Unified Agenda


FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)


FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

47 CFR Ch. I

Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions — October 2001

AGENCY:

Federal Communications Commission.

ACTION:

Semiannual regulatory agenda.

SUMMARY:

Twice a year, in April and October, the Commission publishes in the Federal Register a list in the Unified Agenda of those major items and other significant proceedings under development or review that pertain to the Regulatory Flexibility Act. See 5 U.S.C. 602. The Unified Agenda also provides the Code of Federal Regulations citations and legal authorities that govern these proceedings.

ADDRESSES:

Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Helen G. Hillegass, Attorney Advisor, Office of Communications Business Opportunities, or Maura McGowan, Telecommunications Specialist, Federal Communications Commission, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554, (202) 418-0990.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

 

Unified Agenda of Major and Other Significant Proceedings

The Commission encourages public participation in its rulemaking process. To help keep the public informed of significant rulemaking proceedings, the Commission has prepared a list of important proceedings now in progress. The General Services Administration publishes the Unified Agenda in the Federal Register in April and October of each year.

The following terms may be helpful in understanding the status of the proceedings included in this report:

Docket Number — assigned to a proceeding if the Commission has issued either a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking or a Notice of Inquiry concerning the matter under consideration. The Commission has used docket numbers since January 1, 1978. Docket numbers consist of the last two digits of the calendar year in which the docket was established plus a sequential number that begins at 1 with the first docket initiated during a calendar year (e.g., Docket No. 96-1 or Docket No. 99-1). The abbreviation for the responsible bureau usually precedes the docket number, as in "MM Docket No. 96-222," which indicates that the responsible bureau is the Mass 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) — issued by the Commission when it is seeking information on a broad subject or trying to generate ideas on a given topic. A comment period is specified during which all interested parties may submit comments.

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) — issued by the Commission when it is proposing a specific change to Commission rules and regulations. Before any changes are actually made, interested parties may submit written comments on the proposed revisions.

Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) —issued by the Commission when additional comment in the proceeding is sought.

Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O) — issued by the Commission to deny a petition for rulemaking, conclude an inquiry, modify a decision, or address a petition for reconsideration of a decision.

Rulemaking (RM) Number — assigned to a proceeding after the appropriate bureau or office has reviewed a petition for rulemaking, but before the Commission has taken action on the petition.

Report and Order (R&O) — issued by the Commission to state a new or amended rule or state that the Commission rules and regulations will not be revised.

Magalie Roman Salas, Secretary, Federal Communications Commission.

CABLE SERVICES BUREAU—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4275  Cable Television Rate Regulation3060-AF41
4276  Cable Television Rate Regulation: Cost of Service3060-AF48
4277  Customer Service Standards3060-AF69
4278  Cable Home Wiring3060-AG02
4279  Closed Captioning3060-AG26
4280  Cable Act Reform3060-AG27
4281  Competitive Availability of Navigation Devices3060-AG28
4282  Pole Attachment Provisions3060-AG71
4283  Digital Must Carry3060-AG91
4284  Horizontal Ownership Limits3060-AH09
4285  Application of Network Nonduplication, Syndicated Exclusivity, and Sports Blackout Rules to Satellite Retransmission - SHVIA3060-AH35
4286  Retransmission Consent Issues - SHVIA3060-AH36
4287  Satellite Broadcasting Signal Carriage Requirements3060-AH45

COMMON CARRIER BUREAU—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4288  Administration of the North American Numbering Plan3060-AF50
4289  Use of N11 Codes and Other Abbreviated Dialing Arrangements3060-AF51
4290  Implementation of the Universal Service Portions of the 1996 Telecommunications Act3060-AF85
4291  Toll-Free Service Access Codes3060-AG11
4292  Implementation of Section 273 of the Telecommunications Act of 19963060-AG36
4293  Implementation of Non-Accounting Safeguards, Sec. 271 & 272 of Communications Act of 1996 & Regulatory Treatment of LEC Provisions of Interexchange Svcs. Orig. in LEC Local Exch. Area3060-AG37
4294  Policies and Rules Governing Interstate Pay-Per-Call and Other Information Services Pursuant to the Telecommunications Act of 19963060-AG42
4295  Telecommunications Carriers' Use of Customer Proprietary Network Information and Other Customer Information3060-AG43
4296  Implementation of the Subscriber Selection Changes Provision of the Telecommunications Act of 19963060-AG46
4297  Implementation of Section 402(b)(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996; LEC Tariff Streamlining Provisions3060-AG47
4298  Access Charge Reform3060-AG49
4299  Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 19963060-AG50
4300  Enhanced 911 Services for Wireline3060-AG60
4301  Computer III Further Remand Proceedings: Bell Operating Company Provision of Enhanced Services3060-AG72
4302  Detariffing of Competitive Local Exchange Carriers' Interstate Exchange Access Services3060-AG73
4303  In the Matter of the Telecommunications Relay Services, the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Telecommunications Act of 19963060-AG75
4304  In the Matter of Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services for Individuals With Hearing and Speech Disabilities3060-AG76
4305  1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of Accounting and Cost Allocation Requirements3060-AG98
4306  1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of ARMIS Reporting Requirements3060-AG99
4307  Performance Measurements and Reporting Requirements for Operations Support Systems, Interconnection, Operator Services, and Directory Assistance3060-AH00
4308  Access Charge Reform for Rate-of-Return Local Exchange Carriers3060-AH01
4309  Deployment of Wireline Services Offering Advanced Telecommunications Capability3060-AH03
4310  Prescribing the Authorized Rate of Return for Interstate Services of Local Exchange Carriers3060-AH18
4311  1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of Depreciation Requirements for Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers3060-AH20
4312  Comprehensive Review of Accounting Requirements and ARMIS Reporting Requirements, Phase 13060-AH43
4313  Local Telephone Networks That LECs Must Make Available to Competitors3060-AH44
4314  2000 Biennial Regulatory Review — Telecommunications Service Quality Reporting Requirements3060-AH72
4315  Access Charge Reform and Universal Service Reform3060-AH74
4316  2000 Biennial Regulatory Review — Comprehensive Review of the Accounting Requirements and ARMIS Reporting Requirements for Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers; Phase 2 and Phase 33060-AH76
4317  Comprehensive Review of the Accounting Requirements and ARMIS Reporting Requirements for Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers; Phase 13060-AH77
4318  Streamlining Procedures for Common Carrier Transfers of Control3060-AH79
4319  Numbering Resource Optimization3060-AH80

COMMON CARRIER BUREAU—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4320  Policy and Rules Concerning the Interstate, Interexchange Marketplace; Implementation of Section 254(g) of the Communications Act of 1934, As Amended3060-AG45
4321  Administration of the North American Numbering Plan, Carrier Identification Codes3060-AG61
4322  1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of Customer Premises Equipment and Enhanced Services Unbundling Rules in the Interexchange, Exchange Access and Local Exchange Markets3060-AH73

CONSUMER INFORMATION BUREAU—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4323  Implementation of Section 255 and Section 251(a)(2) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996; Access to Telecommunications Services Equipment and Customer Premise Equipment for Persons With Disabilities3060-AG58

CONSUMER INFORMATION BUREAU—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4324  Internet Telephony Report3060-AH56

ENFORCEMENT BUREAU—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4325  In the Matter of Amendment of Part 73, Subpart G, of the Commission's Rules Regarding the Emergency Alert System3060-AF21

ENFORCEMENT BUREAU—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4326  Amendment of Rules Governing Procedures To Be Followed When Formal Complaints Are Filed Against Common Carriers3060-AG65

OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4327  Wind Profiler Radar Systems3060-AF45
4328  Millimeter Wave Spectrum Allocation3060-AF61
4329  MSS Spectrum Allocation3060-AF75
4330  Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure at 5 GHz3060-AG19
4331  Allocation of 455-456 MHz and 459-460 MHz3060-AG89
4332  Dedicated Short Range Communications of Intelligent Transportation Services3060-AG94
4333  Regulations for RF Lighting Devices3060-AG95
4334  Equipment Authorization Streamline II/Mutual Recognition Agreements and the GMPCS MOU3060-AG96
4335  Uniden Scanners/Cellular Radio Signals3060-AG97
4336  Industry Coordination Committee System for Broadcast Digital Television Service3060-AH13
4337  3650-3700 Government Transfer Band3060-AH14
4338  Certification of Equipment in the 24.05-24.25 GHz Band at Field Strengths Up to 2500 mV/m3060-AH16
4339  Fixed Satellite Service and Terrestrial System in the Ku-Band3060-AH17
4340  Spread Spectrum Devices3060-AH25
4341  Wireless Medical Telemetry Service3060-AH27
4342  Establishment of an Improved Model for Predicting the Broadcast Television Field Strength Received at Individual Locations3060-AH37
4343  Conducted Emission Limits3060-AH46
4344  Revision of the Rules Regarding Ultra-Wideband Transmission3060-AH47
4345  Software Defined Radio Authorization3060-AH64
4346  New Advanced Wireless Services3060-AH65
4347  Reallocation of 27 MHz Spectrum3060-AH66
4348  Revisions to Broadcast Auxiliary Service Rules3060-AH78

OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4349  Radionavigation Service at 31.8-32.2 GHz3060-AH15
4350  Closed Captioning for DTV Receivers3060-AH24
4351  50-71 GHz Realignment3060-AH26

OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4352  Amendment of the Ex Parte Rules in Joint Board Proceedings3060-AH02
4353  Amendment of Section 1.1204 of the Commission's Ex Parte Rules3060-AH58

INTERNATIONAL BUREAU—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4354  Streamlining the Commission's Rules and Regulations for Satellite Application and Licensing Procedures; IB Docket No. 95-1173060-AD70
4355  Satellite Communications — NGSO Mobile Satellite Service; CC Docket No. 92-1663060-AF42
4356  Establishing Rules and Policies for the Use of Spectrum for Mobile Satellite Service in the L-Band; IB Docket No. 96-1323060-AF89
4357  Preemption of Local Zoning Regulation of Satellite Earth Stations; IB Docket No. 95-593060-AF92
4358  Establishment of Rules and Policies for the Digital Audio Radio Satellite Service in the 2310-2360 MHz Frequency Band; IB Docket No. 95-91; GEN Docket No. 90-3573060-AF93
4359  Redesignation of the 27.5-29.5 GHz Frequency Band; CC Docket No. 92-2973060-AF94
4360  Amendment of Policy To Allow Non-U.S. Licensed Space Stations To Provide Service in the United States; IB Docket No. 96-111; CC Docket No. 93-233060-AG31
4361  Streamlining Regulations Related to International Common Carriers; IB Docket No. 98-1183060-AG84
4362  Redesignation 17.7-19.7 GHz Band, Blanket Licensing Sat Earth Stations 17.7-20.2 GHz & 27.5-30 GHz & Allocation 17.3-17.8 & 24.75-25.25 GHz Band for Broadcast Satellite Service Use; IB Doc No. 98-1723060-AH21
4363  Allocate & Designate: Spec for Fixed-Sat Srv (37.5-38.5, 40.5-41.5 & 48.2-50.2 GHz Bands). Allocate: Fixed & Mobile 40.5-42.5 GHz; Wireless 46.9-47 GHz; Gov Oper 37-38 & 40-40.5 GHz; IB Doc No. 97-953060-AH23
4364  Establishment of Policies and Service Rules for the Mobile Satellite Service in the 2 GHz Band; IB Docket No. 99-813060-AH28
4365  Policies for the Direct Broadcast Satellite Service; IB Docket No. 98-213060-AH29
4366  1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of Accounts Settlement in Maritime Mobile &Maritime Mobile-Satellite Radio Services and Withdrawal of the Commission as Accounting Authority; IB Doc No. 98-963060-AH30
4367  Amendment to Regulatory Policies Governing Domestic Fixed Satellites and Separate International Satellite Systems; IB Docket No. 95-413060-AH48
4368  Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite; IB Docket No. 99-673060-AH49
4369  Consideration of Applications Under the Cable Landing License Act; IB Docket No. 00-1063060-AH50
4370  Direct Broadcast Public Interest Obligations; MM Docket No. 93-253060-AH59
4371  Streamlining Earth Station Licensing Rules; IB Docket No. 00-2483060-AH60
4372  2000 Biennial Review — Amendment of Parts 43 and 63 of the Commission's Rules; IB Docket No. 00-2313060-AH62
4373  Licensing and Coordination of Earth Stations in the Fixed-Satellite Services; IB Docket No. 00-2033060-AH63

INTERNATIONAL BUREAU—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4374  2000 Biennial Regulatory Review — Policy and Rules Concerning the International, Interexchange Marketplace; IB Docket No. 00-2023060-AH61

MASS MEDIA BUREAU—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4375  Transfer of Control of Non-Stock Entities (MM Docket No. 89-77)3060-AE31
4376  Filing of Television Network Affiliation Contracts (MM Docket No. 95-40)3060-AF80
4377  Rules Governing Broadcast Television Advertising (MM Docket No. 95-90)3060-AF81
4378  Minor Modifications of Broadcast Licenses Without Prior Construction Permit (MM Docket No. 96-58)3060-AG30
4379  Newspaper/Broadcast Cross-Ownership (MM Docket No. 96-197)3060-AG53
4380  Review of Technical Rules in Parts 73 and 74 (MM Docket No. 98-93)3060-AG81
4381  Digital Audio Broadcasting Systems (MM Docket No. 99-325)3060-AH40
4382  Dual Network Rule (MM Docket No. 00-108)3060-AH51
4383  Experimental Broadcast Station Multiple Ownership Rule (MM Docket No. 00-105)3060-AH52
4384  Ancillary or Supplemental Use of DTV Capacity by Non-Commercial Licensees (MM Docket No. 98-203)3060-AH53
4385  Periodic Review of Rules and Policies Affecting the Conversion to DTV (MM Docket No. 00-39)3060-AH54
4386  Children's TV, Obligations of Digital TV Broadcasters (MM Docket No. 00-167)3060-AH68
4387  Extension of Filing Requirements for Children's TV Programming Report (MM Docket No. 00-44)3060-AH69
4388  Radio Market Definitions (MM Docket No. 00-244)3060-AH70
4389  Enhanced and Standardized Disclosure (MM Docket No. 00-168)3060-AH71

MASS MEDIA BUREAU—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4390  Establishment of a Class A Television Service (MM Docket Nos. 00-10, 99-292)3060-AH39

OFFICE OF MANAGING DIRECTOR—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4391  Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees for FY 20013060-AH67

WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUREAU—Long-Term Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4392  Amendment of the Commission's Rules Concerning Maritime Communications3060-AF14
4393  Refarming3060-AF35
4394  Future Development of 800 MHz SMR; Competitive Bidding Wide Area3060-AF47
4395  Resale and Roaming Obligations Pertaining to Commercial Mobile Radio Services3060-AF58
4396  Implementation of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act, Competitive Bidding; Narrowband PCS Competitive Bidding Rules3060-AF99
4397  Implementation of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act, Competitive Bidding; 218-219 MHz Competitive Bidding Rules3060-AG00
4398  39 GHz Channel Plan3060-AG16
4399  Implementation of 309(j) of the Communications Act, Amendment of Parts 20 and 24 of the Commission's Rules - Broadband PCS Competitive Bidding and the Commercial Mobile Radio Service Spectrum Cap3060-AG21
4400  Revision of the Rules To Ensure Compatibility With 911 Emergency Calling Systems3060-AG34
4401  In the Matter of the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act3060-AG74
4402  Development of Operational, Technical, and Spectrum Requirements for Public Safety Communications Requirements3060-AG85
4403  Multiple Access Systems3060-AG86
4404  Amendment of Part I of the Commission's Rules — Competitive Bidding Procedures3060-AG87
4405  Amendment of Part 90 of the Rules To Adopt Regulations for Automatic Vehicle Monitoring Systems3060-AH12
4406  Service Rules for the 746-764 and 776-794 MHz Bands, and Revisions to Part 27 of the Commission's Rules3060-AH32
4407  Implementation of Sections 309(j) and 337 of the Communications Act of 1934 as Amended3060-AH33
4408  1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Spectrum Aggregation Limits for Wireless Telecommunications Carriers3060-AH34
4409  Amendment to Parts 1, 2, 87 and 101 of the Rules to License Fixed Services at 24 GHz3060-AH41
4410  Part 101 — Terrestrial Microwave Fixed Radio Services3060-AH42
4411  Amendment of Parts 13 and 80 Governing Maritime Communications3060-AH55
4412  Amendment of the Rules Regarding Installment Payment Financing for Personal Communications Services Licensees3060-AH57
4413  Transfer of the 3650 Through 3700 MHz Band and the 4.9 GHz Band From Federal Government Use3060-AH75
4414  2000 Biennial Regulatory Review Spectrum Aggregation Limits for Commercial Mobile Radio Services3060-AH81
4415  In the Matter of Promoting Efficient Use of Spectrum Through Elimination of Barriers to the Development of Secondary Markets3060-AH82
4416  In the Matter of Automatic and Manual Roaming Obligations Pertaining to Commercial Mobile Radio Services3060-AH83
4417  Amendment of Part 90 for Licensing Low Power Operations in 450-470 MHz Band3060-AH84

WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUREAU—Completed Actions
Sequence Number Title Regulation Identification Number
4418  Rulemaking To Amend Part 1 and Part 21 To Redesignate the 27.5-29.5 GHz Band and To Establish Rules and Policies for Local Multi-Point Distribution Service3060-AF26
4419  Calling Party Pays Service Offering in the Commercial Mobile Radio Services3060-AH31


Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Long-Term Actions

Cable Services Bureau


4275. CABLE TELEVISION RATE REGULATION

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Other Significant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 154; 47 USC 543

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

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. Reconsideration was requested. The 14th Order on Reconsideration addresses petitions on issues governing regulated services by cable systems.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 01/04/93 58 FR 48
R&O and FNPRM 05/21/93 58 FR 29736
MO&O and FNPRM 08/18/93 58 FR 43816
3rd R&O 11/30/93 58 FR 63087
Order on Recon, 4th R&O, and 5th NPRM 04/15/94 59 FR 17943
3rd Order on Recon 04/15/94 59 FR 17961
5th Order on Recon and FNPRM 10/13/94 59 FR 51869
4th Order on Recon 10/21/94 59 FR 53113
6th Order on Recon, 5th R&O, and 7th NPRM 12/06/94 59 FR 62614
7th Order on Recon 01/25/95 60 FR 4863
9th Order on Recon 02/27/95 60 FR 10512
8th Order on Recon 03/17/95 60 FR 14373
6th R&O and 11th Order on Recon 07/12/95 60 FR 35854
13th Order on Recon 10/05/95 60 FR 52106
12th Order on Recon 10/26/95 60 FR 54815
10th Order on Recon 04/08/96 61 FR 15388
Order on Recon of the 1st R&O and Further NPRM 04/15/96 61 FR 16447
MO&O 02/12/97 62 FR 6491
Report on Cable Industry Prices 02/24/97 62 FR 8245
R&O 03/31/97 62 FR 15118
14th Order on Recon 10/15/97 62 FR 53572

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected:

State, Local

Agency Contact:

Nancy Stevenson, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7039
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1196

RIN:

3060-AF41

4276. CABLE TELEVISION RATE REGULATION: COST OF SERVICE

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 154; 47 USC 543

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

The Commission has established rules pursuant to which cable operators may set rates for regulated cable service in accordance with traditional cost-of-service principles, as modified to take account of unique characteristics of the cable industry. These rules are the subject of pending petitions for reconsideration. In addition, the Commission is considering comments received in response to a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking concerning the rate of return that should be applied in cost-of-service cases.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 07/30/93 58 FR 40762
R&O 04/15/94 59 FR 17975
2nd NPRM 04/15/94 59 FR 18066
MO&O 10/14/94 59 FR 52087
2nd R&O/1st Order on Recon/FNPRM 03/08/96 61 FR 9361
Correction in FR 03/22/96 61 FR 11749

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected:

State, Local

Agency Contact:

Nancy Stevenson, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7039
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1196

RIN:

3060-AF48

4277. CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined.

Legal Authority:

47 USC 154(i) to 154(j); 47 USC 303; 47 USC 552

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

NPRM, Statutory, April 3, 1993.

Abstract:

The Commission has adopted customer service standards for cable operators nationwide to implement the provisions of the Cable Act of 1992. Such standards shall include, at a minimum, cable systems office hours, telephone availability, installations, outages, service calls, and communication between the cable operator and subscriber, including billing and refunds.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 12/23/92 57 FR 61038
R&O 04/19/93 58 FR 21107

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected:

State, Local

Agency Contact:

Nancy Stevenson, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7039
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1196

RIN:

3060-AF69

4278. CABLE HOME WIRING

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined.

Legal Authority:

47 USC 544(i)

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

On October 6, 1997, the FCC adopted a Report and Order and Second Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 97-7360) that amends its cable inside wiring rules to enhance competition in the video distribution marketplace. The Second FNPRM seeks comment on, among other things, whether there are circumstances where the FCC should adopt restrictions on exclusive contracts in order to further promote competition in the multiple dwelling unit marketplace. A Petition for Review was filed in the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit on November 24, 1997. The FCC has received petitions for reconsideration and has requested the 8th Circuit to hold the pending court case in abeyance until the Commission takes action on the pending petitions. The Court granted the Commission's request.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 11/17/92 57 FR 54209
R&O 03/02/93 58 FR 11970
NPRM 02/01/96 61 FR 3657
1st Order on Recon & FNPRM 02/16/96 61 FR 6210
FNRPM 09/03/97 62 FR 46453
R&O and 2d FNPRM 11/14/97 62 FR 60165

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Cheryl Kornegay, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7948
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1196
Email: ckornega@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AG02

4279. CLOSED CAPTIONING

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Other Significant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 613

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 79.1; 47 CFR 79.2

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

The FCC adopted regulations to ensure that video programming is accessible to persons with hearing disabilities through closed captioning. The rules were adopted in August 1997 and modified in response to petitions for reconsideration in September 1998. In April 2000, the FCC adopted rules to ensure the accessibility of televised emergency information to persons with hearing disabilities through closed captioning or another method of visual presentation.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NOI 12/15/95 60 FR 65052
Order 01/29/96 61 FR 2781
Order 03/12/96 61 FR 9963
Report 08/14/96 61 FR 42249
NPRM 02/03/97 62 FR 4959
Order 03/24/97 62 FR 13853
R&O 09/16/97 62 FR 48487
FNRPM 01/21/98 63 FR 3070
Order 10/20/98 63 FR 55959
Order 06/23/99 64 FR 33424
2nd R&O 05/09/00 65 FR 26757

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

None

Additional Information:

Additional Bureau: Consumer Information

Agency Contact:

Marcia Glauberman, Assistant Division Chief, Policy and Rules Division, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7046
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1196
Email: mglauber@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AG26

4280. CABLE ACT REFORM

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 154; 47 USC 522; 47 USC 543; 47 USC 544; 47 USC 548; 47 USC 552

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

This proceeding implements the cable reform section of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. It addresses several issues, including the cable rate complaint process, effective competition and subscriber notifications.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
Order & NPRM 04/30/96 61 FR 19013
Report & Order 07/02/99 64 FR 35948
Correction 08/06/99 64 FR 42855

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected:

State, Local

Agency Contact:

Nancy Stevenson, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7039
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1196

RIN:

3060-AG27

4281. COMPETITIVE AVAILABILITY OF NAVIGATION DEVICES

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 549

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

The Commission has adopted rules to address the mandate expressed in section 629 of the Communications Act to ensure the commercial availability of "navigation devices," the equipment used to access video programming and other services from multichannel video programming systems. Petitions for reconsideration were resolved in a recent order. The Commission also issued a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Declaratory Ruling. The Further Notice sought comment as to the effectiveness of the Commission's rules for achieving the commercial availability of navigation devices. Accompanying the Further Notice was a Declaratory Ruling which found that technology licenses requiring copy protection measures to be located within a navigation host device are consistent with the Commission's navigation devices rules.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 03/05/97 62 FR 10011
R&O 07/15/98 63 FR 38089
Order on Reconsideration 06/02/99 64 FR 29599
FNPRM & Declaratory Ruling 09/28/00 65 FR 58255

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Thomas Horan, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-2486
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1069
Email: thoran@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AG28

4282. POLE ATTACHMENT PROVISIONS

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Other Significant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 151; 47 USC 154(i); 47 USC 154(j); 47 USC 224; 47 USC 303; 47 USC 403

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 1.1401 to 1.1418

Legal Deadline:

Final, Statutory, February 8, 1998.

Abstract:

The Commission established rules relating to pole attachments. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 required that within two years the Commission prescribe regulations governing the charges for pole attachments for telecommunications attachers. These regulations are to be used by cable operators and telecommunications carriers to provide telecommunications services when the utility and attaching entity parties fail to resolve a dispute over such charges. The Report and Order released in 1998, prescribed regulations to govern these charges.
The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals released a decision in April of 2000 which challenged the Commission's authority over some aspects of the pole attachment rules. The Commission has filed a Petition for Rehearing. The case is now pending before the United States Supreme Court.
Separately, in April 2000, the Commission released a Report and Order addressing issues related to the formula used to calculate just and reasonable rates that utilities charge for pole attachments. Petitions for reconsideration of both the 1998 and 2000 orders were resolved by Order released in May 2001, excluding the issues currently before the United States Supreme Court.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 08/18/97 62 FR 43963
R&O 03/12/98 63 FR 12013
R&O 05/17/00 65 FR 31270
Erratum 05/31/00 65 FR 34820
Reconsideration Order 06/29/01 66 FR 34569

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

State

Agency Contact:

Cheryl King, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-2284
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-2297
Email: cking@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AG71

4283. DIGITAL MUST CARRY

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined.

Legal Authority:

47 USC 534

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

Section 614(b)(4)(B) of the Communications Act requires that, at the time the Commission prescribes standards for advanced television, it should "initiate a proceeding to establish any changes in the signal carriage requirements of cable television systems necessary to ensure cable carriage of those broadcast signals of local commercial television stations which have been changed to conform with such modified standards." In August of 1998, the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comments on the requirements of that section. In June 2000, based on responses to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission clarified that DTV-only television stations, in the context of auctioning analog channels 59-69, will ultimately have must carry rights. In January of 2001, the Commission issued a First Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking resolving a number of technical and legal issues, including clarification that digital-only TV stations are entitled to mandatory carriage.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 08/07/98 63 FR 42330
MO&O and FNPRM 07/12/00 65 FR 42879
FNPRM 03/26/01 66 FR 16523
First R&O 03/26/01 66 FR 16533

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Undetermined

Government Levels Affected:

Undetermined

Agency Contact:

Eloise Gore, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7200
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1069

RIN:

3060-AG91

4284. HORIZONTAL OWNERSHIP LIMITS

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined.

Legal Authority:

47 USC 151; 47 USC 154; 47 USC 303; 47 USC 533

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

Section 613 of the Communications Act requires the Commission to "prescribe rules and regulations establishing reasonable limits on the number of cable subscribers a person is authorized to reach through cable systems owned by such person, or in which such person has an attributable interest." On October 8, 1999, the Commission issued a Third Report and Order, FCC 99-289, in this matter. The Commission revised the horizontal ownership rules as follows: (1) all multichannel video subscribers will be counted when calculating the 30 percent ownership limit; (2) actual subscriber numbers, rather than potential subscriber numbers, will be used for calculating an owner's share; and (3) the minority exception which allowed a 35 percent ownership limit for minority-owned entities under certain circumstances was eliminated. On March 2, 2001, the District of Columbia Circuit Court reversed and remanded the cable subscriber limits. Pursuant to the court's remand, the Commission is reexamining its rules.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
Second MO&O on Recon and FNPRM 07/14/98 63 FR 37790
Third R&O 12/01/99 64 FR 67198
O on Recon 03/08/00 65 FR 12135
MO&O 06/08/00 65 FR 36382

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Holly Berland, Staff Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-2075
Fax: 202 418-1196

RIN:

3060-AH09

4285. APPLICATION OF NETWORK NONDUPLICATION, SYNDICATED EXCLUSIVITY, AND SPORTS BLACKOUT RULES TO SATELLITE RETRANSMISSION - SHVIA

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Other Significant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 339

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 73; 47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

The FCC proposed rules on its implementation of certain aspects of the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act of 1999. In October of 2000, the FCC issued an order adopting rules that apply the current cable rules for network non-duplication, syndicated program exclusivity and sports blackout to satellite carriers.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 02/02/00 65 FR 4927
Report and Order 11/14/00 65 FR 68082

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Eloise Gore, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7200
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1069

RIN:

3060-AH35

4286. RETRANSMISSION CONSENT ISSUES - SHVIA

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Other Significant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 325

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76.64(m); 47 CFR 76.65

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

The Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act of 1999 (SHVIA) requires broadcasters, until the year 2006, to negotiate in good faith with satellite carriers and other multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) with respect to their transmission of the broadcasters' signals, and prohibits broadcasters from entering into exclusive retransmission agreements.
The First Report and Order (Order) determined that the statute does not intend to subject retransmission consent negotiation to detailed substantive oversight by the Commission. Instead, the Order concludes that Congress intended that the Commission follow established precedent, particularly in the field of labor law, in implementing the good faith retransmission consent negotiation requirement. Consistent with this conclusion, the Order adopts a two-part test for good faith. The first part of the test consists of a brief, objective list of negotiation standards. The second part of the good faith test is based on a totality of the circumstances standard. Under this standard, an MVPD may present facts to the Commission which, even though they do not allege a violation of the specific standards enumerated above, given the totality of the circumstances constitute a failure to negotiate in good faith. The Commission's rules regarding the good faith negotiation requirement sunset on January 1, 2006. An MVPD believing itself to be aggrieved may file a complaint with the Commission.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 12/29/99 64 FR 72985
1st R&O 03/23/00 65 FR 23805

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Steven Broeckaert, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7200
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1069
Email: sbroecka@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AH36

4287. SATELLITE BROADCASTING SIGNAL CARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau

Priority:

Economically Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined.

Legal Authority:

47 USC 338; 47 USC 534; 47 USC 535

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 76

Legal Deadline:

Final, Statutory, November 29, 2000.

Abstract:

The Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act of 1999 (SHVIA) requires satellite carriers, by January 1, 2002, to carry upon request all local broadcast stations' signals. These signals must be carried in all local markets in which the satellite carriers carry at least one broadcast station signal, assuming this signal is licensed pursuant to section 122 of the Copyright Act. The SHVIA requires the Commission to issue rules implementing the Act's mandatory carriage requirements within one year of the SHVIA's enactment. On November 29, 2000 the Commission adopted a Report and Order that places satellite carriers on equal footing with cable operators with respect to the availability of programming. The applicable statutory provisions are found in section 1008 of the SHVIA and codified at section 338 of the Communications Act.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 06/30/00 65 FR 40564
NPRM Comment Period End 08/04/00
Report and Order 01/23/01 66 FR 7410

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

No

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Ben Bartolome, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Cable Services Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-2394
TDD Phone: 202 418-7172
Fax: 202 418-1069
Email: bbartolo@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AH45


Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Long-Term Actions

Common Carrier Bureau


4288. ADMINISTRATION OF THE NORTH AMERICAN NUMBERING PLAN

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Common Carrier Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 3 to 4; 47 USC 151; 47 USC 152 to 155; 47 USC 154(i); 47 USC 201 to 205; 47 USC 207 to 209; 47 USC 218; 47 USC 225 to 227; 47 USC 251 to 252; 47 USC 271; 47 USC 332; 47 USC 403

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 52.1 to 52.99; 47 CFR 151; 47 CFR 154; 47 CFR 201 to 205; 47 CFR 403

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

The Report and Order lays the foundation for the fair and effective administration of numbering in the United States. The Report and Order establishes a model for administration of numbering resources in a competitive environment. In this model, the FCC will set broad policy objectives, be the final arbiter of domestic numbering disputes and work closely with other member countries of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), the States, industry and consumers to ensure fair and effective number administration. The Report and Order creates the North American Number Council (NANC) under the Federal Advisory Committee Act. In the Third Report and Order, released on October 9, 1997, the Commission affirmed the NANC's selection of Lockheed Martin IMS as the new NANP administrator. The NANP administrator is a nongovernmental entity that is not aligned with any particular telecommunications industry segment, and upon selection and following a transition period, assumed Bellcore's current NANP administrator functions and the central office code administration functions currently handled by the dominant local exchange carrier in each area code. The rules were expanded to accommodate the requirements of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. See FCC 96-337, released August 8, 1996.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NOI 11/10/92 57 FR 53462
NPRM 05/10/94 59 FR 24103
R&O 07/28/95 60 FR 58737
2d R&O 09/06/96 61 FR 47284
3rd R&O 10/23/97 62 FR 55179

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

No

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Deborah Blue, Program Analyst, Federal Communications Commission, Common Carrier Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-2320
Fax: 202 418-2345
Email: dblue@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AF50

4289. USE OF N11 CODES AND OTHER ABBREVIATED DIALING ARRANGEMENTS

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Common Carrier Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 151; 47 USC 154(i); 47 USC 201 to 205; 47 USC 251(e)

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

In 1992, the FCC released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in CC Docket 92-105 proposing that local exchange carriers (LECs) be required to make N11 codes available for access to information service providers. In this proposal, LECs could establish any reasonable assignment criteria for such allocation, including "first come, first served." The FCC's General Counsel released a letter indicating it found no regulatory or legal obstacles to assignment of N11 codes for information services. On February 19, 1997, the FCC released a First Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in that Docket (FCC 97-51) which allows incumbent LECs, in addition to the States and Bell Communications Research (Bellcore), to continue to perform the N11 code administration functions that they performed at the time of enactment of the 1996 Act amendments to the 1934 Act, until further FCC action. The FCC concluded that: (1) 311 should be assigned as a national number for access to non-emergency police calls; (2) 711 should be assigned as a national number for access to telecommunications relay services (TRS); (3) all providers of telephone exchange service must be able to have their customers call 611 and 811 to reach their repair and business service offices; and (4) a LEC may not itself offer enhanced services using a 411 code or any other N11 code, unless that LEC offers access to the code on a reasonable nondiscriminatory basis to competing enhanced service providers in the local service area for which it is using the code to facilitate distribution of their enhanced services. In the FNPRM, the FCC asked for comment on: (1) the technical feasibility of implementing 711 for TRS access; (2) the possibility of developing an N11 gateway offering access to multiple TRS providers; (3) whether with such access, TRS calls would still be answered within mandatory minimum answer times; (4) whether such a gateway would be consistent with section 255; (5) whether other important disability services could be accessed thereby; (6) the possibility of providing both voice and text TRS services through the same abbreviated TRS code; (7) the proprietary nature of N11 codes; and (8) an FCC proposal to transfer administration of N11 codes at the local level from incumbent LECs to the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) administrator. Petitions for reconsideration or clarification on the order have been filed. Comments and replies were filed on March 31 and April 30, 1997, respectively. On June 16, 1999, the Commission released a Public Notice announcing that it would hold a public forum on September 8, 1999, on 711 access to TRS. The goal of the forum was to identify steps that must be taken to implement 711 access to TRS as well as obstacles to implementation and how those obstacles could be resolved.
On August 9, 2000, the Commission released a Second Report and Order (FCC 00-257) that addresses issues related to the deployment of 711 for access to TRS. The Commission required a nationwide rollout of 711 access to TRS and established an implementation framework. On July 31, 2000, the Commission released a Third Report and Order (FCC 00-256) that granted the petition of the United Way of America, and others, for nationwide assignment of the 211 abbreviated dialing code for access to community information and referral services. The Commission also granted the petition of the U.S. Department of Transportation for nationwide assignment of the 511 abbreviated dialing code for access to travel and traffic information. The Commission further addressed issues raised in petitions for reconsideration of the N11 First Report and Order and resolved outstanding issues from the N11 Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.
On August 29, 2000, the Commission released a Fourth Report and Order and Third Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in CC Docket 92-105 and a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in WT Docket 00-110 (FCC 00-327) to implement the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999. The Commission designated 911 as the universal emergency number and sought comment on appropriate transition periods and how the Commission should facilitate States' efforts to deploy comprehensive emergency communications systems.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 05/29/92 57 FR 22681
First R&O 02/26/97 62 FR 8633
FNPRM 02/26/97 62 FR 8671
Second R&O 09/11/00 65 FR 54799
Fourth R&O and Third NPRM 09/19/00 65 FR 56751
Third R&O 02/09/01 66 FR 9674
Second NPRM 04/05/01 66 FR 18059

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

No

Government Levels Affected:

None

Additional Information:

Additional Bureau: Consumer Information

Agency Contact:

Louise Klees-Wallace, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Common Carrier Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-1321
Fax: 202 418-1392

RIN:

3060-AF51

4290. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNIVERSAL SERVICE PORTIONS OF THE 1996 TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Common Carrier Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 151 et seq

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 54

Legal Deadline:

NPRM, Statutory, March 8, 1996.
Other, Statutory, November 8, 1996, Recommended decision.
Final, Statutory, May 8, 1997, Federal-State Joint Board R&O released May 8, 1997.

Abstract:

As required by the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the Commission sought comment on proposals for reforming universal service. On November 8, 1996, the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service issued a recommended decision on changes to the universal service support mechanisms. In addition, on January 10, 1997, the Commission issued an NPRM and NOI on changes to the Board of Directors of the National Exchange Carrier Association (NECA), regarding the administration of universal service. On May 8, 1997, the Commission, at the direction of Congress, released its order implementing the universal service portions of the 1996 Act. On December 30, 1997, the Commission issued the 4th Order on Reconsideration which made changes and clarifications to the May 8 Order. On June 22, 1998, the Commission issued the 5th Order on Reconsideration which revised the collection levels for the schools and libraries support mechanism through June 30, 1999, and revised the collection levels for the rural health care support mechanism through December 31, 1998. The 5th Order on Reconsideration also revised the priority with which schools and libraries and rural health care providers will receive support. On October 28, 1998, the Commission issued the 5th Report and Order, in which it adopted the model platform for its forward-looking economic cost methodology, which will be used to determine support for non-rural carriers beginning July 1, 1999. On November 21, 1998, the Commission issued the 8th Order on Reconsideration in which it consolidated the administration of universal service into a single entity known as the Universal Service Administrative Company or USAC. On November 25, 1998, the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service issued its Second Recommended Decision in which the Joint Board made certain recommendations to the Commission regarding the high cost support mechanism.
On May 28, 1999, the Commission issued the 13th Order on Reconsideration in which it adopted the principles of a Federal high-cost support mechanism that conformed to the Second Recommended Decision and in which it sought further comment on specific elements of the support methodology. In the 13th Order on Reconsideration, the Commission also decided to implement the new high-cost support mechanism on January 1, 2000 instead of July 1, 1999, as previously planned. On May 28, 1999, the Commission also issued a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in which it sought comment on proposed input values to be used in the forward-looking model to determine non-rural LECs' cost of providing supported services in high cost areas. On August 5, 1999, the Commission adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in which it sought comment to ascertain the availability of, and to understand the possible impediments to, deployment and subscribership in unserved and underserved areas of the Nation, including tribal lands and other insular areas.
On November 1, 1999, the Commission issued the Fourteenth Order on Reconsideration, in which it eliminated the requirement that only carriers that have been certified as eligible telecommunications carriers may receive credit against their universal service contributions for providing telecommunications services to rural health care providers at the lower urban rates. On November 1, 1999, the Commission also issued the Fifteenth Order on Reconsideration, in which it authorized support for any commercially available telecommunications service regardless of the bandwidth, and simplified the method for determining how much support a rural health care provider can receive. On November 2, 1999, the Commission issued the Ninth Report and Order and Eighteenth Order on Reconsideration in which it adopted a new forward-looking high-cost support mechanism that will enable States to ensure the reasonable comparability of non-rural carriers' intrastate rates. On November 2, 1999, the Commission also issued the Tenth Report and Order in which it completed the selection of a cost model to estimate forward-looking cost by adopting input values for the previously adopted cost model.
On June 30, 2000, the Commission issued the Twelfth Report and Order, Memorandum Opinion and Order, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, in response to the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking it adopted on August 5, 1999. In the Twelfth Report and Order, the Commission adopted measures to promote telecommunications subscribership and infrastructure deployment within American Indian and Alaska Native tribal communities.
On October 12, 2000, the Commission released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order to seek comment on proposals to modify the Commission's rules relating to contributions to the Federal universal service support mechanisms. On January 12, 2001, the Commission released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on the Recommended Decision of the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service (Joint Board) regarding a plan for reforming the universal service support mechanism for rural carriers. The Joint Board sent to the Commission the Rural Task Force Recommendation as a good foundation for implementing rural high-cost reform. The Rural Task Force recommends the use of a modified version of the current high-cost loop support mechanism based on carriers' embedded costs.
On May 23, 2001, the Commission released the Fourteenth Report and Order, Twenty-Second Order on Reconsideration and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. In the Fourteenth Report and Order, the Commission adopted a five-year plan that makes modifications to the high-cost loop support mechanism for rural carriers. These modifications were based on the recommendation of the Joint Board and will provide predictable levels of support so that rural carriers can continue to provide affordable service in rural America, while ensuring that consumers in all areas of the nation, including rural areas, have access to affordable and quality telecommunications services.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
Recommended Decision Federal-State Joint Board, Universal Service 11/08/96 61 FR 63778
1st R&O 05/08/97 62 FR 32862
2nd R&O 05/08/97 62 FR 32862
Order on Recon 07/10/97 62 FR 40742
R&O and 2nd Order on Recon 07/18/97 62 FR 41294
2nd R&O, and FNPRM 08/15/97 62 FR 47404
3rd R&O 10/14/97 62 FR 56118
2nd Order on Recon 11/26/97 62 FR 65036
4th Order on Recon 12/30/97 62 FR 2093
5th Order on Recon 06/22/98 63 FR 43088
5th R&O 10/28/98 63 FR 63993
8th Order on Recon 11/21/98
2nd Recommended Decision 11/25/98 63 FR 67837
13th Order on Recon 06/09/99 64 FR 30917
FNPRM 06/14/99 64 FR 31780
FNPRM 09/30/99 64 FR 52738
14th Order on Recon 11/16/99 64 FR 62120
15th Order on Recon 11/30/99 64 FR 66778
10th R&O 12/01/99 64 FR 67372
9th R&O and 18th Order on Recon 12/01/99 64 FR 67416
19th Order on Recon 12/30/99 64 FR 73427
20th Order on Recon 05/08/00 65 FR 26513
Public Notice 07/18/00 65 FR 44507
12th R&O, MO&O and FNPRM 08/04/00 65 FR 47883
FNPRM and Order 11/09/00 65 FR 67322
FNPRM 01/26/01 66 FR 7867
14th R&O and FNPRM 05/23/01 66 FR 30080

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Yes

Small Entities Affected:

Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected:

Undetermined

Agency Contact:

Sheryl Todd, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Common Carrier Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7400
Email: stodd@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AF85

4291. TOLL-FREE SERVICE ACCESS CODES

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Common Carrier Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 151; 47 USC 154(i); 47 USC 201 et seq; 47 USC 251(e)

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

This proceeding assures that toll-free numbers are allocated on an efficient, fair, and orderly basis.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 10/05/95 60 FR 57157
Second R&O 04/25/97 62 FR 20126
Third R&O 10/09/97 62 FR 55179
Fourth R&O and MO&O 03/30/98 63 FR 16440
Fifth R&O 07/05/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Undetermined

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Jennifer Gorny, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Common Carrier Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-2320

RIN:

3060-AG11

4292. IMPLEMENTATION OF SECTION 273 OF THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT OF 1996

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Common Carrier Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 151; 47 USC 153; 47 USC 154; 47 USC 157; 47 USC 201 to 209; 47 USC 218; 47 USC 251; 47 USC 273; 47 USC 403

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

This rulemaking implements provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 relating to the manufacturing of telecommunications equipment and customer premises equipment by the Bell Operating Companies and their affiliates.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 01/24/97 62 FR 3638

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Undetermined

Government Levels Affected:

None

Agency Contact:

Gregory Cooke, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Common Carrier Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-2351
Email: gcooke@fcc.gov

RIN:

3060-AG36

4293. IMPLEMENTATION OF NON-ACCOUNTING SAFEGUARDS, SEC. 271 & 272 OF COMMUNICATIONS ACT OF 1996 & REGULATORY TREATMENT OF LEC PROVISIONS OF INTEREXCHANGE SVCS. ORIG. IN LEC LOCAL EXCH. AREA

Agency:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Common Carrier Bureau

Priority:

Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:

47 USC 151; 47 USC 152; 47 USC 154; 47 USC 201 to 205; 47 USC 215; 47 USC 218; 47 USC 220; 47 USC 271; 47 USC 272; 47 USC 303(r)

CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)

47 CFR 1.720; 47 CFR 1.721; 47 CFR 1.735; 47 CFR 61.41; 47 CFR 61.58; 47 CFR 63.71; 47 CFR 64.702

Legal Deadline:

None

Abstract:

On December 24, 1996, the Commission adopted the Non-Accounting Safeguards Order in its proceeding implementing the non-accounting safeguards provision of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended by the Telecommunications Act of 1996. These provisions prescribe the manner in which the Bell Operating Companies (BOCs) may enter certain markets, including the provisions of in-region interLATA services. On October 1, 1999, the Commission denied several petitions for reconsideration of its initial Order and, on its own motion, clarified certain language in the Order relating to so-called "teaming arrangements." Certain BOCs subsequently appealed specific aspects of the Order to the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Columbia. On October 27, 2000, the Court granted the Commission's motion for a voluntary remand, and remanded the matter to the Commission. On November 8, 2000, the Commission sought further comment on the specific issues raised by the appeal. On April 11, 2001, the Commission released an Order on Remand, in which it examined the scope of the term "InterLATA Services" as it relates to Section 271 of the Act.

Timetable:

Next Action Undetermined

Action Date FR Cite
NPRM 07/29/96 61 FR 39392
First R&O 01/21/97 62 FR 2927
FNPRM 01/21/97 62 FR 2991
Second Order on Recon 07/07/97 62 FR 36216
Order 04/06/98 63 FR 16696
Second R&O 04/24/98 63 FR 20326
Erratum 06/25/98 63 FR 34603
Third O on Recon 10/01/99 64 FR 61527
Public Notice 11/08/00
Order on Remand 04/27/01 66 FR 36206

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:

Undetermined

Government Levels Affected:

Undetermined

Agency Contact:

Brent Olson, Federal Communications Commission, Common Carr