Search Results for keywords:"Federal Communications Commission"

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Search Results: keywords:"Federal Communications Commission"

  • Type:Rule
    Citation:86 FR 8872
    Reading Time:about 20 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has denied Public Knowledge's request to reconsider a 2018 decision related to simplifying the process for carriers to discontinue older voice services as part of a technology transition. The FCC found that the concerns raised by Public Knowledge had already been addressed, including issues about Federal agencies being negatively affected and the adequacy of replacement services. The FCC explained that new streamlined options allow carriers to focus on upgrading to next-generation networks while ensuring customers have access to comparable voice services. Additionally, a motion to delay implementing the decision, pending an appeal, was dismissed as irrelevant since the appeal was denied.

    Simple Explanation

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) decided not to change a rule about getting rid of old phone services so that new and better networks can be built, making sure people still have good phone service during this change. They also said that a request to stop the rule while a court decision was pending doesn't matter anymore because the court already made its decision.

  • Type:Notice
    Citation:89 FR 101012
    Reading Time:about 2 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public comments on the proposed collection of information to improve its processes and reduce paperwork burdens, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. The FCC is interested in the necessity, practicality, and clarity of the information collected, as well as ways to minimize the burden on businesses, particularly small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. The collection aims to facilitate efficient communication between property owners and local carriers in telecommunications, ensuring competition and compliance with radiofrequency exposure limits. Public feedback is encouraged before February 11, 2025.

    Simple Explanation

    In a fun game, the FCC is asking people to share ideas to make writing less of a chore for everyone, especially tiny companies with only a few helpers. They're also figuring out how to make sharing information quicker using cool technology.

  • Type:Proposed Rule
    Citation:86 FR 9309
    Reading Time:about 13 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public comments on petitions asking for E-Rate program funds to be used for remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Various petitions, including those from coalitions and states like Colorado and Nevada, request flexibility in using these funds to support students and schools unable to connect to the internet from home. The FCC is exploring how to ensure cost-effective use of these funds, prevent misuse, and prioritize schools and students in greatest need. They are also examining their legal authority to adjust E-Rate funding to address these challenges.

    Simple Explanation

    The FCC wants people to share their thoughts on using special funds that help schools connect to the internet, so kids can learn from home during COVID-19. They're trying to figure out the best ways to use the money without wasting it and ensure it helps the kids who need it most.

  • Type:Proposed Rule
    Citation:86 FR 1909
    Reading Time:about 33 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission has proposed a rule change to allow FM broadcasters to use booster stations for geo-targeted content like local news and ads. This change would let these stations broadcast different content to specific parts of their normal service area without interference. The proposal, backed by GeoBroadcast, aims to benefit small and minority-owned stations and boost local advertisements, while also addressing potential technical and regulatory challenges. Public comments on this proposal are encouraged before the final decision is made.

    Simple Explanation

    The Federal Communications Commission wants to let radio stations use extra tools to send special messages, like local news or ads, to different areas. This could help smaller stations, but some people are worried it might be hard or costly to do.

  • Type:Notice
    Citation:86 FR 10278
    Reading Time:about 2 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced a modification in how it will handle certain applications for the 470-512 MHz T-Band spectrum. Originally, applications were paused because the T-Band frequencies were expected to be reallocated. Now, after a new law negated the reallocation, the FCC will resume processing applications for renewing existing licenses and processing other pending applications. Additionally, the FCC will allow a period during which applicants and coordinators can prepare new applications, followed by a time frame when certain applications will be accepted from existing license holders only. These changes aim to enhance access to T-Band channels without unnecessary delays.

    Simple Explanation

    The FCC is going to start looking at and deciding on certain radio requests that were on hold because of a change in laws about how some special radio waves, called the T-Band, are used. They're going to let people who already have licenses make requests first, before any new people.

  • Type:Notice
    Citation:89 FR 100485
    Reading Time:about 16 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission's Enforcement Bureau has suspended Issa Asad from the federal Lifeline program and other federal universal service support mechanisms due to fraud. Asad, the CEO of Q Link Wireless, admitted to defrauding the Lifeline program by submitting false claims, leading to him and his company benefiting unlawfully. Following his conviction, the Bureau will begin proceedings to debar Asad from future participation in these programs for at least three years. Anyone wishing to oppose this suspension can submit documentation within 30 days of receiving the notification.

    Simple Explanation

    The government found out that Issa Asad was tricking them to get extra money from a program meant to help people with phone services. Now, he can't be part of this program anymore and might not be allowed back for at least three years.

  • Type:Notice
    Citation:86 FR 5195
    Reading Time:about 6 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that four Informal Working Groups (IWG) of the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference Advisory Committee will hold virtual meetings which are open to the public. These groups focus on different areas: Maritime and Aeronautical, Terrestrial Services, Space Services, and Regulatory Issues. The meetings are scheduled across various dates in January and February of 2021. Interested individuals can participate through WebEx or teleconference, with specific access details provided for each meeting.

    Simple Explanation

    The FCC, which helps in making rules for radios and signals, is having online meetings where anyone can listen. These meetings are with groups who talk about different things like boats, airplanes, space, and rules about radio signals.

  • Type:Notice
    Citation:90 FR 2697
    Reading Time:about 4 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is introducing a new computer matching program with the Colorado Governor's Office of Information Technology to verify eligibility for programs like Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). These programs offer discounts on broadband and voice services to low-income individuals. The program will check if applicants are enrolled in benefits like SNAP and Medicaid, using data shared between various agencies. This verification aims to ensure only eligible individuals receive these discounts while reducing fraud.

    Simple Explanation

    The FCC wants to make sure that only people who should get help paying for phone and internet are getting it. They will work with people in Colorado to check if those asking for help really need it, but the information shared will be kept safe.

  • Type:Rule
    Citation:89 FR 105474
    Reading Time:about a minute or two

    The Federal Communications Commission issued a correcting amendment for a previously published rule in the Federal Register. The correction addresses an error in the ending year for the supplemental compensation rate for CA-assisted IP Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS). The original document mistakenly listed the end date as June 30, 2027, which has now been corrected to June 30, 2029. This amendment is effective from December 27, 2024.

    Simple Explanation

    The Federal Communications Commission fixed a mistake about when a special payment for helping people use phone services will stop. They changed the end year from 2027 to 2029, so the help will last two extra years.

  • Type:Notice
    Citation:89 FR 101011
    Reading Time:about 3 minutes

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is inviting public comments on its information collection practices. As part of the Paperwork Reduction Act efforts, they seek input on whether these collections are necessary and useful, the accuracy of their burden estimates, and ways to improve the clarity of information collected. The FCC is particularly interested in suggestions to reduce burdens on small businesses and ensure compliance with the requirement to have a valid Office of Management and Budget control number. Comments are due by February 11, 2025, and should be sent to the designated FCC email addresses.

    Simple Explanation

    The FCC wants to hear what people think about how they collect information to make sure it’s useful and not too hard to gather. They especially want ideas on how to make it easier for small businesses and have invited everyone to send their comments by February 11, 2025.