05/29/20
2nd R&O............................. 09/29/20 85 FR 73360
2nd FNPRM........................... 01/13/21 86 FR 9894
2nd FNPRM Comment Period............ 03/19/21
3rd FNPRM........................... 05/20/21 86 FR 30571
3rd R&O............................. 08/05/21 86 FR 48511
3rd FNPRM Comment Period End........ 08/19/21
4th FNPRM........................... 10/01/21 86 FR 59084
4th FNPRM Comment Period End........ 11/26/21
4th R&O............................. 12/09/21
5th R&O, Order on Reconsideration... 05/19/22 87 FR 42916
5th FNPRM........................... 05/19/22 87 FR 42670
5th FNPRM Comment Period End........ 05/19/22
6th FNPRM........................... 03/16/23
6th Report and Order................ 03/17/23
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jonathan Lechter, Attorney Advisor, Federal
Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0984, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL00
334. Implementation of the National Suicide Improvement Act of 2018
[3060-AL01]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: On August 14, 2018, Congress passed the National Suicide
Hotline Improvement Act (Act). Public Law 115-233, 132 Stat. 2424
(2018). The purpose of the Act was to study and report on the
feasibility of designating a 3-digit dialing code to be used for a
national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system by
considering each of the current N11 designations. The Act directed the
Commission to: (1) conduct a study that examines the feasibility of
designating a simple, easy-to-remember, 3-digit dialing code to be used
for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline
system; and (2) analyze how well the current National Suicide
Prevention Lifeline is working to address the needs of veterans. The
Act also directed the Commission to coordinate with the Department of
Health and Human Services' Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration (SAMHSA), the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and the
North American Numbering Council (NANC) in conducting the study, and to
produce a report on the study by August 14, 2019.
On August 14, 2019, the Wireline Competition Bureau and Office of
Economics and Analytics submitted its report to Congress recommending
that: (1) a 3-digit dialing code be used for a national suicide
prevention and mental health crisis hotline system; and (2) the
Commission should initiate a rulemaking proceeding to consider
designating 988 as the 3-digit code.
On December 12, 2019, the Commission released a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) proposing to designate 988 as a new, nationwide, 3-
digit dialing code for a suicide prevention and mental health crisis
hotline. WC Docket No. 18-336. The NPRM proposes that calls made to 988
be directed to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which
is made up of an expansive network of over 170 crisis centers located
across the United States, and to the Veterans Crisis Line. The NPRM
also proposes to require all telecommunications carriers and
interconnected VoIP service providers to make, within 18 months, any
changes necessary to ensure that users can dial 988 to reach the
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Veterans Crisis Line.
On July 16, 2020, the Commission adopted an Order designating 988
as the 3-digit number to reach the Lifeline and Veterans Crisis Line
(800-273-TALK or 800-273-8255) and requiring all telecommunications
carriers, interconnected voice over internet Protocol (VoIP) providers,
and one-way VoIP providers to make any network changes necessary to
ensure that users can dial 988 to reach the Lifeline by July 16, 2022.
On October 16, 2020, the Communications Equality Advocates filed a
petition for partial reconsideration of the FCC's July 16, 2020 Report
and Order. In their petition, Communications Equality Advocates
requested that the FCC revise the Order to mandate text-to-988 and
direct video calling (DVC) requirements and to have such requirements
be implemented on the same timeline as voice calls to 988, by July 16,
2022.
On October 17, 2020, Congress enacted the National Suicide Hotline
Designation Act of 2020 (2020 Act). Public Law 116-172, 134 Stat. 832
(2020). The 2020 Act, among other things, designates 988 as the
universal telephone number within the United States for the purpose of
the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system
operating through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,'' with
designation occurring one year after enactment.
On November 9, 2020, pursuant to 2020 Act's requirements that the
Commission submit a report on the feasibility and cost of attaching an
automatic dispatchable location with 988 calls, the Commission issued a
Public Notice that sought comment on these issues.
On April 22, 2021 the Commission adopted a Further Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) that proposes to require text service
providers support text messages to 988 by routing texts to the toll
free number.
[[Page 48679]]
On November 19, 2020, pursuant to 2020 Act's requirements that the
Commission submit a report on the feasibility and cost of attaching an
automatic dispatchable location with 988 calls, the Commission issued a
Public Notice that sought comment on these issues. A Report to Congress
regarding geolocation was released on April 15, 2021.
On April 22, 2021 the Commission adopted a Further Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) that proposes to require text service
providers support text messages to 988 by routing texts to the toll
free number. On November 19, 2021, the Commission adopted an Order
requiring the industry to enable texting to 988 by the same deadline as
for voice calls, July 16, 2022.
On May 24, 2022, the Commission, following up on its report to
Congress, hosted a forum in coordination with the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
that convened various stakeholders to discuss issues surrounding
geolocation. Participants included state and local entities; suicide
prevention and mental health experts and advocates; communications
industry leaders; and technical experts. The Commission opened the
event to the public via live feed on the Commission's website, and
audience members submitted questions to panelists by email.
On October 14, 2022, in accordance with the National Suicide
Hotline Designation Act of 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau
submitted its first 988 Fee Accountability Report to Congress reporting
on the collection and distribution of 988 fees and charges by the
states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and Tribal
authorities for the period of January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
On January 26, 2023, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking to help ensure that the public has access to the 988 Suicide
& Crisis Lifeline if a service outage occurs.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/15/20 85 FR 2359
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/16/20
Report & Order...................... 07/16/20
PFR................................. 10/16/20
Oppositions Due..................... 12/02/20
Public Notice....................... 12/08/20 85 FR 79014
Replies Due......................... 12/14/20
Public Notice Comment Period End.... 01/11/21
FNPRM............................... 06/11/21 86 FR 31404
FNPRM Comment Period End............ 08/10/21
Report & Order...................... 11/19/21
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michelle Sclater, Attorney, Wireline Competition
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau,
45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-0388, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL01
335. Modernizing Unbundling and Resale Requirements in an Era of Next-
Generation Networks and Services [3060-AL02]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 10; 47 U.S.C. 251
Abstract: On November 22, 2019, the Commission adopted a Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) seeking comment on proposals to update the
unbundling and avoided-cost resale obligations stemming from the 1996
Act and applicable only to incumbent LECs. Many of these obligations
appear to no longer be necessary in many geographic areas due to
vigorous competition for mass market broadband services in urban areas
and numerous intermodal voice capabilities and services. But
recognizing that rural areas pose special challenges for broadband
deployment, the NPRM did not propose any change to unbundling
requirements for broadband-capable loops in rural areas. The NPRM
sought to promote the Commission's efforts to reduce unnecessary and
outdated regulatory burdens that appear to discourage the deployment of
next-generation networks, delay the IP transition, unnecessarily burden
incumbent LECs with no similar obligations placed on their competitors,
and no longer benefit consumers or serve the purpose for which they
were intended.
On October 27, 2020, the Commission adopted a Report and Order (1)
eliminating unbundling requirements, subject to a reasonable transition
period, for enterprise-grade DS1 and DS3 loops where there is evidence
of actual and potential competition, for broadband-capable DS0 loops
and associated subloops in the most densely populated areas, and for
voice-grade narrowband loops nationwide, but preserving unbundling
requirements for DS0 loops in less densely populated areas and DS1 and
DS3 loops in areas without sufficient evidence of competition; (2)
eliminating unbundling requirements for network interface devices and
multiunit premises subloops; (3) eliminating unbundled dark fiber
transport provisioned from wire centers within a half-mile of
competitive fiber networks, but providing an eight-year transition
period for existing circuits so as to avoid stranding investment and
last-mile deployment by competitive LECs that may harm consumers; (4)
eliminating unbundling requirements for operations support systems,
except where carriers are continuing to manage UNEs and for purposes of
local interconnection and local number portability; and (5) eliminating
remaining avoided-cost resale requirements. The Report and Order ended
unbundling and resale requirements where they stifle technology
transitions and broadband deployment, but preserved unbundling
requirements where they are still necessary to realize the 1996 Act's
goal of robust intermodal competition benefiting all Americans.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/06/20 85 FR 472
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/06/20
Report & Order...................... 01/08/21 86 FR 1636
Petition for Reconsideration filed 09/29/22
by Sonic Telecom.
Replies to Oppositions to Petition 10/04/22
for Reconsideration.
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michele Berlove, Assistant Division Chief,
Competition Policy Div., WCB, Federal Communications Commission,
Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554,
Phone: 202 418-1477, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL02
336. Establishing a 5G Fund for Rural America; GN Docket No. 20-32
[3060-AL15]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 254; 47
U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 403
Abstract: The 5G Fund for Rural America will distribute up to $9
billion in universal service support through competitive bidding in two
phases to bring mobile voice and 5G broadband service to rural areas of
the country. 5G public interest obligations and
[[Page 48680]]
performance requirements imposed on carriers continuing to receive
legacy mobile high-cost support will help ensure that the areas they
serve enjoy the benefits that 5G promises.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/26/20 85 FR 31616
Final Action........................ 11/25/20 85 FR 75770x
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Kirk Burgee, Chief of Staff, Wireline Competition
Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington,
DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1599, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL15
337. Improving Competitive Broadband Access to Multiple Tenant
Environments [3060-AL35]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151-54, 201(b), 303(r), 521(4), 521(6),
544(i), and 548
Abstract: In June 2017, the Commission issued a Notice of Inquiry
seeking comment on the state of broadband competition in multiple
tenant environments (MTEs) and whether additional Commission action in
this area is warranted to eliminate or reduce barriers faced by
broadband providers that seek to serve MTE occupants. In July 2019, the
Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking further
targeted comment on a variety of issues that may affect the
provisioning of broadband to MTEs, including exclusive marketing and
wiring arrangements, revenue sharing agreements, state and local
regulations, and the Commission's legal authority to address broadband,
telecommunications, and video deployment and competition in MTEs. In
February 2022, the Commission adopted a Report and Order and
Declaratory Ruling that (1) adopted new rules prohibiting providers
from entering into certain types of revenue sharing agreements that are
used to evade our existing rules; (2) adopted new rules requiring
providers to disclose the existence of exclusive marketing arrangements
in simple, easy-to-understand language; and (3) clarified that existing
Commission rules regarding cable inside wiring prohibit so-called sale-
and-leaseback arrangements which effectively deny access to alternative
providers. In taking these actions, the Commission is promoting tenant
choice and competition in the provision of communications services to
the benefit of those who live and work in MTEs.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Inquiry................... 06/22/17
Notice of Inquiry Comment Period End 08/22/17
NPRM................................ 07/31/19 84 FR 37219
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/30/19
Report & Order, Declaratory Ruling.. 03/28/22 87 FR 17181
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Matthew Collins, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline
Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline
Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202
418-7141, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 3060-AL35
338. Supporting Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence (WC Docket
No. 22-238,11-42, 21-450) [3060-AL48]
Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151.201(b); 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47
U.S.C. 307 and 309; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 345; 47 U.S.C. 403 and sec. 5(b);
Pub. L. 117-223 and 136 Stat. 2280
Abstract: On July 14, 2022, the Commission initiated an inquiry
into steps that the Commission could take to assist survivors of
domestic violence. In the Notice of Inquiry, the Commission sought
information on the scope of connectivity-based difficulties survivors
face, as well as potential means by which current Commission programs
could be better adapted and new programs could be developed to address
survivors' needs. In particular, the Commission sought comment relating
to potentially developing a centralized database of telephone numbers
relating to domestic abuse support that could be used by service
providers to prevent survivors' communications with support
organizations from appearing on logs of calls and text messages that
may be available to abusers.
In the NPRM, the Commission begins the process of implementing the
Safe Connections Act of 2022 (Safe Connections Act), enacted on
December 7, 2022. The legislation amends the Communications Act of 1934
(Communications Act) to require mobile service providers to separate
the line of a survivor of domestic violence (and other related crimes
and abuse), and any individuals in the care of the survivor, from a
mobile service contract shared with an abuser within two business days
after receiving a request from the survivor. The Safe Connections Act
also directs the Commission to issue rules, within 18 months of the
statute's enactment, implementing the line separation requirement.
Further, the legislation also requires the Commission to open a
rulemaking within 180 days of enactment to consider whether to, and how
the Commission should, establish a central database of domestic abuse
hotlines to be used by service providers and require such providers to
omit, subject to certain conditions, any records of calls or text
messages to the hotlines from consumer-facing call and text message
logs. The NPRM proposes rules as directed by these statutory
requirements.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOI................................. 08/18/22
Comment Period End.................. 08/18/22
Reply Comment Period End............ 09/19/22
NPRM................................ 02/17/23 88 FR 15558
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/10/23
Reply Comment Period End............ 05/10/23
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Edward Kracher, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline
Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE,
Washington, DC 20554, Phone: 202 418-1525.
RIN: 3060-AL48
[FR Doc. 2023-14555 Filed 7-26-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6712-01-P