Search Results for agency_names:"Federal Communications Commission"

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public comments on its efforts to reduce paperwork burdens, particularly focusing on small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. The FCC is interested in feedback on the necessity and effectiveness of information collection and how it might lessen the burden on small businesses. Public comments must be submitted by February 10, 2021, through the specified website and also by email to Cathy Williams at the FCC. This effort is part of the Commission's compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act and the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) are launching a new computer matching program with the Mississippi Department of Human Services. This program aims to verify whether people applying for or currently receiving benefits from the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) are eligible by checking if they receive SNAP benefits. The matching process will involve sharing information like part of the applicant's Social Security Number and date of birth to confirm eligibility. The program will start on March 27, 2025, and run for 18 months.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking for public feedback on their information collection practices, required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. They want to know if these collections are necessary and useful for their work, if their burden estimates are accurate, and how they can improve the quality and clarity of the information collected. The FCC is also seeking ideas on how to make the process less of a burden, particularly for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. Comments should be sent by April 28, 2025.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved a new information collection related to the implementation of Next Generation 911 Services (NG911). As of March 25, 2025, compliance with specific NG911 rules is required, which will aid in transitioning emergency services to IP-based systems. The rules apply to various service providers, including those of wireline, mobile, and internet-based communication services, ensuring coordination with 911 authorities. The document also discusses procedures for challenging requests and reporting agreements, as well as the associated paperwork requirements and costs for compliance.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) updated its rule for over-the-air reception devices to include hub and relay antennas used to distribute broadband-only wireless services, expanding their previous constraints. This modification aims to facilitate the deployment of faster and more efficient Internet services, especially in rural and underserved communities, by removing barriers related to the installation and use of these antennas. The FCC maintains certain conditions, such as property ownership requirements and size restrictions of the antennas, to ensure minimal visual impact and compliance with existing safety and historical preservation regulations. This change seeks to level the playing field for broadband providers and increase competition in the fixed wireless market.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented new rules to manage the use of certain frequency bands for commercial space launches. This is part of the Launch Communications Act, which requires the FCC to regulate spectrum usage for space operations, ensuring cooperation between various users to avoid interference. The 2360-2395 MHz band has now been allocated for space launch operations, with specific technical and licensing rules to ensure the protection of existing users. These new rules aim to streamline the licensing and coordination process for space launches, making it simpler and more efficient for new and existing space launch providers.

The Federal Communications Commission has issued a new rule that changes several unbundling and resale requirements for telecommunications services. The rule eliminates certain obligations that require incumbent local exchange carriers (LECs) to offer unbundled access to their network elements, such as loop and transport facilities, where there is sufficient evidence of competition. The rule also ends the Avoided-Cost Resale requirements, which previously allowed competitive carriers to resell services at discounted rates, except for 911/E911 databases and operations support systems used for remaining obligations. The decision aims to encourage the transition to next-generation networks and services by removing outdated regulations where competition now exists.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued new rules to address robocalls under the TRACED Act, amending exemptions in the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). The rules limit the number of non-commercial, commercial, nonprofit, and HIPAA-related calls to residential lines to a maximum number within a specified period and require an opt-out mechanism for consumers. These regulations aim to reduce unwanted robocalls, balancing consumer protection with the need for legitimate communications. The implementation period is set to allow entities time to comply with the new requirements.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced new rules to improve accessibility for video conferencing services. These rules ensure that such services can be used by people with disabilities by requiring features like accurate captioning, sign language interpretation support, and customizable user interface controls. Additionally, the FCC allows for integrated relay services to support functionally equivalent communication in video conferences, while also implementing measures to prevent misuse of the Telecommunications Relay Services Fund. The changes aim to make video conferencing more accessible, reflecting its essential role in communication today.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking for public comments on how to evaluate applications for the COVID-19 Telehealth Program, a program designed to help healthcare providers connect with patients during the pandemic. The FCC is looking to provide more funding for telehealth services, using funds allocated by Congress, and they want input on how to prioritize applications, especially for areas and providers that were heavily impacted by COVID-19. They plan to ensure that every state and the District of Columbia has at least one applicant that receives funding. Additionally, they propose changes to the application process and are considering prioritizing applicants who did not get funding in the first round. The goal is to improve the program while making funds available to those who need it most.