SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

The following terms may clarify the status of the proceedings included in this report:

Docket Number —assigned to a proceeding if the Commission has issued either a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking or a Notice of Inquiry concerning the matter under consideration. The Commission has used docket numbers since January 1, 1978. Docket numbers consist of the last two digits of the calendar year in which the docket was established plus a sequential number that begins at 1 with the first docket initiated during a calendar year ( e.g., Docket No. 15-1 or Docket No. 17-1). The abbreviation for the responsible bureau usually precedes the docket number, as in “MB Docket No. 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 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 acted 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.

( printed page 45591) ( printed page 45592)

193. RULES AND REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE TELEPHONE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT (TCPA) OF 1991, CG DOCKET NOS. 21-402, 02-278, 17-59 [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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Kristi Thornton, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2467

Email: kristi.thornton@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AI14 ( printed page 45593)

194. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1264

Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AI15

195. CLOSED-CAPTIONING OF VIDEO PROGRAMMING; CG DOCKET NOS. 05-231 AND 06-181 (SECTION 610 REVIEW) [3060-AI72]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 613

Abstract: The Commission's closed-captioning rules are designed to make video programming more accessible to deaf and hard-of-hearing Americans. This proceeding has resolved issues regarding the quality of closed-captioning. Further action is required to resolve a petition that has been filed regarding video programmer registration and certification rules.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Eliot Greenwald, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2235

Email: eliot.greenwald@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AI72

196. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554 ( printed page 45596)

Phone: 202 418-1264

Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ42

197. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 717 338-2797

Fax: 717 338-2574

Email: richard.smith@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ84

198. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1264

Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK00

199. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1264

Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK01

200. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jerusha Burnett, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0526

Email: jerusha.burnett@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK62

201. EMPOWERING BROADBAND CONSUMERS THROUGH TRANSPARENCY, CG DOCKET NO 22-2 [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) to 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Zac Champ, Deputy Division Chief, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1495

Email: zac.champ@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL33

202. TARGETING AND ELIMINATING UNLAWFUL TEXT MESSAGES, CG DOCKET 21-402 [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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Mika Savir, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0384

Email: mika.savir@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL49

203. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1264

Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL58

204. COMPENSATION FOR INTERNET PROTOCOL CAPTIONED TELEPHONE SERVICE, CG DOCKET NO. 22-408 [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, 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 CTS is available, to the extent possible and in the most efficient manner.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Scott, Deputy Chief, Disability Rights Office, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1264

Email: michael.scott@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL59

205. ACCESS TO VIDEO CONFERENCING, CG DOCKET NO. 23-161 [3060-AL66]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 225 ; 47 U.S.C. 617

Abstract: Section 716 of the Twenty-First Century Communications and ( printed page 45599) Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA) (47 U.S.C. 617) requires the Federal Communications Commission to ensure the accessibility and usability of advanced communications services (ACS), including interoperable video conferencing services (IVCS), for individual with disabilities, unless such requirements are not achievable. IVCS is defined by the CVAA as a service that provides real-time video communications, including audio, to enable users to share information of the user's choosing.” In CG Docket No. 23-161, the Commission considers rules and policies for the adoption of usability and accessibility requirements for IVCS and the integration of IVCS with telecommunications relay services (TRS). The Commission takes these steps to ensure that IVCS are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities and that users of TRS are able to participate in video conferencing services in a functionally equivalent manner to persons without hearing and speech disabilities. In doing so, the Commission balances several different factors including regulating IVCS, encouraging the use of advanced technology, not discouraging or impairing the development of improved technology, and ensuring IVCS are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Ike Ofobike, Attorney Advisor, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1028

Email: ike.ofobike@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL66

206. • IMPLICATIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGIES ON PROTECTING CONSUMERS FROM UNWANTED ROBOCALLS AND ROBOTEXTS (CG DOCKET NO. 23-362) [3060-AM12]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 227

Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission initiated this proceeding to protect consumer from unwanted AI-generated calls while ensuring that our rules do not hinder the potential benefits that AI can offer, including making telecommunications more readily accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Richard D. Smith, Special Counsel, Consumer Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 717 338-2797

Fax: 717 338-2574

Email: richard.smith@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM12

207. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Suzanne Mendez, Associate Division Chief, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0941

Email: suzanne.mendez@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ15

208. 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 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 ( printed page 45600) 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jean L. Kiddoo, Chair, Broadband Data Task Force, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7757

Email: jean.kiddoo@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ82

209. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Kelly Quinn, Assistant Chief, Auctions and Spectrum Access Division, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0660

Email: kelly.quinn@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK28

210. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Roland Helvajian, Office of the Managing Director, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0444

Email: roland.helvajian@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK64 ( printed page 45601)

211. 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 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.

On February 28, 2025, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in preparation for an auction of spectrum licenses in the AWS-3 bands that are in the Commission's inventory. The Spectrum and Secure Technology and Innovation Act, 5403, Public Law 118-159, requires that the Commission initiate a system of competitive bidding for licenses for unassigned AWS-3 spectrum within 18 months of December 23, 2024. The NPRM proposes to harmonize outdated rules related to competitive bidding for such licenses with more recent Commission practice in spectrum auctions. The procedures, terms and conditions, dates and deadlines governing participation in the auction will be addressed in a separate proceeding.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Mark Montano, Associate Chief, Office of Economics and Analytics, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L. Street, NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0691

Email: mark.montano@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL15

212. BROADBAND DATA COLLECTION [3060-AL42]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 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

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 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 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 governmental 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 challenge processes which invite input from the public and other stakeholders in order to improve the accuracy of the maps.

Implementing the Broadband DATA Act and these new rules, the Commission created a new data platform and system to collect and map availability data collected from over 2,500 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.

To clarify the Commission's rules for filing data in the BDC, in July 2022, WCB, WTB, OEA, and the Taskforce 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 ( printed page 45602) 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 that the initial filing window of the BDC would open on June 30, 2022, and that availability data as of June 30 were due no later than September 1, 2022. In September 2022, the Commission announced that as of September 12, 2022, state, local, and Tribal governments, service providers, and other entities may begin to file bulk challenges to location data in the Fabric.

In November 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of its new National Broadband Map displaying version 1 of the Fabric overlayed with provider reported availability data as of June 30, 2022. The new map was the most comprehensive, granular, and standardized data the Commission had ever published on broadband availability.

With the launch of the pre-production draft map, the Commission began accepting challenges to provider reported availability data, as well as individual consumer challenges to the location data in the Fabric. To date, the mapping team has reviewed and processed more than 4 million availability challenges. Most of those challenges have already been resolved and the majority have led to updates in the data on the map showing where broadband is available.

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. To further streamline the FCC's data collection efforts the BDC system allows filers to submit both their BDC data and 477 subscription data as a combined filing using a single interface.

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 governmental 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 challenge processes which invite input from the public and other stakeholders in order to improve the accuracy of the maps.

Implementing the Broadband DATA Act and these new rules, the Commission created a new data platform and system to collect and map availability data collected from over 2,500 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.

To clarify the Commission's rules for filing data in the BDC, in July 2022, WCB, WTB, OEA, and the Taskforce 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 that the initial filing window of the BDC would open on June 30, 2022, and that availability data as of June 30 were due no later than September 1, 2022. In September 2022, ( printed page 45603) the Commission announced that as of September 12, 2022, state, local, and Tribal governments, service providers, and other entities may begin to file bulk challenges to location data in the Fabric.

In November 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of its new National Broadband Map displaying version 1 of the Fabric overlayed with provider reported availability data as of June 30, 2022. The new map was the most comprehensive, granular, and standardized data the Commission had ever published on broadband availability.

With the launch of the pre-production draft map, the Commission began accepting challenges to provider reported availability data, as well as individual consumer challenges to the location data in the Fabric. To date, the mapping team has reviewed and processed more than 4 million availability challenges. Most of those challenges have already been resolved and the majority have led to updates in the data on the map showing where broadband is available.

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. To further streamline the FCC's data collection efforts the BDC system allows filers to submit both their BDC data and 477 subscription data as a combined filing using a single interface.

The second version of the Fabric was made available to providers and other stakeholders in December 2022. This updated Fabric contained a net increase of more than one million new serviceable locations, as compared to the initial version. It also reflected the outcome of over 1 million location challenges. The second filing window of the BDC opened on January 3, 2023, and required all fixed and mobile providers to submit broadband availability data as of December 31, 2022, no later than March 1, 2023. On May 30, 2023,the National Broadband Map was updated to reflect availability data as of December 31, 2022, and version 2 of the Fabric.

On July 3, 2023, the Commission announced the opening of the third filing window for broadband availability data as of June 30, 2023. The BDC will continue to collect updated availability data from providers every 6 months. Updates to the National Broadband Map will be iterative and ongoing. The challenge processes will also continue on an ongoing basis in order to allow the public to provide input and help improve the accuracy of the National Broadband Map.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jean L. Kiddoo, Chair, Broadband Data Task Force, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7757

Email: jean.kiddoo@fcc.gov

Eduard Bartholme, Senior Outreach Director, Broadband Data Task Force, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1463

Email: eduard.bartholme@fcc.gov

Kimia Nikseresht, Legal Advisor, Broadband Data Task Force, OEA, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1636

Email: kimia.nikseresht@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL42

213. • ENHANCING NATIONAL SECURITY THROUGH THE AUCTION OF AWS-3 SPECTRUM LICENSES [3060-AM05]

Legal Authority: Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025,; Pub. L. 118-159, Div. E, Title LIV,; 5401-5405, ; Spectrum and Secure Technology and Innovation Act,; 5403 (2024),; Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 309

Abstract: In preparation for an auction of spectrum licenses in the AWS-3 bands that are in the Commission's inventory, the NPRM proposes to harmonize outdated rules related to competitive bidding for such licenses with more recent Commission practice in spectrum auctions. The NPRM proposes to update the AWS-3 service-specific competitive bidding rules related to designated entities to incorporate changes made to the Commission's bidding credit program in the ten-plus years since AWS-3 licenses were last offered in Auction 97. These updates include a 15% bidding credit for rural service providers and increases to the average annual gross revenue thresholds for small businesses and very small businesses.

Auction proceeds will support the Commission's Supply Chain Reimbursement Program, which implements the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 by reimbursing eligible advanced communications service providers for their costs to remove, replace, and dispose of untrustworthy Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation equipment and services.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Erik Salovaara, Assistant Chief, Auctions Division, Office of Economics and Analytics, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L. Street, NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0660

Email: erik.salovaara@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM05

214. USE OF THE 5.850-5.925 GHZ BAND; ET DOCKET NO. 19-138 [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 ( printed page 45604) 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Howard Griboff, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0657

Fax: 202 418-2824

Email: howard.griboff@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK96

215. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jamie Coleman, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2705

Email: jaime.coleman@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL23

216. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Nicholas Oros, Supervisory Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0636

Email: nicholas.oros@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL44

217. FCC IMPLEMENTS AND PROPOSES FINAL ACTS OF THE WRC-19 AND WRC-15, ET DOCKET NO. 23-120 & 23-121 [3060-AL77]

Legal Authority: part 2—47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 302a and 303; 47 U.S.C. 336 ( printed page 45605)

Abstract: In this document, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) makes non-substantive, editorial revisions to the Commission's Table of Frequency Allocations (Allocation Table), primarily to reflect decisions from the Final Acts of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2019 ( WRC19 Final Acts). The purpose of this administrative action is to revise the Allocation Table by updating the International Table of Frequency Allocations (International Table) portion of the Allocation Table to reflect the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU's) Table of Frequency Allocations in its Radio Regulations (Edition of 2020) (Radio Regulations), and by making updates and corrections in the United States Table of Frequency Allocations (U.S. Table) portion of the Allocation Table. The Commission also proposes implementation of certain allocation decisions from the Final Acts of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2015 ( WRC15 Final Acts) concerning portions of the radio spectrum between 5330.5 kHz and 29.5 GHz, other spectrum allocation changes, and related updates to the Commission's service rules.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Patrick Forster, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7061

Email: pforster@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL77

218. PROMOTING THE INTEGRITY AND SECURITY OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS CERTIFICATION BODIES, MEASUREMENT FACILITIES, AND THE EQUIPMENT AUTHORIZATION PROGRAM, ET DOCKET NO. 24-136 [3060-AL85]

Legal Authority: secs. 1, 4(i), 229, 301, 302, 303, 309, 312, 403, and 503 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 229; 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 302a; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 312; 47 U.S.C. 403; 47 U.S.C. 503; sec. 105 of the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act; 47 U.S.C. 1004; the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019; 47 U.S.C. 1601 thru 1609;and the Secure Equipment Act of 2021 ; Pub. L. 117-55, 135 Stat. 423

Abstract: In this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, we propose to strengthen requirements and oversight relating to telecommunications certification bodies and measurement facilities to help ensure the integrity of these entities for purposes of the equipment authorization, to better protect national security, and to advance the Commission's comprehensive strategy to build a more secure and resilient communications supply chain.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jamie Coleman, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2705

Email: jaime.coleman@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL85

219. 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 these 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Hugh Van Tuyl, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7506

Fax: 202 418-1944

Email: hugh.vantuyl@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AI52

220. ALLOWING EARLIER EQUIPMENT MARKETING AND IMPORTATION OPPORTUNITIES; PETITION TO EXPAND MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES FOR INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES (ET DOCKET NO. 20-382 & RM-11857) NPRM, 86 FR 2337, JANUARY 1 [3060-AL18]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 301, 302a, 303(c), 303(f), and 303(r)

Abstract: In this document, the Commission recognize that our equipment authorization rules have in some ways failed to keep pace with developments in the modern device ecosystem. In particular, our rules limit the ability of device manufacturers to market and import radiofrequency devices in the most efficient and cost-effective ways possible. We therefore take the opportunity here to propose specific rule changes that would allow device manufacturers to take full advantage of modern marketing and importation practices.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Thomas Struble, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2470

Email: thomas.struble@fcc.gov

Brian Butler, Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2702

Email: brian.butler@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL18

221. • MODERNIZING SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT [3060-AM09]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154 and 225 and 254 and 620, Communications Act of 1934 (as amended) ; 31 U.S.C. 6101, Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act; E.O. 11738; E.O. 12549, Debarment and Suspension; E.O. 12689, Debarment and Suspension

Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plans to update and align its existing suspension and debarment rules consistent with Office of Management and Budget Guidelines to Agencies on Government Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) (2005). To better protect against waste, fraud, and abuse, the Commission proposes that such new rules be applied to transactions under the Universal Service Fund (USF) and Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) programs and the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP).

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Brayden Parker, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20544

Phone: 202 418-0097

Email: brayden.parker@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM09

222. • IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE FALSE CLAIMS ACT [3060-AM10]

Legal Authority: 31 U.S.C. 3809, Administrative False Claims Act (formerly the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act) ; Pub. L. 118-159, sec. 5203(j)

Abstract: Pursuant to statute, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is required to implement the Administrative False Claims Act of 1986 (AFCA). The AFCA authorizes Federal agencies to impose civil penalties and assessments against any person who makes, submits, or presents a false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim or written statement.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Brayden Parker, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20544

Phone: 202 418-0097

Email: brayden.parker@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM10

223. CABLE TELEVISION RATE REGULATION [3060-AF41]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 543

Abstract: The Commission has adopted rate regulations to implement section 623 of the 1992 Cable Act to ensure that cable subscribers nationwide enjoy the rates that would be charged by cable systems operating in a competitive environment.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Maria Mullarkey, Chief, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1067

Email: maria.mullarkey@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AF41

224. 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.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Ty Bream, Attorney Advisor, Industry Analysis Div., Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0644

Email: ty.bream@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK56

225. 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

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. Based on a careful review of the record, the Commission found that the existing rules, with some minor modifications, remain necessary in the public interest. Petitions for Review of this action were consolidated in the United States Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1523

Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK77

226. 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 initially 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 contours overlap and are commonly owned or subject to a time brokerage agreement. On reconsideration, the Commission reinstated the radio duplication rule for commercial FM stations. A Petition for Reconsideration of this action was filed.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Radhika Karmarkar, Chief, Industry Analysis Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1523

Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL19

227. 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:

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 ( printed page 45608)

Email: radhika.karmarkar@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL20

228. 2022 QUADRENNIAL REVIEW OF MEDIA OWNERSHIP RULES, MB DOCKET NO. 22-459 [3060-AL65]

Legal Authority: 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996

Abstract: Section 202(h) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires the Commission to review its media ownership rules every four years to determine whether they remain necessary in the public interest as the result of competition. This proceeding will examine the media ownership rules in light of the media landscape of 2022 and beyond.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Ty Bream, Attorney Advisor, Industry Analysis Div., Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0644

Email: ty.bream@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL65

229. MODIFYING RULES FOR FM TERRESTRIAL DIGITAL AUDIO BROADCASTING SYSTEMS, MB DOCKET NO. 22-405 [3060-AL70]

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

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission changes the digital audio broadcasting technical rules to permit additional FM stations to increase FM hybrid digital effective radiated power beyond the existing levels without the need for individual Commission authorization. In addition, the Commission allows a digital FM station to operate with asymmetric power on the digital sidebands. These rule changes are intended to improve digital FM signal quality and minimize the effect of the digital FM station signal on adjacent channel FM transmissions. A Petition for Reconsideration of these actions has been filed.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Al Shuldiner, Division Chief, Audio Div., Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2700

Email: albert.shuldiner@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL70

230. RULES TO ADVANCE THE LOW POWER TELEVISION, TV TRANSLATOR AND CLASS A TELEVISION SERVICE, MB DOCKET NOS 24-147 & 24-148 [3060-AL86]

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

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission seeks comment on comprehensive updates to rules relating to the Low Power Television service (LPTV Service). The LPTV Service includes low power television (LPTV) stations as well as television translator stations and Class A TV stations. The Commission created the LPTV Service in 1982 to bring local television service to viewers otherwise unserved or underserved by existing full power service providers. Today, these stations are an established component of the nation's television system, delivering free over-the-air TV service, including locally produced programming, to millions of viewers in rural and discrete urban communities. In light of changes to the LPTV Service over the last forty years, comment is sought on changes to Commission rules and policies to ensure that LPTV Service continues to flourish and serve the public interest.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Shaun Maher, Attorney, Video Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L. Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2324

Fax: 202 418-2827

Email: shaun.maher@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL86

231. • AMENDMENT OF PARTS 1, 73, 74 AND 76 OF THE COMMISSION'S RULES TO UPDATE RULES APPLICABLE TO BROADCAST STATIONS (MB DOCKET NO. 24-626) [3060-AM07]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C.151; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission acts to revise various broadcast radio and television regulations in parts 1, 73, and 74 of the Code of Federal Regulations in order to better reflect current application processing requirements, clarify and harmonize provisions, and remove references to outdated procedures and legacy filing systems. The proceeding also act to clarify certain terms and procedures used in the comparative processes for mutually exclusive noncommercial educational stations and low power FM stations.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Arian Rangel, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20544

Phone: 202 418-4036

Email: ariane.rangel@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM07

232. • UPDATES TO THE COMMISSION'S RULES IMPLEMENTING THE COMMERCIAL ADVERTISEMENT LOUDNESS MITIGATION (CALM) ACT (MB DOCKET NO. 25-72) [3060-AM08]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 621

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission considers whether it should update or change its approach to the loudness of commercials. It has been over ten years since the Commission has taken action in this area, and accordingly, it seeks input from consumers and industry on the extent to which the existing rules have been effective in controlling and preventing loud commercials on programming provided by television broadcasters and pay TV providers.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Lyle Elder, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20544

Phone: 202 418-2365

Email: lyle.elder@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM08

233. RADIO MARKET DEFINITIONS (MM DOCKET NO. 03-130) [3060-AH70]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 202(h); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307

Abstract: This FNPRM proposes changes to local ownership rules and policies concerning multiple ownership of radio broadcasting stations. The Commission examines the effect our current rules have had on the public and seeks comments to better serve our communities. This action is also intended to consider possible changes to our current local market radio ownership rules and policies in accordance with the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Because of the similarity of the issues presented in the Multiple Ownership of Radio Broadcast Stations in Local Markets to those in the Matter of Definition of Radio Market, the two actions were, in effect, consolidated. These issues were evaluated as part of the Commission's biennial review of Media Ownership rules. An NPRM was initiated regarding the definition of radio markets in smaller communities.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Ty Bream, Industry Analysis Div., Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0644

Email: ty.bream@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AH70

234. REVISION OF PROCEDURES GOVERNING AMENDMENTS TO FM TABLE OF ALLOTMENTS AND CHANGES OF COMMUNITY OF LICENSE IN THE RADIO BROADCAST SERVICES (MB DOCKET NO. 05-210) [3060-AI63]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 303

Abstract: The rulemaking was initiated to reduce backlog in, and streamline, the FM allotment procedures and, to a lesser extent, streamline certain procedures pertaining to AM applications. Although the Commission has made important changes to streamline the processing of radio broadcast applications, the basic procedures for amending the Table have not changed since 1982. The Notice seeks comment on a number of specific rule and procedural changes in the handling of FM and AM applications and rulemaking petitions to amend the Table. In the area of applications procedures, the Notice seeks comments on various proposals designed to encourage only bona fide proponents to submit petitions and to limit the complexity of such petitions. If these changes are adopted, it will expedite the approval and implementation on new and upgraded radio service to the public. The Report and Order adopted the proposals from the notice. Petitions for reconsideration are pending.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Thomas Nessinger, Senior Counsel, Audio Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2700

Email: thomas.nessinger@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AI63

235. LEASED COMMERCIAL ACCESS (MB DOCKET NO. 07-42) [3060-AI95]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 532; 47 U.S.C. 536

Abstract: Section 612 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, sets forth the commercial leased access requirements. Cable operators are required to set aside channel capacity for commercial use by video programmers unaffiliated with the operator. In 2020, the Commission updated its cable TV leased access rules as part of its modernization of media regulation initiative. The leased access rate formula was changed to a tier-based calculation.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Diana Sokolow, Attorney, Policy Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2120

Email: diana.sokolow@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AI95

236. REVISION OF THE COMMISSION'S PROGRAM CARRIAGE RULES (MB DOCKET NO. 11-131) [3060-AJ69]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 303, 536

Abstract: Section 616 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, directs the Commission to “establish regulations governing program carriage agreements and related practices between cable operators or other multichannel video programming distributors and video programming vendors.” The Commission implemented section 616 by adopting procedures for the review of program carriage complaints as well as penalties and remedies. In the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission seeks comment on proposed revisions to or clarifications of the program carriage rules. These changes are intended to improve procedures and to advance the goals of the program carriage statute.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Maria Mullarkey, Chief, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554 ( printed page 45610)

Phone: 202 418-1067

Email: maria.mullarkey@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ69

237. IN THE MATTER OF REVITALIZATION OF THE AM RADIO SERVICE; MB DOCKET NO. 13-249 [3060-AK14]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract: This proceeding was initiated to introduce a number of improvements to the AM radio service. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposed specific technical proposals and rule revisions. In addition, the NPRM solicited ideas for improving the quality of the AM radio service. The R&O adopted technical changes and established procedures to enable AM stations to obtain an FM translator license under certain conditions. The Second R&O amended the rule setting forth the allowable locations of an FM translator rebroadcasting the signal of an AM station. The Third R&O relaxed rules pertaining to AM broadcasters deploying directional antenna arrays. The 2nd FNPRM proposed a revised interference protection standard for Class A AM stations. In 2019, the Commission proposed allowing AM stations to broadcast an all-digital signal.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Al Shuldiner, Division Chief, Audio Div., Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2700

Email: albert.shuldiner@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK14

238. AMENDMENT OF 47 CFR 73.624(G) REGARDING SUBMISSION OF FCC FORM 2100 AND 47 CFR 73.3580 REGARDING PUBLIC NOTICE OF THE FILING OF BROADCAST APPLICATION (MB DOCKET NO. 17-264) [3060-AK68]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission considers how to modernize two provisions in Part 73 of the Commission's rules governing broadcast licensees: 47 CFR 73.624(g), which establishes certain reporting obligations relating to the provision of ancillary or supplementary services, and 47 CFR 73.3580, which sets forth requirements concerning public notice of the filing of broadcast applications. Specifically, the Commission seeks comment on relieving certain television broadcasters of the obligation to submit FCC Form 2100, Schedule G, which is used to report information about the provision of ancillary or supplementary services. Also, the Commission seeks comment on whether to update or repeal 47 CFR 73.3580 to afford broadcast applicants more flexibility in how they provide required notices.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Maria Mullarkey, Chief, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1067

Email: maria.mullarkey@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK68

239. ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF MVPD COMMUNICATIONS (MB DOCKET NO. 17-317) [3060-AK70]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C., 151

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission addresses ways to modernize certain notice provisions in part 76 of the Commission's rules governing multichannel video and cable television service. The Commission makes rule changes to allow various types of written communications from cable operators to subscribers to be delivered electronically. Additionally, the Commission permits cable operators to reply to consumer requests or complaints by email in certain circumstances. The Commission also updates the requirement in the Commission's rules that requires broadcast television stations to send carriage election notices via certified mail to enable the use of email.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Lyle Elder, Attorney, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2120

Email: lyle.elder@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK70

240. REVISIONS TO POLITICAL PROGRAMMING AND RECORD-KEEPING RULES (MB DOCKET NO. 21-293) [3060-AL25]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151, 154(i), 154(j), 303, 307, 312, 315, 335, and 403

Abstract: This proceeding was initiated to update the political programming and recordkeeping rules for broadcast licensees, cable television system operators, Direct Broadcast Satellite service providers, and Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service licensees. Given the substantial growth of such programming in recent years, the updates adopted in this proceeding are intended to conform the Commission's rules with statutory amendments, increase transparency, and account for modern campaign practices.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Robert Baker, Assistant Division Chief, Policy Division, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1417

Email: robert.baker@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL25

241. FM BROADCAST RADIO SERVICE DIRECTIONAL ANTENNA PERFORMANCE VERIFICATION (MB DOCKET NO. 21-422) [3060-AL32]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission proposes to allow FM broadcasters using directional antennas ( printed page 45611) to verify the antennas' directional patterns through use of computer modeling rather than the physical modeling and measurement required under our current rules.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Thomas Nessinger, Senior Counsel, Audio Division, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2700

Email: thomas.nessinger@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL32

242. UPDATE TO PUBLICATION FOR TELEVISION BROADCAST STATION DMA DETERMINATIONS FOR CABLE AND SATELLITE CARRIAGE (MB DOCKET NO. 22-239) [3060-AL46]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151, 152, 154(i), 154(j), 303, 325, 335, 338, 339, 340, 403, and 534

Abstract: In this proceeding, the Commission considers referencing a new publication for use in determining a television station's designated market area for satellite and cable carriage under the Commission's regulations.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Kenneth Lewis, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Media Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2622

Email: kennth.lewis@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL46

243. REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL SECTION 214 AUTHORIZATIONS TO ASSESS EVOLVING NATIONAL SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, FOREIGN POLICY, AND TRADE POLICY RISKS, IB DOCKET NO. 23-119, MD DOCKET NO. 23-134 [3060-AL76]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 201 and 214; 47 U.S.C. 218 and 219; 47 U.S.C. 403 and 413

Abstract: By this Notice, the Commission proposes rules that would require carriers to renew, every 10 years, their international section 214 authority. In the alternative, the Commission seeks comment on adopting rules that would require all international section 214 authorization holders to periodically update information enabling the Commission to review the public interest and national security implications of those authorizations based on that updated information. Through these proposals, the Commission seeks to ensure that the Commission is exercising appropriate oversight of international section 214 authorization holders to safeguard U.S. telecommunications networks.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Gabrielle Kim, Attorney Advisor, Office of International Affairs, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0730

Email: gabrielle.kim@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL76

244. • REVIEW OF SUBMARINE CABLE LANDING LICENSE RULES AND PROCEDURES TO ASSESS EVOLVING NATIONAL SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, FOREIGN POLICY, AND TRADE POLICY RISKS, OI DOCKET NO. 24-523, MD DOCKET NO. 24-524 [3060-AM06]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151, 154(i), 154(j), 201-255, 303(r), 403, 413;, 47 U.S.C. 34-39; Executive Order No. 10530, section 5(a) (May 12, 1954) reprinted as amended in 3 U.S.C. 301

Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC or Commission) takes another important step to protect the Nation's submarine cable infrastructure from threats in an evolving national security and law enforcement landscape by undertaking the first major comprehensive review of the Commission's submarine cable rules since 2001. Over the last two decades, there have been substantial changes in technology, consumer expectations, international submarine cable traffic patterns, and investment in and construction of submarine cable infrastructure as well as significant evolution in national security and law enforcement threat environments. The proposed rules on which Commission seeks comment in this proceeding are intended for the Commission to determine how best to improve and streamline the submarine cable rules to facilitate deployment of submarine cables while at the same time ensuring the security, resilience, and protection of this critical infrastructure.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Desiree Hanssem, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20544

Phone: 202 418-0887

Email: desiree.hanssem@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM06

245. 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: ( printed page 45612)

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy & Licensing Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2062

Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ52

246. 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: Sections 1, 4(i), 4(j), 4(n), 201, 214, 218, 251(e)(3), 301, 303(b), 303(g), 303(j), 303(r), 307, 309, 316, 332, and 403 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended;,; 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 201 and 214; 47 U.S.C. 218 and 251(e)(3); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(b); 47 U.S.C. 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(j); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309(a) and 309(j); 47 U.S.C. 316 and 332; 47 U.S.C. 403; sections 2, 3(b) and 6-7 of the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act; 47 U.S.C. 615 note ; 47 U.S.C. 615; 47 U.S.C. 615(a) and 615(b)

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.

In January 2023, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking surrounding the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988 Lifeline), a national network of more than 200 crisis centers that helps thousands of people overcome crisis situations every day. There was a nationwide outage in December 2022 that affected Lifeline for several hours, rendering the vital service inaccessible to voice callers. This Notice proposed rules designed to ensure the Commission and life-saving crisis intervention service providing parties are able to access 988 Lifeline and receive timely and actionable information about 988 service outages.

In July 2023, the Commission adopted a Report and Order to require that 988 outages be reported in NORS and that 988 special facilities receive notification of outages. The new rules under this Report and Order became effective on January 16, 2024, except for amendments to 47 CFR 4.9. The effective date for amendments to 47 CFR 4.9 is April 15, 2025.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7790

Email: logan.bennett@fcc.gov

Jeanne Stockman, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7830

Email: jeanne.stockman@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK40

247. 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, establish an end-to-end testing program based on advancements in technology, ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of WEA, and ensure support of multilingual WEA.

In October 2022, the Commission released an FNPRM seeking comment on proposals to include security controls sufficient to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of WEA.

In April 2023, the Commission released an FNPRM seeking comment on proposals to make WEA alerts understandable to people with disabilities and people with native languages other than English and Spanish, communities that would otherwise be underserved by WEA.

In October 2023, the Commission adopted a Report and Order adopting some of the proposals from the April FNPRM. Proposals adopted include making WEA multilingual, including location-aware maps with alerting, permitting two live WEA tests per county or county equivalent per year, and creating a publicly available WEA Database which will include information about where WEA is and is not available and by what providers.

In February 2024, the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) released a FNPRM by Public Notice seeking comment on proposals for specific mechanisms to implement new multilingual WEA rules.

In April 2024, the Commission released an FNPRM seeking comment on proposals to use a new alert code for WEA for missing and endangered people (MEP).

In June 2024, the Commission announced the effective date of new WEA rules that Participating Commercial Mobile Service (CMS) Providers may support up to two Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) tests that the public receives by default per county or county equivalent per calendar year.

In June 2024, the Commission released a report about the results of the October 4, 2023 WEA nationwide tests.

In July 2024, PSHSB released a Public Notice informing CMS Providers that they may participate in no more than two WEA tests per county (or county equivalent) per calendar year that the public receives by default.

In August 2024, the Commission adopted a Report and Order permitting MEP alerts to be deployed via WEA.

On February 27, 2025, the Commission adopted a Report and Order requiring Participating CMS Providers to support alert originators to send alerts without triggering the common audio attention signal, the vibration cadence, or both, as well as providing users with the ability to always receive the vibration cadence. The Report and Order also redefines mobile device” for WEA, as well as WEA-capable mobile device. In the FNPRM, the Commission proposes to broaden the circumstances for using the Public Safety Message classification, and seeks comment about whether subscribers should be able to further customize receipt of WEA and additional steps to reduce WEA opt out.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: David Kirschner, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0695

Email: david.kirschner@fcc.gov

James Zigouris, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security ( printed page 45614) Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0697

Email: james.zigouris@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK54

248. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy & Licensing Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2062

Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL31

249. RESILIENT NETWORKS, PS DOCKET NO 21-346 [3060-AL43]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 1; 47 U.S.C. 4(i), 4(j) and 4(n) ; 47 U.S.C. 201 and 214; 47 U.S.C. 218 and 251(e)(3); 47 U.S.C. 301; 47 U.S.C. 303(b) and 303(g); 47 U.S.C. 303(j) and 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 316 and 332; 47 U.S.C. 403, sections 2, 3(b), and 6-7 of the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 ; 47 U.S.C. 615a-1 through 615b; 47 U.S.C. 615c of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 154(i)-(j) and (o); 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C 4(j); . . .

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 Mandatory Disaster Response Initiative (MDRI), which largely codified 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.

In October 2022, CTIA and the Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) filed a Petition for Clarification and Partial Reconsideration in response to the 2022 Resilient Networks R&O. Particularly, Petitioners asked that the Commission: (1) provide a list of potential providers to which the MDRI may apply; (2) provide sufficient time for wireless providers to achieve compliance (by requesting 12 months for non-small providers and 18 months for small providers); (3) align the definitions of non-small” and small” with the Commission's existing definitions of nationwide” and non-nationwide” as used in the 911 context; (4) establish the process in which the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (Bureau) will inform providers that the MDRI is active; and (5) affirm that Office of Management and Budget (OMB) review is required for all information collection obligations and that the Commission will treat all roaming arrangements as presumptively confidential under Section 4.17(d). An Order on Reconsideration was adopted in response on September 14, 2023 by the Commission to address issues raised by CTIA and CCA.

The 2023 Order on Reconsideration extended the date for compliance of implementation of all provisions of the ( printed page 45615) MDRI under section 4.17 by setting a date certain of May 1, 2024, for all subject providers, regardless of size, to achieve compliance. This subsequently rendered it unnecessary to address Petitioners' request to amend or clarify the definitions of small” or non-small” providers in the 2022 Resilient Networks R&O nor to address the request to clarify the appropriate compliance timeframe when parties to a negotiation include one small and one non-small provider. The Commission declined to shift the obligations from providers to the Commission to publish and maintain a list of providers subject to the MDRI and further declined to implement direct, individual contact by the Commission to providers when the MDRI is activated, choosing to rely instead on routine public notices. The Commission reconsidered the routine treatment of Roaming under Disaster arrangements (RuDs) and concurred with Petitioners' request to presume such agreements would be confidential when filed with the Commission.

In January 2024, the Commission adopted a Second Report and Order and Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that examined the reliability and availability of communications networks in a time of increased value in networks and growth of smart technology in contrast with rising threats and vulnerabilities of such connections. The Second Report and Order aimed to improve network reliability, resiliency and operational transparency both during and in the aftermath of disasters and outages by requiring enumerated service providers to report on their infrastructure status during emergencies and crises in DIRS when activated and to submit a final report to the Commission within 24 hours of DIRS deactivation. The accompanying Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks input from industry, public safety, and public interest groups and individuals in determining how to effectively streamline disaster reporting while addressing specific operational challenges. In its current voluntary state, while DIRS is beneficial, the Commission finds that the current regulatory, technological and interconnected network environment cannot work to its fullest potential unless we expand the aperture of who reports in the system and enhance the fidelity of data to allow for more effective decision making in response to disaster environments by requiring filings be made in emergency contexts.

In summary, the Order adopts rules to: (1) require cable communications, wireline, wireless, and interconnected VoIP providers to report their infrastructure status information daily in DIRS when the Commission activates DIRS in geographic areas in which they provide service; (2) codify, in Part 4 of the Commission's outage reporting rules, the practice that a subject provider's NORS reporting obligations are waived while they report in DIRS; and (3) require that subject providers who report in DIRS provide a single, final DIRS report to the Commission, within 24 hours of the Commission's deactivation of DIRS, that provides the status of their infrastructure identified to the Commission during the DIRS reporting period that has not yet been fully restored at the time of the deactivation. In addition, the Second Further Notice seeks to more fully develop the record and seeks comment to support future Commission action on select NORS- and DIRS-specific follow-up matters concerning: (1) whether to require television and radio broadcasters to report in NORS and DIRS subject to a simplified reporting process; (2) whether to require satellite providers to report in DIRS and whether modifications toe existing forms are warranted; (3) the extent to which FirstNet should be subject to NORS and/or DIRS reporting requirements; (4) the extent to which broadband internet access service (BIAS) providers should be required to report in NORS and/or DIRS and appropriate thresholds for such; (5) whether subject providers should be required to supply the Commission with after action” reports detailing how their networks fared during the emergency or disaster event leading to the Commission's DIRS activation; and (6) whether subject providers should be required to provide the location of mobile recovery assets during a disaster response.

In addition, the Second Further Notice seeks to more fully develop the record and seeks comment to support future Commission action on select NORS- and DIRS-specific follow-up matters concerning: (1) whether to require television and radio broadcasters to report in NORS and DIRS subject to a simplified reporting process; (2) whether to require satellite providers to report in DIRS and whether modifications to existing forms are warranted; (3) the extent to which FirstNet should be subject to NORS and/or DIRS reporting requirements; (4) the extent to which broadband internet access service (BIAS) providers should be required to report in NORS and/or DIRS and appropriate thresholds for such reporting; (5) whether subject providers should be required to supply the Commission with after action reports detailing how their networks fared during the emergency or disaster event leading to the Commission's DIRS activation; and (6) whether subject providers should be required to provide the location of mobile recovery assets during a disaster response.

Notice of OMB approval and announcement of compliance date were posted in the Federal Register on January 1, 2025. Rules were effective on February 20, 2025.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Logan Bennett, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7790

Email: logan.bennett@fcc.gov

Joshua Gehret, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7816

Email: joshua.gehret@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL43 ( printed page 45616)

250. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy and Licensing Div, PSHSB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2062

Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL52

251. NEXT GENERATION 9-1-1, PS DOCKET NO. 21-479, FCC 23-47 [3060-AL67]

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission (the FCC or Commission) proposes rules that will advance the nationwide transition to Next Generation 911 (NG911). The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking ( NPRM) proposes requiring certain service providers to complete all translation and routing to deliver 911 calls in the requested internet Protocol (IP)-based format to an Emergency Services IP network (ESInet) or other designated point(s) that allow emergency calls to be answered upon request of 911 authorities who have certified the capability to accept IP-based 911 communications. In addition, the NPRM proposes to require service providers to transmit all 911 calls to destination point(s) in those networks designated by a 911 authority upon request of 911 authorities who have certified the capability to accept IP-based 911 communications. Finally, the NPRM proposes that in the absence of agreements by states or localities on alternative cost recovery mechanisms, service providers must cover the costs of transmitting 911 calls to the point(s) designated by a 911 authority.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Brenda Boykin, Deputy Chief, Policy & Licensing Division, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2062

Email: brenda.boykin@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL67

252. REPORTING ON BORDER GATEWAY PROTOCOL RISK MITIGATION PROGRESS, PS DOCKET NO. 24-146; SECURE INTERNET ROUTING, PS DOCKET NO. 22-90 [3060-AL83]

Legal Authority: SecS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 201, 202, 208, 209, 214, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220(a), 229, 251, 254, 255, 256, 301, 303, 307, 332, and 333, of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 153; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201 and 202; 47 U.S.C. 208 and 209; 47 U.S.C. 214 and 216; 47 U.S.C. 217 and 218; 47 U.S.C. 219 and 220(a); 47 U.S.C. 229 and 251; 47 U.S.C. 254 and 255; 47 U.S.C. 256 ; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 333

Abstract: On June 6, 2024, FCC adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to increase the security of the information routed across the internet and promote national security by requiring providers of broadband internet access service to report on their progress in addressing vulnerabilities in the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), the technical protocol used to route information across the internet. BGP's initial decades-old design, which remains widely deployed today, does not include intrinsic security features to ensure trust in the information that is relied upon to exchange traffic among independently managed networks on the internet. Bad actors can in turn deliberately falsify reachability information to redirect traffic, resulting in a BGP hijacks” that can expose Americans' personal information; enable theft, extortion, and state-level espionage; and disrupt services upon which the public or critical infrastructure sectors rely. To help address these vulnerabilities, the NPRM proposes to require broadband providers to create confidential reports on the steps they have taken, and plan to undertake, to implement BGP security measures that utilize the Resource Public Key Infrastructure (RPKI). The nation's largest broadband providers would also be required to file specific public data on a quarterly basis demonstrating their BGP risk mitigation progress.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: James D. Schlichting, Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1580

Email: james.schlichting@fcc.gov

George Donato, Associate Division Chief, CCR, Federal Communications Commission, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0729

Email: george.donato@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL83

253. CYBERSECURITY LABELING FOR INTERNET THINGS, PS DOCKET NO. 23-239 [3060-AL84]

Legal Authority: Secs. 1, 2, 4(i), 4(n), 302, 303(r), 312, 333, and 503, of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(m); 47 U.S.C. 302a; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 312; 47 U.S.C. 333; 47 U.S.C. 503; the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act of 2020; 15 U.S.C. 276g-3a through 278g-3e

Abstract: On March 14, 2024, FCC Adopted Report and Order (R&O), and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) for Cybersecurity Labeling for internet Things was released on March 15, 2024. Consumers rely heavily on internet-connected products to help them manage many aspects of day-to-day life, including home safety, health, recreation, and personal convenience. With this convenience, however, comes risk. Internet of Things (IoT) products are susceptible to a wide range of relatively common security vulnerabilities that are increasingly exploited by cybercriminals who are invading people's privacy and threatening national security.

In July 2024, the Commission published a Public Notice seeking comment on certain additional items to further the efficient and timely rollout of the FCC IoT Labeling Program, including the format of Cybersecurity Label Administrator (CLA) and Lead Administrator applications; filling fees for CLA applications; criteria for selecting CLAs and the Lead Administrator; CLA sharing of Lead Administrator expenses; Lead Administrator neutrality; processes for withdrawal of CLA and Lead Administrator approvals; recognition of Cybersecurity Testing Laboratories (CyberLABs) outside the United States; complaint processes; confidentiality and security requirements; and the IoT registry.

In September 2024, the Commission published a Public Notice in the Federal Register opening a 15-business day filing window for CLA and Lead Administrator applications and adopting additional cybersecurity risk management plan requirements for CLAs and the Lead Administrator.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Zoe Li, Attorney Advisor, PSHSB, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2490

Email: zoe.li@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL84

254. PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO SERVICE RULES GOVERNING PUBLIC SAFETY NARROWBAND OPERATIONS IN THE 769-775 AND 799-805 MHZ BANDS; PS DOCKET NO. 13-87 [3060-AK19]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 160; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 337(a); 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract: This proceeding seeks to amend the Commission's rules to promote spectrum efficiency, interoperability, and flexibility in 700 MHz public safety narrowband operations (769-775 and 799-805 MHz).

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Brian Marenco, Electronics Engineer, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0838

Email: brian.marenco@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK19

255. 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 ( printed page 45618) 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0803

Email: clay.decell@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK59

256. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Cindy Spiers, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1593

Email: cindy.spiers@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK84

257. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Cindy Spiers, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1593

Email: cindy.spiers@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK89

258. 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 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (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 ( printed page 45619) technologies and new types of commercial operations, including rendezvous and proximity operations. The Report and Order (R&O) in this proceeding adopted a number of these proposals. In addition a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) sought comment on topics such as collision risk and casualty risk for multi-satellite systems, deorbit timelines, maneuverability requirements, and indemnification and post mission disposal bond issues. The Commission issued a Second R&O adopting a 5-year de-orbit timeframe for satellites ending their missions in or passing through the low-Earth orbit region. Three petitions for reconsideration were filed in response to the initial R&O, which were all subsequently denied. The Commission sought to refresh the record via public notice concerning various rules proposed in the FNPRM that was adopted with the initial R&O in 2020.

Timetable:

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: alexandra.horn@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK90

259. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Stephanie Neville, Attorney Advisor, Satellite Programs and Policy Div., Space Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1672

Email: stephanie.neville@fcc.gov

Sean O'More, Attorney Advisor, International Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 245 418-2453

Email: sean.omore@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL28

260. 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: In 2021, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) seeking comment on revisions to the spectrum sharing requirements among non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO), fixed-satellite service (FSS) systems. The NPRM proposed 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 proposed to adopt a rule providing that later-round NGSO FSS systems will have to protect earlier-round systems, and invited comment on how to define such protection. In addition, the NPRM sought 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.

In 2023, the Commission released a Report and Order (R&O) in this proceeding. The R&O adopted rules clarifying protection obligations between NGSO FSS systems authorized through different processing rounds by using a degraded throughput methodology, and subjected those protections to a sunset period. After the sunset period, new entrants authorized in later processing rounds would share spectrum on an equal basis with earlier-round incumbents. The R&O also clarified that all NGSO FSS operators licensed or granted market access in the United States must coordinate with each other in good faith, regardless of their processing round status, and explained the Commission's expectations for information sharing during this good-faith coordination. In an accompanying Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM), the Commission sought comment on which specific metrics should be used to define the protection afforded to an earlier-round NGSO FSS system from a later-round system, and sought specific comment on implementation of the degraded throughput methodology.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0803

Email: clay.decell@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL41

261. 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. In ( printed page 45620) September 2023 the Commission adopted a Report and Order implementing its proposed changes as well as establishing timeframes for placing space and earth stations on public notice, creating a new, streamlined processing framework for earth station operators to add satellite points of communication, and establishing a Transparency Initiative led by the Space Bureau to provide clarity and access to applicants. The Commission also adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to seek comment on additional proposed changes to further expedite satellite and earth station licensing.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Julia Malette, Attorney Advisor, Space Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2453

Email: julia.malette@fcc.gov

Clay DeCell, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, International Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0803

Email: clay.decell@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL51

262. AMENDMENT OF PARTS 2 AND 25 OF THE COMMISSION'S RULES TO ENABLE NGSO FIXED-SATELLITE SERVICE (SPACE-TO-EARTH) OPERATIONS IN THE 17.3-17.8 GHZ BAND [3060-AL79]

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

Abstract: Amendment of parts 2 and 25 of the Commission's Rules to Enable NGSO Fixed-Satellite Service (Space-to-Earth) Operations in the 17.3-17.8 GHz Band.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Carolyn Mahoney, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Space Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7168

Email: carolyn.mahoney@fcc.gov

Stephanie Neville, Attorney Advisor, Satellite Programs and Policy Div., Space Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1672

Email: stephanie.neville@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL79

263. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Melissa Conway, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Div., Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2887

Email: melissa.conway@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK06

264. 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 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”.

The 2024 NPRM proposes to modify the Commission's rules to reflect the current federal protection approach and solicits comment on potential updates to the technical and service rules governing the Citizens Broadband Radio Service.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Paul Powell, Assistant Chief, Mobility Division, WTB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1613

Email: paul.powell@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK12

265. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: John Schauble, Deputy Chief, Broadband Division, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0797

Email: john.schauble@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK44

266. 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 ( printed page 45622) 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Paul Powell, Assistant Chief, Mobility Division, WTB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1613

Email: paul.powell@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK76

267. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Christine Parola, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7851

Email: christine.parola@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK92

268. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Allison Jones, Associate Division Chief, CIPD, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1571

Email: allison.jones@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL29

269. EXPANDING FLEXIBLE USE OF THE 12.2-12.7 GHZ BAND, (WT DOCKET NO. 20-443) [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 Federal Communications Commission (Commission or FCC) finds that it is not in the public interest to add a mobile allocation to permit a two-way terrestrial 5G service in the 12.2 GHz band based on the current record and seeks further comment on how it could facilitate more robust terrestrial operations in the 12.212.7 GHz band. The item specifically seeks comment on how its proposals may promote or inhibit advances in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, as well as the scope of the Commission's relevant legal authority.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Madelaine Maior, Assistant Division Chief, Broadband Div., WTB, Federal Communications ( printed page 45623) Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1466

Email: madelaine.maior@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL40

270. FACILITATING SHARED USE IN THE 3,100-3,550 MHZ BAND, (WT DOCKET NO. 19-348) [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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Morgan Mendenhall, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0154

Email: morgan.mendenhall@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL57

271. SHARED USE OF THE 42-42.5 GHZ BAND (WT DOCKET NO. 23-158, GN DOCKET NO. 14-177) [3060-AL68]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 thru 152; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 302a; 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 309

Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission seeks comment on how innovative, non-exclusive spectrum access models might be deployed in the 42 GHz band (42-42.5 GHz) to provide increased access to high-band spectrum, particularly by smaller wireless service providers, and to support efficient, intensive use of the band. The Commission also seeks comment on how potential sharing and licensing regimes might lower barriers to entry for smaller or emerging wireless service providers, encourage competition, and prevent spectrum warehousing.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Catherine Schroeder, Attorney Advisor, Broadband Div., Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 428-1956

Email: catherine.schroeder@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL68

272. SINGLE NETWORK FUTURE: SUPPLEMENTAL COVERAGE FROM SPACE, GN DOCKET NO. 23-65 [3060-AL69]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 157; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 308; 47 U.S.C. 309 and 310

Abstract: In the 2023 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposed a new regulatory framework for Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) that would facilitate the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks through partnerships between satellite operators and terrestrial service providers on flexible-use spectrum licensed to terrestrial services. The proposed framework would enable expanded coverage to a terrestrial licensee's subscribers, especially in remote, unserved, and underserved areas, and would increase the availability of emergency communications.

In the 2024 Report and Order, the Commission adopted a regulatory framework for SCS that will serve important public interest goals, including expanding the reach of communications services, particularly emergency services, so that connectivity and emergency assistance is available in more remote places. The framework will also spur advancements in space-based technologies that will position the United States as a global leader in this arena, and promote the innovative and efficient use of our nation's spectrum resources. The Commission authorized SCS only in certain spectrum bands and only where one or more terrestrial licensees together holding all licenses on the relevant channel throughout a defined geographically independent area lease access to their spectrum rights to a participating satellite operator. The Report and Order also imposed technical rules in an effort to mitigate harmful interference.

In the Report and Order, in recognition that this new offering has the potential to bring life-saving connectivity to remote areas, the Commission adopted interim 911 call and text routing requirements to ensure that help is available to those who need it today while the Commission works toward enabling automatic location-based routing of all emergency communications. In the 2024 Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission sought to further develop the record on 911 service for SCS connections, including the use of location-based routing to route SCS voice calls directly to an appropriate Public Safety Answering Point. In addition, the Commission sought further comment on procedures related to the protection of radio astronomy.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alice Koethe, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1022

Email: alice.koethe@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL69

273. ALASKA CONNECT FUND NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING [3060-AL81]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 thru 152; 47 U.S.C. 154 thru 155; 47 U.S.C. 201 thru 206; 47 U.S.C. 214; 47 U.S.C. 218 thru 220; 47 U.S.C. 251 thru 252; 47 U.S.C. 254 and 256; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract: On October 19, 2023, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to explore how the universal service high-cost support program can continue funding fixed and mobile broadband services in Alaska one of the hardest to serve areas in the country. The Commission sought comment to better understand the changes, including technology and the broadband funding landscape, that have occurred in Alaska since 2016 when the Commission adopted the currently operative, ten-year Alaska Plan, which, alongside two other fixed-high cost programs in Alaska, is scheduled to wind-down in the next few years. The proposed rulemaking sought comment on a number of issues to help the Commission determine the most effective methodologies and uses for future universal service funding for high-cost fixed and mobile services in Alaska. As part of the rulemaking, the Commission will leverage data from the agency's new and improved broadband coverage map and broadband funding map, which provide a more accurate picture of where service is and is not, and where deployment has already been funded, in Alaska.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Matt Warner, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2419

Email: matthew.warner@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL81

274. INDIAN PEAK PROPERTIES LLC PETITIONS FOR DECLARATORY RULING SEEKING PREEMPTION UNDER THE RULE GOVERNING OVER-THE-AIR RECEPTION DEVICES [3060-AL82]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 155(c); 47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 202(a); 47 U.S.C. 205; 47 U.S.C. 251; 47 U.S.C. 253; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 332; Pub. L. 104-104, 207, 706, 110 Stat. 56, 114, 153

Abstract: In its Application for Review, Indian Peak sought review of decisions by the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau and the Media Bureau to deny its petition for protection under the Over-the-Air-Reception-Device (OTARD) rule of antennas it had placed on the roof of a single family home in a residential neighborhood. Indian Peak was operating the home as a commercial communications site. The Order on Review denies in part and dismisses in part the application for review. In denying the application for review, the Order on Review clarifies that to qualify for protection under the OTARD rule, the equipment must benefit a human end-user on the premises.

Section 207 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 directed the Commission to promulgate regulations to prohibit restrictions that impair a viewer's ability to receive video programming services through devices designed for over-the-air reception of television broadcast signals, multichannel multipoint distribution service, or direct broadcast satellite services. To meet this requirement, the Commission adopted the OTARD rule. The Commission subsequently expanded the scope of the rule so that it now covers wireless broadband antennas including hub and relay antennas. Beginning in 2004, when the rule was expanded to cover equipment designed to receive wireless broadband signal, the Commission began using the term customer in place of viewer.

The facts pled by Indian Peak were vague but indicated that the property was largely an unmanned communications site with equipment that was controlled remotely by offsite personnel. In the Order on Review, the Commission clarifies that the use of the term viewer in section 207 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 signaled Congress's intent to protect the rights of a human being to receive signal, and therefore to qualify for protection under the OTARD rule an applicant must plead facts sufficient to establish that the equipment provides signal to a human end-user on the premises. The Commission's use of the term customer in place of viewer does not alter this basic requirement of the rule.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Allison Jones, Associate Division Chief, CIPD, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1571

Email: allison.jones@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL82

275. SUPPORTING SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE, FURTHER NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING, WC DOCKET NO. 22-238 [3060-AL90]

Legal Authority: Safe Connections Act of 2022; Pub. L. 117-223; 116 Stat. 2280 (SCA); 47 U.S.C. 345

Abstract: The FCC seeks comment on additional action (on the SCA) it can take to help survivors of domestic violence access safe and affordable connectivity, particularly in the context of connected car services which may be used to stalk, harass, and revictimize survivors of domestic violence.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes ( printed page 45625)

Agency Contact: Garnet Hanly, Division Chief, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0995

Email: garnet.hanly@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL90

276. • EXPANDING USE OF THE 12.7-13.25 GHZ BAND FOR MOBILE BROADBAND OR OTHER EXPANDED USE, GN DOCKET NO. 22-352 [3060-AL92]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 152 ; 47 U.S.C. 154 ; 47 U.S.C. 155 ; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 302a; 47 U.S.C. 303 and 304; 47 U.S.C. 307 ; 47 U.S.C. 309 and 310; 47 U.S.C. 316

Abstract: The Commission seeks comment on various proposed means for transitioning some or all of the 12.7 GHz band to mobile broadband and other expanded uses. The Commission also seeks comment on changes to the Commission's rules that could promote expanded us of the band on a shared basis.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Simon Banyai, Attorney Advisor, Broadband Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1443

Email: simon.banyai@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL92

277. • REVIEW OF THE COMMISSION'S RULES GOVERNING THE 896/901/935-940 MHZ BAND, WT DOCKET NO. 17-200 [3060-AL93]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 and 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and 154(j); 47 U.S.C. 301 and 302a(a); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 thru 310; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 324 ; 47 U.S.C. 332

Abstract: This proceeding seeks to establish a voluntary, negotiation-based process to transition the entire ten megahertz in the 896/901/935-940 MHz Band for broadband use in counties where broadband proponents and incumbent licensees reach private agreements to do so.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Morgan Mendenhall, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0154

Email: morgan.mendenhall@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL93

278. • ALLOCATION AND SERVICE RULES FOR THE 1675-1680 MHZ BAND, WT DOCKET NO. 19-116 [3060-AL94]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 152 ; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 160 ; 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 302a; 47 U.S.C. 303 ; 47 U.S.C. 307 thru 310; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 319; 47 U.S.C. 324; 47 U.S.C. 332 and 333; 47 U.S.C. 1403 and 1404; 47 U.S.C. 1451

Abstract: The proceeding seeks to reallocate spectrum in the 1675-1680 MHz band for shared use between incumbent federal operations and new, non-federal fixed or mobile operations.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Andrew McArdell, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1576

Email: andrew.mcardell@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL94

279. • FACILITATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY, WT DOCKET NO. 24-629 [3060-AL95]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 thru 310; 47 U.S.C. 316; 47 U.S.C. 318; 47 U.S.C. 332

Abstract: This proceeding seeks to modernize certain Commission rules to facilitate the deployment of advanced air mobility and uncrewed aircraft systems.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Christine Parola, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7851

Email: christine.parola@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL95

280. • AMENDMENT OF PART 97 OF THE COMMISSION'S AMATEUR RADIO SERVICE RULES TO PERMIT GREATER FLEXIBILITY IN DATA COMMUNICATIONS, WT DOCKET NO. 16-239 [3060-AL97]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 155; 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract: This proceeding seeks to implement changes to the baud rate limitation for certain Amateur Radio Service bands.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Scott Mackoul, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7498 ( printed page 45626)

Email: scott.mackoul@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL97

281. • AMENDMENT OF SECTIONS 0.453(D)(4) AND 0.457(F) OF THE COMMISSION'S RULES CONCERNING ELECTRONICALLY STORED APPLICATION AND LICENSING DATA, WT DOCKET NO. 15-81 [3060-AL98]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154; 47 U.S.C. 303 ; 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract: This proceeding seeks to implement changes to information collected and/or made available for public inspection for licensing in the Amateur Radio Service.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Scott Mackoul, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7498

Email: scott.mackoul@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL98

282. • PARTITIONING, DISAGGREGATION, AND LEASING OF SPECTRUM, WT DOCKET NO. 19-38 [3060-AL99]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 310 ; 47 U.S.C. 312; 47 U.S.C. 503; 47 U.S.C. 1501 to 1512

Abstract: This proceeding seeks to increase spectrum access to promote greater competition in the provision of wireless services, and facilitate increased availability of advanced wireless services in rural areas.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Stephanie Asous, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2155

Email: stephanie.asous@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL99

283. • FACILITATING ACCESS TO SPECTRUM FOR OFFSHORE USES AND OPERATIONS, WT DOCKET NO. 22-204 [3060-AM00]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 152 ; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 301 to 303; 47 U.S.C. 332; 47 U.S.C. 403

Abstract: The FCC seeks input on whether changes in our rules and policies are needed to facilitate the development of offshore commercial and private networks. The FCC seeks to gather information on offshore operation use cases and their potential, including, but not limited to, the type of offshore uses that require spectrum, the appropriate spectrum bands for offshore uses, and potential assignment mechanisms.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Alice Koethe, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1022

Email: alice.koethe@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM00

284. • ALLOCATION OF SPECTRUM FOR NON-FEDERAL SPACE LAUNCH OPERATIONS, ET DOCKET NO. 13-115 [3060-AM02]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 152 ; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 155(c); 47 U.S.C. 301 ; 47 U.S.C. 303(c) and 303(f); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); Pub. L. 118-85, 138 Stat 1546 2

Abstract: This proceeding establishes a spectrum allocation and licensing framework to provide regulatory certainty and improved efficiency, as well as to promote innovation and investment in the United States commercial space launch industry.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Mark DeSantis, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0678

Email: mark.desantis@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM02

285. • SPECTRUM RULES AND POLICIES FOR THE OPERATION OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS, WT DOCKET NO. 22-323 [3060-AM03]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 ; 47 U.S.C. 154 ; 47 U.S.C. 301 and 303; 47 U.S.C. 307 and 310

Abstract: This proceeding seeks to (1) develop rules enabling the use of the 5030-5091 MHz band for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS); (2) determine whether the Commission's current rules governing flexible-use bands are adequate and appropriate to ensure co-existence of terrestrial mobile operations and UAS use; and (3) address the need of certain UAS operators to obtain a license in the aeronautical VHF band to communicate with air traffic control and other aircraft.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Peter Trachtenberg, Attorney Advisor, Mobility Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7369

Email: peter.trachtenberg@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AM03

286. AMENDMENT OF THE COMMISSION'S RULES TO IMPROVE PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS IN THE 800 MHZ BAND, AND TO CONSOLIDATE THE 800 MHZ AND 900 MHZ BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL/LAND TRANSPORTATION POOL CHANNELS [3060-AJ22]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 303; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 332

Abstract: This action adopts rules that retain the current site-based licensing paradigm for the 900 MHz B/ILT “white space”; adopts interference protection rules applicable to all licensees operating in the 900 MHz B/ILT spectrum; and lifts, on a rolling basis, the freeze placed on applications for new 900 MHz B/ILT licenses in September 2004—the lift being tied to the completion of rebanding in each 800 MHz National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee (NPSPAC) region.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Joyce Jones, Attorney Advisor, OET, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1327

Email: joyce.jones@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ22

287. 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)

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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Morgan Mendenhall, Attorney Advisor, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0154

Email: morgan.mendenhall@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ87

288. MODIFYING EMISSIONS LIMITS FOR THE 24.25-24.45 GHZ AND 24.75-25.25 GHZ BANDS (ET DOCKET NO. 21-186) [3060-AL80]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154(i); 47 U.S.C. 201; 47 U.S.C. 302; 47 U.S.C. 302(a) and 302(r) ; 47 U.S.C. 308; 47 U.S.C. 309; 47 U.S.C. 333

Abstract: In this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Federal Communications Commission propose to implement certain decisions regarding the 24.25-27.5 GHz band made in the World Radiocommunication Conference held by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 2019 (WRC-19). Specifically, it proposes to align part 30 of the Commission's rules for mobile operations with the Resolution 750 limits on unwanted emissions into the passive 23.6-24.0 GHz band that were adopted at WRC-19. These proposed rule changes would help to facilitate the protection of passive sensors used for weather forecasting and scientific research in the 23.6 GHz-24.0 GHz band, while continuing to promote flexible commercial use of the 24.25-24.45 GHz and 24.75-25.25 GHz bands.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Simon Banyai, Attorney Advisor, Broadband Division, Wireless Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1443

Email: simon.banyai@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL80

289. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Melissa Kirkel, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7958

Fax: 202 418-1413

Email: melissa.kirkel@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AG43

290. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Edward Krachmer, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1525

Email: edward.krachmer@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AH44

291. 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 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 ( printed page 45629) Commission's December 2018 Report and Order.

On July 1, 2024, the Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order proposing to extend the separations freeze through December 31, 2030 and renewing existing outstanding referrals of comprehensive and interim separations reform to the Joint Board.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Irina Asoskov, Assistant Division Chief, Pricing Policy Div., Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7122

Fax: 202 418-1413

Email: irina.asoskov@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AJ06

292. 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: On October 22, 2015, the Federal Communications Commission (the Commission) adopted the Second Report and Order, which included 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. The Commission set caps on all interstate and intrastate calling rates for CS, 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, 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 a 2016 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 (automated payment fees, single-call and related fees, live agent fees, paper billing fees; and third-party financial transaction fees) generally cannot be practically segregated between interstate and intrastate inmate telephone calls. Accordingly, the Commission prohibited ICS providers from imposing ancillary service fees higher than the Commission's caps, or imposing fees for additional ancillary services unless imposed in connection with purely intrastate inmate telephone service calls. The Order also reinstated a rule prohibiting providers from marking up third-party fees for single-call services; reinstated rule language that prohibits providers from marking up mandatory taxes or fees that they pass on to inmate telephone service consumers; and amended certain of the lCS 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 lCS calls for the first time, establish a waiver process for providers, and sought comment on a further mandatory data collection.

On November 23, 2020, Global Tel*Link Corporation (GTL) filed a petition for reconsideration of the August 6, 2020 Order on Remand.

On May 24, 2021, the Commission released the Third Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration and Fifth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. In the 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; (3) eliminated separate treatment of collect calls, ( printed page 45630) 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 obtainmore uniform cost data.

In the Order on Reconsideration, the Commission denied GTL's petition for reconsideration of a passage from the 2020 Remand Order, reminding providers that the jurisdictional nature of a call, depends on the physical location of the endpoints of the call and not on the area code or NXX prefix of the telephone number associated with the account . The Commission reaffirmed the use of its end-to-end analysis to determine the jurisdiction of calls in setting rates for ICS calls.

In the Fifth Further Notice, the Commission sought comment on (1) requiring calling service providers to provide access to all forms of Telecommunications Relay Services; (2) how the Commission should set permanent per-minute rate caps for interstate and international ICS; (3) site commission costs for facilities and site commission reform generally; (4) the costs of providing services to jails with average daily populations of fewer than 1,000 incarcerated people; (5) whether and how the Commission should reform its ancillary service charge caps; (6) whether to institute a recurring periodic data collection; and, (7) whether some providers have market power in 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, which 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.

On January 18, 2022, WCB adopted an Order implementing the Third Mandatory Data Collection to enable the Commission to set permanent interstate and international ICS rate caps and ancillary service charge caps.

On January 5, 2023, the President signed the Martha Wright-Reed Just and Reasonable Communications Act of 2022, which expanded the scope of the Commission's jurisdiction to ensure all IPCS rates and charges are just and reasonable and to include any audio and video IPCS, including intrastate IPCS and certain advanced communications services, including video IPCS.

On March 17, 2023, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order seeking comment on how to interpret the Martha Wright-Reed Act's expansion of the Commission's authority to regulate audio and video IPCS to ensure just and reasonable IPCS rates, charges and associated practices. It also reaffirmed the Commission's prior delegation of data collection authority to update and restructure the previous data collection.

On July 22, 2024, the Commission released a Report and Order, Order on Reconsideration, Clarification and Waiver, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) to implement the Martha Wright-Reed Act. In the Report and Order, the Commission adopted rules addressing the rates, charges and associated practices for all intrastate, interstate, and international audio and video IPCS, including video visitation services. The reforms include adopting permanent rate caps for audio IPCS and interim rate caps for video; prohibiting IPCS providers from making site commission payments associated with IPCS and preempting state and local laws and regulations requiring such commissions; prohibiting IPCS providers from imposing any separate ancillary service charges on IPCS consumers; strengthening the Commission's requirements for access to IPCS by incarcerated people with disabilities; permitting IPCS providers to offer optional alternate pricing plans that comply with the rate caps; strengthening existing consumer disclosure and inactive account requirements; revising the existing annual reporting and certification requirements; facilitating enforcement of the new IPCS rules; and a delegation of authority to WCB, the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB), and OEA. The Order on Reconsideration, Clarification and Waiver addressed and resolved petitions pending in the proceeding addressing aspects of the Commission's previous ICS orders.

The FNPRM sought comment on establishing permanent rate caps for video services, including an additional mandatory data collection; further disaggregation of the very small jail tier adopted in the Report and Order; quality of service issues, including the scope of the Commission's authority to address quality of service issues; expanding the definitions of jails and prisons to capture the full universe of confinement facilities such as civil commitment, residential, group and nursing facilities; the treatment of unused balances in IPCS accounts, including whether to require providers to allow account holders to designate a family member or other individual as an additional person eligible to receive refunds; whether to adopt a uniform additive to our IPCS rate caps to account for correctional facility costs; and other matters.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: David Zesiger, Deputy Division Chief, PPD, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2081

Email: david.zesiger@fcc.gov

Erik Raven-Hansen, Assistant Division Chief, Pricing Policy Division, Wireline Comp., Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1532

Email: erik.raven-hansen@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK08

293. RESTORING INTERNET FREEDOM, WC DOCKET NO. 17-108; PROTECTING AND PROMOTING THE OPEN INTERNET, GN DOCKET NO. 14-28; SAFEGUARDING AND SECURING THE OPEN INTERNET, WC DOCKET NO. 23-320 [3060-AK21]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151; 47 U.S.C. 154(i) and (j); 47 U.S.C. 201(b); 47 U.S.C. 153; 47 U.S.C. 303(r); 47 U.S.C. 1302

Abstract: The Commission adopted a Declaratory Ruling, Order, Report and Order, and Order on Reconsideration that largely reestablishes the framework the Commission adopted in 2015 for classifying broadband service and protecting the open internet. The Declaratory Ruling classifies broadband internet access service as a telecommunications service and mobile broadband internet access service as a commercial mobile service, finding that reclassification would provide the Commission with additional authority to safeguard national security, advance public safety, protect consumers, and facilitate broadband deployment. It determined that such classification represents the best reading of the text of the Act, accords with Commission and court precedent, and is fully justified under the Commission's longstanding authority to classify services subject to its jurisdiction. The Order broadly forbears from applying Title II provisions to broadband internet access service, largely consistent with the 2015 forbearance approach, including those involving rate regulation, tariffing, unbundling of last-mile facilities, and cost accounting rules, while retaining statutory authority to address national security and public safety concerns, including under section 214 of the Communications Act. The Report and Order reestablishes a national regulatory approach to protect the open internet by restoring straightforward, clear rules that prohibit broadband internet access service providers from engaging in blocking, throttling, or paid or affiliated prioritization arrangements, including throttling practices that speed up certain content. It also reinstates a general conduct standard that would prohibit unreasonable interference or unreasonable disadvantage to consumers or edge providers. Additionally, the Order adopts enhancements to the transparency rule, makes clear that the Commission will employ a case-by-case review under sections 201 and 202 to ensure internet traffic exchange practices do not harm the open internet, and establishes a multi-faceted enforcement framework. The Order on Reconsideration partially grants and otherwise dismisses as moot several petitions for reconsideration filed in response to the Commission's 2021 remand Order.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Chris Laughlin, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-2193

Fax: 202 418-1413

Email: chris.laughlin@fcc.gov

Melissa Kirkel, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7958

Fax: 202 418-1413

Email: melissa.kirkel@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK21

294. 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 ( printed page 45633) retirement notices and certifications; and (vi) harmonized the timeline for competitive LEC discontinuances caused by incumbent LEC network changes.

On August 2, 2018, the Commission adopted a Third Report and Order and Declaratory Ruling (Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order) establishing a new framework for the vast majority of pole attachments governed by Federal law by instituting a one-touch make-ready regime, in which a new attacher may elect to perform all simple work to prepare a pole for new wireline attachments in the communications space. This new framework includes safeguards to promote coordination among parties and ensures that new attachers perform work safely and reliably. The Commission retained its multi-party pole attachment process for attachments that are complex or above the communications space of a pole, but made significant modifications to speed deployment, promote accurate billing, expand the use of self-help for new attachers when attachment deadlines are missed, and reduce the likelihood of coordination failures that lead to unwarranted delays. The Commission also improved its pole attachment rules by codifying and redefining Commission precedent that requires utilities to allow attachers to overlash existing wires, thus maximizing the usable space on the pole; eliminating outdated disparities between the pole attachment rates that incumbent carriers must pay compared to other similarly-situated cable and telecommunications attachers; and clarifying that the Commission will preempt, on an expedited case-by-case basis, State and local laws that inhibit the rebuilding or restoration of broadband infrastructure after a disaster. The Commission also adopted a Declaratory Ruling that interpreted section 253(a) of the Communications Act to prohibit State and local express and de facto moratoria on the deployment of telecommunications services or facilities and directed the Wireline Competition and Wireless Telecommunications Bureaus to act promptly on petitions challenging specific alleged moratoria. Numerous parties filed appeals of the Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order, and the appeals were consolidated in the U.S. Court of Appeals of the Ninth Circuit. On August 12, 2020, the Ninth Circuit issued an opinion upholding the Wireline Infrastructure Third Report and Order in all respects.

On August 8, 2018, Public Knowledge filed a Petition for Reconsideration of the Second Report and Order and Motion to Hold in Abeyance. On October 20, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) adopted a Declaratory Ruling, Order on Reconsideration, and Order. In the Declaratory Ruling, the Bureau clarified that any carrier seeking to discontinue legacy voice service to a community or part of a community that is the last retail provider of such legacy TDM service to that community or part of the community is subject to the Commission's technology transition discontinuance rules, including the requirements to receive streamlined treatment of its discontinuance application. In the Order on Reconsideration, the Bureau denied the Public Knowledge Petition for Reconsideration because all of Public Knowledge's arguments were fully considered, and rejected, by the Commission in the underlying proceeding. It also dismissed as moot the accompanying motion to have the Commission hold that Order in abeyance pending the outcome of the appeal that the Ninth Circuit ultimately denied.

In September 2019, CTIA filed a Petition for Declaratory Ruling seeking clarification of certain issues raised in the 2018 Third Report and Order. On July 29, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Declaratory Ruling clarifying that (1) the imposition of a blanket ban” by a utility on attachments to any portion of a utility pole is inconsistent with the federal requirement that a denial of access . . . be specific” to a particular request; and (2) while utilities and attachers have the flexibility to negotiate terms in their pole attachment agreements that differ from the requirements in the Commission's rules, a utility cannot use its significant negotiating leverage to require an attacher to give up rights to which the attacher is entitled under the rules without the attacher obtaining a corresponding benefit.

On July 20, 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Declaratory Ruling filed on July 16, 2020, by NCTA The internet & Television Association. NCTA asked the Commission to declare that: (1) pole owners must share in the cost of pole replacements in unserved areas pursuant to section 224 of the Communications Act, section 1.1408(b) of the Commission's rules, and Commission precedent; (2) pole attachment complaints arising in unserved areas should be prioritized through placement on the Accelerated Docket under section 1.736 of the Commission's rules; and (3) section 1.1407(b) of the Commission's rules authorizes the Commission to order any pole owner to complete a pole replacement within a specified period of time or designate an authorized contractor to do so. Comments on the NCTA Petition were due by September 2, 2020, and reply comments by September 17, 2020.

On 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 ( printed page 45634) 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.

On December 13, 2023, the Commission adopted a Fourth Report and Order, Declaratory Ruling, and Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking that takes a number of actions, makes a number of clarifications, and seeks comment on further actions designed to accelerate the deployment of next-generation networks and services trough removing barriers to infrastructure investment.

On January 19, 2024, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Reconsideration filed by the Edison Electric Institute asking the Commission to reconsider the Declaratory Ruling to (1) clearly define the narrow circumstances in which a utility pole owner is required to provide a copy of its easement to an attacher that seeks to access a pole within such easement; and (2) remove or clarify its ruling that a pole replacement is not `necessitated solely' by an attachment requires” if a utility's previous or contemporaneous change to its internal construction standards necessitates replacement of an existing pole. Deadlines for filing comments and reply comments were set for February 13, 2024 and February 23, 2024, respectively.

On February 16, 2024, the Wireline Competition Bureau issued a Public Notice seeking comment on a Petition for Reconsideration filed by the Concerned Coalition of Utilities asking the Commission to reconsider the Fourth Report and Order to eliminate the requirement that utilities submit a copy of period pole inspection reports to attaching entities. Deadlines for filing comments and reply comments were set for March 15, 2024 and March 25, 2024, respectively.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michele Berlove, Assistant Division Chief, Competition Policy Div., WCB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1477

Email: michele.berlove@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK32

295. 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 ( printed page 45635) 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.

In 2023, the Commission established by Second Report and Order modifications to and clarifications of the direct access authorization rules to reduce access to telephone numbers by potential perpetrators of illegal robocalls. Such changes include certifications to be made by applicants affirming compliance with the Commission's preexisting requirements concerning STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication and Robocall Mitigation Database filings.

The Order also adopts important guardrails to protect national security, law enforcement, and numbering resources. These changes include foreign ownership and control disclosures, certification of compliance with State numbering requirements, certification of compliance with the Commission's rules pertaining to access arbitrage, and ensuring the accuracy of application contents upon application as well as after the authorization is granted.

The Order also codifies Bureau staff review, rejection, and authorization revocation matters.

The item also includes an FNPRM which proposes a 30-day deadline for existing authorization holders to comply with rule changes. The FNPRM also proposes a delegation of authority to the Numbering Administrator via public notice to suspend all pending and future requests for numbers if the new information submitted by an existing authorization holder indicates a material change or raises a public interest concern. The FNPRM further proposes that authorization holders continue to use numbers pending Bureau investigation.

The Second FNPRM also proposes that new applicants be required to disclose initial service area where numbers will be used. The FNPRM also proposes that authorizations holders that sell or lease numbers be required to obtain the direct access certification requirements from the indirect access recipients, retain copies, and file with the Commission a list of the indirect access recipients. The FNPRM also seeks comment on enforcement actions that the Commission could take against applicants and authorization holders for violation of the direct access authorization rules.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Jordan Marie Reth, Attorney-Advisor (PU), Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1418

Email: jordan.reth@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK36

296. UNIVERSAL SERVICE [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.

On November 14, 2024, the Commission adopted the Alaska Connect Fund to further address broadband needs in Alaska.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Nakesha Woodward, Program Analyst, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1502

Email: kesha.woodward@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK57

297. 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 Commission efforts to continue to modernize toll-free number allocation in the future.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Heather Hendrickson, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7295

Email: heather.hendrickson@fcc.gov

Matthew Collins, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7141

Email: matthew.collins@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK91

298. 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 ( printed page 45637) 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 adopted a Third Report and Order establishing new requirements for the BDC and took additional steps to implement the Broadband DATA Act. The Third Report and Order 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 governmental entities and certain third parties, and for identifying locations that would be included in the Fabric. Importantly, the Commission also established processes for verifying the accuracy of provider submitted data and the Fabric, including challenge processes which invite input from the public and other stakeholders in order to improve the accuracy of the maps.

To implement the Broadband DATA Act and these new rules, the Commission created a new data platform and system to collect and map availability data collected from over 2,500 providers and for consumers and other stakeholders to submit challenges to that data; created a 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 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. The Task Force adopted an Order in November 2023 to extend the waiver, with new conditions, for an additional three filing periods. In addition, staff worked closely with ISPs to ensure that they were equipped with the technical information and training to participate in the BDC's complex data collection by effectively and accurately reporting where they do, and do not, offer internet services. FCC staff and its contractors made phone calls and sent a series of emails to every ISP that previously filed Form 477 data to remind them of their obligation to file data by September 1, 2022—the initial filing deadline—and to make them aware of the many technical assistance resources that the FCC has made available, including filing instructions, FAQs, knowledge base articles, web tutorials, filing workshops, and a dedicated BDC Help Center offering both Tier 1 and Tier 2 support to entities seeking to file availability data or challenges including GIS support. Additionally, FCC staff has attended numerous conferences, ex parte meetings, and conference calls with individual providers and industry organizations.

In November 2022, the Commission released a pre-production draft of its new National Broadband Map displaying version 1 of the Fabric overlayed with provider reported availability data as of June 30, 2022. The new map is the most comprehensive, granular, and standardized data the Commission has ever published on broadband availability. This date also marked the beginning of the BDC processes by which consumers, governmental entities, and other third parties can file bulk and individual challenges to the fixed and mobile availability data and the Fabric data. Updates to the National Broadband Map are iterative and ongoing. The challenge processes will also continue on an ongoing basis in order to allow the public to provide input and help improve the accuracy of the National Broadband Map.

State, local, and Tribal governmental entities are encouraged to participation in the bulk challenge and crowdsource processes where the location or availability data on the map appeared imprecise. To assist with this process, staff have hosted technical assistance workshops and video tutorials to assist parties seeking to file challenges to the Fabric and fixed and mobile availability data. Additionally, the Task Force has released video tutorials and knowledge base articles to assist fixed and mobile providers with responding to challenges.

In December 2022, the Commission adopted and Order, 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. To further streamline the FCC's data collection efforts the BDC system allows filers to submit both their BDC data and 477 subscription data as a combined filing using a single interface.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michael Ray, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0357

Email: michael.ray@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AK93

299. 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 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, ( printed page 45639) 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”.

On May 18, 2023, the Commission adopted a Seventh Repot and Order. The Seventh Report and Order required voice service providers and non-gateway intermediate providers to commit in their Robocall Mitigation Database certification to respond to traceback requests from the Commission, law enforcement, and the industry traceback consortium within 24 hours.

On August 8, 2024, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (WC Docket No. 24-213; MD Docket No. 10-234). The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposed and sought comment on procedural measures the Commission could adopt to promote the highest level of diligence when providers submit required information to the Robocall Mitigation Database and technical solutions the Commission could use to identify data discrepancies in filings and require them to be corrected before they are accepted. The Commission also proposed and sought comment on measures to increase accountability for providers that submit inaccurate and false information or fail to update their filings as required by the rules. Finally, the Commission sought comment on any other procedural steps the Commission could require to increase the effectiveness of the Robocall Mitigation Database as a compliance and consumer protection tool.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.

Agency Contact: Jonathan Lechter, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0984

Email: jonathan.lechter@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL00

300. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL SUICIDE IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2018, 988 SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE, WC DOCKET 18-336, PS DOCKET NO. 23.5, PS DOCKET NO. 15-80 [3060-AL01]

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

Abstract: 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. Those rules were adopted on November 21, 2021.

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 (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 an NPRM to help ensure that the public has access to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline if a service outage occurs.

On April 7, 2023, the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) issued a Public Notice informing the industry that Office of the Federal Register published a summary of the 988 Outage Reporting NPRM and that the NPRM comments must be filed on or before May 8, 2023, and reply comments must be filed on or before June 6, 2023.

On April 12, 2023, the Bureau issued a Public Notice Bureau inviting states, political subdivisions, Indian Tribes, or villages or regional corporations to submit information on their jurisdiction's authority to collect 988 fees or charges, the amount of revenue collected from the 988 fee or charge, and how the revenue collected from the 988 fee or charge was used, covering the period of January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022. This information will be used to create its Report to Congress on 988 Fees, due in October 2023.

On June 9, 2023, the Bureau, in accordance with the Text-to-988 Second Report and Order, provides notice that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Lifeline) will continue to receive and respond to short message service (SMS) messages, and that no new texting formats have been implemented or requested at this time.

Those rules were adopted on July 20, 2023.

On July 21, 2023_msocom_1, the Commission released a Report and ( printed page 45640) Order imposing 988 outage reporting and notice requirements on covered 988 service providers. This seems duplicative of an earlier paragraph, so I suggest deleting the first one.

On October 17, 2023, in accordance with the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020, the Wireline Competition Bureau submitted its second 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, 2022 to December 31, 2022.

On October 30, 2023, the Commission released an Erratum amending Appendix A of the July 2023 Report and Order.

On April 18, 2024, the Bureau issued a Public Notice Bureau inviting states, political subdivisions, Indian Tribes, or villages or regional corporations to submit information on their jurisdiction's authority to collect 988 fees or charges, the amount of revenue collected from the 988 fee or charge, and how the revenue collected from the 988 fee or charge was used, covering the period of January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023. This information will be used to create its Report to Congress on 988 Fees, due in October 2024.

On April 25, 2024, the Commission adopted a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) seeking comment on a proposal to adopt rules requiring wireless carriers to implement a georouting solution for calls to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to ensure that calls are routed based on the geographic location for the origin of the call, rather than the area code and exchange associated with a wireless phone. The Commission also invited comment on a variety of issues related to implementing a georouting solution for the 988 Lifeline, the Commission's authority to adopt rules requiring wireless carriers to implement one or more georouting solutions for calls to the 988 Lifeline, and any potential or needed georouting solutions for non-wireless calls and texts to the 988 Lifeline.

On May 29, 2024, the Bureau issued a Public Notice informing the industry that a summary of the Second FNPRM was published in the Federal Register , and that comments are due on or before June 28, 2024, and reply comments are due on or before July 29, 2024.

On June 7, 2024, the Bureau, in accordance with the Text-to-988 Second Report and Order, provides notice that the Lifeline will continue to receive and respond to SMS messages, and that no new texting formats have been implemented or requested at this time.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michelle Sclater, Attorney, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-0388

Email: michelle.sclater@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL01

301. 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:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Michele Berlove, Assistant Division Chief, Competition Policy Div., WCB, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1477

Email: michele.berlove@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL02

302. PROTECTING CONSUMERS FROM SIM SWAP AND PORT-OUT FRAUD, WC DOCKET NO. 21-341 [3060-AL34]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151, 154, 201, 222, 251, 303(r), 332

Abstract: The Commission revised its Customer Proprietary Network Information (CPNI) and Local Number Portability (LNP) rules to require wireless providers to adopt secure methods of authenticating a customer before redirecting a customer's phone number to a new device or provider. The Commission also required wireless providers to immediately notify customers whenever a SIM change or port-out request is made on customers' accounts, and take additional steps to protect customers from SIM swap and port-out fraud. In a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission sought comment on whether to harmonize the existing requirements governing customer access to CPNI with the SIM change authentication and protection measures, and on what steps the Commission can take to harmonize government efforts to address SIM swap and port-out fraud.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Melissa Kirkel, Deputy Division Chief, Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7958

Fax: 202 418-1413

Email: melissa.kirkel@fcc.gov

Jordan Marie Reth, Attorney-Advisor (PU), Federal Communications Commission, Wireline Competition Bureau, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-1418

Email: jordan.reth@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL34

303. 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.

On November 16, 2023, the Commission released a Report and Order. The rules largely track the statutory language, with key additions and clarifications to address privacy, account security, fraud detection, and operational or technical infeasibility. Among other things, the Commission established requirements regarding the information that survivors must submit to request a line separation and the options providers must offer to survivors making a line separation request. The Commission also adopted requirements regarding communications with consumers and survivors and restrictions on various practices in connection with line separation requests. In addition, the Commission required covered providers to train employees who may interact with survivors on how to assist them or direct them to other employees who have received such training. The Commission also delineated the financial responsibilities for monthly service costs and mobile device following a line separation, and established a compliance date of July 14, 2024, six months after the effective date of the Report and Order . Further, the Commission designated the Lifeline program to support emergency communications service for survivors that have pursued the line separation process and are suffering a financial hardship. The Commission directed USAC to develop processes to allow survivors experiencing financial hardship to apply for and enroll in the Lifeline program, and to transition survivors from emergency communications support at the end of the six-month emergency support period mandated by the Safe Connections Act.^[1] With regard to protecting the privacy of calls and text messages to domestic violence hotlines, the Commission required covered providers and wireline, fixed wireless, and fixed satellite providers of voice service to: (1) omit from consumer-facing logs of calls and text messages any records of calls or text messages to covered hotlines in the central database established by the Commission; and (2) ( printed page 45642) maintain internal records of calls and text messages excluded from consumer-facing logs of calls and text messages. Providers were generally given 12 months to comply with these requirements, except that small service providers were given 18 months.

^[1]   Id. at paras. 167-73. In addition to these provisions, the Commission also considered matters relating to protecting the privacy of calls and text messages to domestic violence hotlines. In the Safe Connections Report and Order, the Commission required covered providers and wireline, fixed wireless, and fixed satellite providers of voice service to: (1) omit from consumer-facing logs of calls and text messages any records of calls or text messages to covered hotlines in the central database established by the Commission; and (2) maintain internal records of calls and text messages excluded from consumer-facing logs of calls and text messages. Id. at 59-76, paras. 105-49. Providers were generally given 12 months to comply with these requirements, except that small service providers were given 18 months. Id. at 70-74, paras. 137-44.

Timetable:

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

304. IMPLEMENTING THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT: PREVENTION AND ELIMINATION OF DIGITAL DISCRIMINATION [3060-AL56]

Legal Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151 to 152; 47 U.S.C. 154(i)-(i); 47 U.S.C. 303(r); Sec. 60506 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act; Pub. L. 117-58, 135 stat. 429; Pub. L. 1245-46 (2021); 47 U.S.C. 1754

Abstract: On March 17, 2022, the Commission released a Notice of Inquiry commencing this proceeding and seeking broad comment on the statutory language and rules we should adopt consistent with Congressional direction. The Commission received substantial public comment from a range of stakeholders representing interests from the civil rights community, state and local governments, and broadband service providers of various sizes, technologies, and business models. The record reflects diverse perspectives on the nature and causes of digital discrimination of access, how to construe section 60506 and the authority it offers us, and the steps we should take to fulfill the Infrastructure Act's direction.

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks to identify the harms experienced by historically excluded and marginalized communities; provide a groundwork for meaningful policy reforms and systems improvements; establish a framework for collaborative action to promote and facilitate digital opportunity for everyone; and seek more focused comment on the Commission's implementation of section 60506. These goals follow express Congressional direction in section 60506 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to ensure that all people of the United States benefit from equal access to broadband, including by preventing and identifying steps to eliminate digital discrimination of access based on income level, race, ethnicity, color, religion, or national origin.

On November 15, 2023 the Commission adopted a Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. In the Report and Order, the Commission adopted rules pursuant to section 60506 of the Infrastructure Act that establish a framework to facilitate equal access to broadband internet access by preventing digital discrimination of access. These rules address policies and practices that impede equal access to broadband, while taking into account issues of technical and economic feasibility that pose serious challenges to full achievement of the equal access objective. In the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposes rules regarding affirmative obligations for broadband providers, through: (1) annual reports that facilitate greater transparency regarding substantial broadband projects recently completed by providers, and (2) internal compliance programs requiring periodic evaluation of the demographics of communities served and not served by such recently completed projects, as well as pending and planned substantial projects. The Commission also seeks comment on establishing an Office of Civil Rights.

Timetable:

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Agency Contact: Heather Hendrickson, Deputy Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, Federal Communications Commission, 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554

Phone: 202 418-7295

Email: heather.hendrickson@fcc.gov

RIN: 3060-AL56

[FR Doc. Filed 08-18-25; 0:00 a.m.]

BILLING CODE 6712-01-P