FR 2021-02437

General Summary of the Document

The document pertains to a correction issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding a previous notice published in the Federal Register on January 22, 2021. Initially, the notice invited public comments on Petitions for Reconsideration, related to a rulemaking process managed by the Commission. However, it contained an error regarding the deadline for filing replies to opposition on these petitions. The incorrect deadline published was February 16, 2021. This document corrects that mistake by extending the deadline to February 18, 2021. The correction became effective on February 5, 2021.

Significant Issues and Concerns

While the document appears straightforward as a correction notice, it highlights an important issue in regulatory processes: the accuracy of information dissemination. Errors in official publications can potentially affect public participation and the proper administration of justice. In this instance, a date correction is crucial for stakeholders who may have planned their activities around the incorrect timeframe. The error could have led to a constrained response period, potentially skewing inputs from stakeholders or missing critical insights necessary for the rulemaking process.

Impact on the Public Broadly

For the general public, the change in date may not seem significant at first glance. However, the broader implication is that it allows for proper public engagement and participation, which is an integral part of democratic processes. Public involvement in rulemaking ensures transparency and that diverse viewpoints are considered in regulatory decision-making. For those who rely on accurate information in the Federal Register for planning their contributions or legal compliance, this correction ensures that they have the proper window of opportunity to make informed contributions.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders, such as telecommunications companies, public interest groups, and legal practitioners, may be directly impacted by this correction. For them, the two-day extension means additional time to prepare, review, and submit their responses comprehensively. This adjustment not only influences the quality of submissions but also aids in strategic planning, ensuring that stakeholders can present well-considered and effective arguments or comments concerning the rulemaking proceeding.

Conversely, delays in the regulatory process, even minor ones like this, could impact the timeline for implementing any rule changes emanating from the proceeding. Stakeholders who are eager to see swift regulatory changes must adjust their expectations in light of such procedural amendments.

In conclusion, while this document primarily functions to correct a previous error, it underscores the importance of precision and timely communication in regulatory processes. This correction safeguards the integrity of public participation, ensuring that all parties have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with the rulemaking proceedings.