Unified Agenda
47 CFR Ch. I
AGENCY:
Federal Communications Commission.
ACTION:
Semiannual regulatory agenda.
SUMMARY:
Twice a year, in spring and fall, 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:
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.
William F. Caton, Acting Secretary, Federal Communications Commission.
| CABLE SERVICES BUREAU—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3677 | Cable Television Rate Regulation | 3060-AF41 |
| 3678 | Cable Television Rate Regulation: Cost of Service | 3060-AF48 |
| 3679 | Customer Service Standards | 3060-AF69 |
| 3680 | Cable Home Wiring | 3060-AG02 |
| 3681 | Closed Captioning | 3060-AG26 |
| 3682 | Cable Act Reform | 3060-AG27 |
| 3683 | Competitive Availability of Navigation Devices | 3060-AG28 |
| 3684 | Pole Attachment Provisions | 3060-AG71 |
| 3685 | Digital Must Carry | 3060-AG91 |
| 3686 | Horizontal Ownership Limits | 3060-AH09 |
| 3687 | Application of Network Nonduplication, Syndicated Exclusivity, and Sports Blackout Rules to Satellite Retransmission - SHVIA | 3060-AH35 |
| 3688 | Retransmission Consent Issues - SHVIA | 3060-AH36 |
| 3689 | Satellite Broadcasting Signal Carriage Requirements | 3060-AH45 |
| 3690 | Exclusive Contract Prohibition of the Program Access Rules | 3060-AH91 |
| COMMON CARRIER BUREAU—Proposed Rule Stage | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3691 | Computer III Further Remand Proceedings: Bell Operating Company Provision of Enhanced Services | 3060-AG72 |
| COMMON CARRIER BUREAU—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3692 | Administration of the North American Numbering Plan | 3060-AF50 |
| 3693 | Use of N11 Codes and Other Abbreviated Dialing Arrangements | 3060-AF51 |
| 3694 | Implementation of the Universal Service Portions of the 1996 Telecommunications Act | 3060-AF85 |
| 3695 | Toll-Free Service Access Codes | 3060-AG11 |
| 3696 | Implementation of Section 273 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 | 3060-AG36 |
| 3697 | Policies and Rules Governing Interstate Pay-Per-Call and Other Information Services Pursuant to the Telecommunications Act of 1996 | 3060-AG42 |
| 3698 | Telecommunications Carriers' Use of Customer Proprietary Network Information and Other Customer Information | 3060-AG43 |
| 3699 | Implementation of the Subscriber Selection Changes Provision of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 | 3060-AG46 |
| 3700 | Implementation of Section 402(b)(1)(a) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996; LEC Tariff Streamlining Provisions | 3060-AG47 |
| 3701 | Access Charge Reform | 3060-AG49 |
| 3702 | Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 | 3060-AG50 |
| 3703 | Enhanced 911 Services for Wireline | 3060-AG60 |
| 3704 | Detariffing of Competitive Local Exchange Carriers' Interstate Exchange Access Services | 3060-AG73 |
| 3705 | In the Matter of the Telecommunications Relay Services, the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Telecommunications Act of 1996 | 3060-AG75 |
| 3706 | 1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of Accounting and Cost Allocation Requirements | 3060-AG98 |
| 3707 | 1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of ARMIS Reporting Requirements | 3060-AG99 |
| 3708 | Performance Measurements and Reporting Requirements for Operations Support Systems, Interconnection, Operator Services, and Directory Assistance | 3060-AH00 |
| 3709 | Deployment of Wireline Services Offering Advanced Telecommunications Capability | 3060-AH03 |
| 3710 | Prescribing the Authorized Rate of Return for Interstate Services of Local Exchange Carriers | 3060-AH18 |
| 3711 | 1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Review of Depreciation Requirements for Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers | 3060-AH20 |
| 3712 | Comprehensive Review of Accounting Requirements and ARMIS Reporting Requirements, Phase 1 | 3060-AH43 |
| 3713 | Local Telephone Networks That LECs Must Make Available to Competitors | 3060-AH44 |
| 3714 | 2000 Biennial Regulatory Review — Telecommunications Service Quality Reporting Requirements | 3060-AH72 |
| 3715 | Access Charge Reform and Universal Service Reform | 3060-AH74 |
| 3716 | 2000 Biennial Regulatory Review — Comprehensive Review of the Accounting Requirements and ARMIS Reporting Requirements for Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers; Phase 2 and Phase 3 | 3060-AH76 |
| 3717 | Comprehensive Review of the Accounting Requirements and ARMIS Reporting Requirements for Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers; Phase 1 | 3060-AH77 |
| 3718 | Streamlining Procedures for Common Carrier Transfers of Control | 3060-AH79 |
| 3719 | Numbering Resource Optimization | 3060-AH80 |
| 3720 | Performance Measurements and Standards for Unbundled Network Elements and Interconnection | 3060-AI00 |
| 3721 | Performance Measurements and Standards for Interstate Special Access Services | 3060-AI01 |
| 3722 | Customer Premises Equipment/Enhanced Services Bundling Restrictions in Computer II | 3060-AI03 |
| COMMON CARRIER BUREAU—Completed Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3723 | 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 | 3060-AG37 |
| 3724 | Access Charge Reform for Rate-of-Return Local Exchange Carriers | 3060-AH01 |
| CONSUMER INFORMATION BUREAU—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3725 | 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 Disabilities | 3060-AG58 |
| 3726 | In the Matter of Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services for Individuals With Hearing and Speech Disabilities; CC Docket No. 98-67 | 3060-AG76 |
| 3727 | Establishment of Rules Governing Procedures To Be Followed When Informal Complaints Are Filed by Consumers Against Entities Regulated by the Commission | 3060-AI02 |
| ENFORCEMENT BUREAU—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3728 | In the Matter of Amendment of Part 73, Subpart G, of the Commission's Rules Regarding the Emergency Alert System | 3060-AF21 |
| OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3729 | MSS Spectrum Allocation | 3060-AF75 |
| 3730 | Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure at 5 GHz | 3060-AG19 |
| 3731 | Allocation of 455-456 MHz and 459-460 MHz | 3060-AG89 |
| 3732 | Dedicated Short Range Communications of Intelligent Transportation Services | 3060-AG94 |
| 3733 | Regulations for RF Lighting Devices | 3060-AG95 |
| 3734 | Industry Coordination Committee System for Broadcast Digital Television Service | 3060-AH13 |
| 3735 | 3650-3700 Government Transfer Band | 3060-AH14 |
| 3736 | Certification of Equipment in the 24.05-24.25 GHz Band at Field Strengths Up to 2500 mV/m | 3060-AH16 |
| 3737 | Fixed Satellite Service and Terrestrial System in the Ku-Band | 3060-AH17 |
| 3738 | Spread Spectrum Devices | 3060-AH25 |
| 3739 | Wireless Medical Telemetry Service | 3060-AH27 |
| 3740 | Establishment of an Improved Model for Predicting the Broadcast Television Field Strength Received at Individual Locations | 3060-AH37 |
| 3741 | Conducted Emission Limits | 3060-AH46 |
| 3742 | Revision of the Rules Regarding Ultra-Wideband Transmission | 3060-AH47 |
| 3743 | Software Defined Radio Authorization | 3060-AH64 |
| 3744 | New Advanced Wireless Services | 3060-AH65 |
| 3745 | Reallocation of 27 MHz Spectrum | 3060-AH66 |
| 3746 | Revisions to Broadcast Auxiliary Service Rules | 3060-AH78 |
| 3747 | Part 15 Biennial Review | 3060-AH92 |
| OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY—Completed Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3748 | Wind Profiler Radar Systems | 3060-AF45 |
| 3749 | Millimeter Wave Spectrum Allocation | 3060-AF61 |
| 3750 | Equipment Authorization Streamline II/Mutual Recognition Agreements and the GMPCS MOU | 3060-AG96 |
| 3751 | Uniden Scanners/Cellular Radio Signals | 3060-AG97 |
| OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3752 | Amendment of the Ex Parte Rules in Joint Board Proceedings | 3060-AH02 |
| 3753 | Amendment of Section 1.1204 of the Commission's Ex Parte Rules | 3060-AH58 |
| 3754 | Amendment of Section 1.17 of the Commission's Rules Concerning Truthful Statements to the Commission | 3060-AH86 |
| INTERNATIONAL BUREAU—Proposed Rule Stage | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3755 | Policies and Rules for Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit, Fixed Satellite Service in the KA-Band; IB Docket No. 02-19 | 3060-AH93 |
| 3756 | Enforcement of Other Nations' Prohibitions Against the Uncompleted Call Signaling Configuration of International Callback Service; IB Docket No. 02-18 | 3060-AH94 |
| 3757 | Space Station Licensing Reform; IB Dockets 00-248 and 02-34 | 3060-AH98 |
| INTERNATIONAL BUREAU—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3758 | Streamlining the Commission's Rules and Regulations for Satellite Application and Licensing Procedures; IB Docket No. 95-117 | 3060-AD70 |
| 3759 | Satellite Communications — NGSO Mobile Satellite Service; CC Docket No. 92-166 | 3060-AF42 |
| 3760 | Establishing Rules and Policies for the Use of Spectrum for Mobile Satellite Service in the L-Band; IB Docket No. 96-132 | 3060-AF89 |
| 3761 | Preemption of Local Zoning Regulation of Satellite Earth Stations; IB Docket No. 95-59 | 3060-AF92 |
| 3762 | 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. 90-357 | 3060-AF93 |
| 3763 | Redesignation of the 27.5-29.5 GHz Frequency Band; CC Docket No. 92-297 | 3060-AF94 |
| 3764 | 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. 93-23 | 3060-AG31 |
| 3765 | 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. 97-95 | 3060-AH23 |
| 3766 | Establishment of Policies and Service Rules for the Mobile Satellite Service in the 2 GHz Band; IB Docket No. 99-81 | 3060-AH28 |
| 3767 | Policies for the Direct Broadcast Satellite Service; IB Docket No. 98-21 | 3060-AH29 |
| 3768 | 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. 98-96 | 3060-AH30 |
| 3769 | Amendment to Regulatory Policies Governing Domestic Fixed Satellites and Separate International Satellite Systems; IB Docket No. 95-41 | 3060-AH48 |
| 3770 | Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite; IB Docket No. 99-67 | 3060-AH49 |
| 3771 | Direct Broadcast Public Interest Obligations; MM Docket No. 93-25 | 3060-AH59 |
| 3772 | Streamlining Earth Station Licensing Rules; IB Docket No. 00-248 | 3060-AH60 |
| 3773 | 2000 Biennial Review — Amendment of Parts 43 and 63 of the Commission's Rules; IB Docket No. 00-231 | 3060-AH62 |
| 3774 | Licensing and Coordination of Earth Stations in the Fixed-Satellite Services; IB Docket No. 00-203 | 3060-AH63 |
| 3775 | Alaska Bush Earth Station Policy; IB Docket No. 02-30 | 3060-AH99 |
| INTERNATIONAL BUREAU—Completed Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3776 | Streamlining Regulations Related to International Common Carriers; IB Docket No. 98-118 | 3060-AG84 |
| 3777 | 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. 98-172 | 3060-AH21 |
| 3778 | Consideration of Applications Under the Cable Landing License Act; IB Docket No. 00-106 | 3060-AH50 |
| MASS MEDIA BUREAU—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3779 | Transfer of Control of Non-Stock Entities (MM Docket No. 89-77) | 3060-AE31 |
| 3780 | Filing of Television Network Affiliation Contracts (MM Docket No. 95-40) | 3060-AF80 |
| 3781 | Rules Governing Broadcast Television Advertising (MM Docket No. 95-90) | 3060-AF81 |
| 3782 | Minor Modifications of Broadcast Licenses Without Prior Construction Permit (MM Docket No. 96-58) | 3060-AG30 |
| 3783 | Review of Technical Rules in Parts 73 and 74 (MM Docket No. 98-93) | 3060-AG81 |
| 3784 | Digital Audio Broadcasting Systems (MM Docket No. 99-325) | 3060-AH40 |
| 3785 | Ancillary or Supplemental Use of DTV Capacity by Non-Commercial Licensees (MM Docket No. 98-203) | 3060-AH53 |
| 3786 | Periodic Review of Rules and Policies Affecting the Conversion to DTV (MM Docket No. 00-39) | 3060-AH54 |
| 3787 | Children's TV, Obligations of Digital TV Broadcasters (MM Docket No. 00-167) | 3060-AH68 |
| 3788 | Extension of Filing Requirements for Children's TV Programming Report (MM Docket No. 00-44) | 3060-AH69 |
| 3789 | Radio Market Definitions (MM Docket No. 00-244) | 3060-AH70 |
| 3790 | Enhanced and Standardized Disclosure (MM Docket No. 00-168) | 3060-AH71 |
| 3791 | Revision of EEO Rules and Policies; MM Docket No. 98-204 | 3060-AH95 |
| 3792 | Reexamination of Comparative Standards for Noncommercial Educational Applicants; MM Docket No. 95-31 | 3060-AH96 |
| 3793 | Cross Ownership of Broadcast Stations and Newspapers | 3060-AH97 |
| MASS MEDIA BUREAU—Completed Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3794 | Newspaper/Broadcast Cross-Ownership (MM Docket No. 96-197) | 3060-AG53 |
| 3795 | Dual Network Rule (MM Docket No. 00-108) | 3060-AH51 |
| 3796 | Experimental Broadcast Station Multiple Ownership Rule (MM Docket No. 00-105) | 3060-AH52 |
| OFFICE OF MANAGING DIRECTOR—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3797 | Assessment and Collection of Regulatory Fees for FY 2002 | 3060-AH85 |
| WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUREAU—Long-Term Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3798 | Amendment of the Commission's Rules Concerning Maritime Communications | 3060-AF14 |
| 3799 | Future Development of 800 MHz SMR; Competitive Bidding Wide Area | 3060-AF47 |
| 3800 | Resale and Roaming Obligations Pertaining to Commercial Mobile Radio Services | 3060-AF58 |
| 3801 | Implementation of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act, Competitive Bidding; Narrowband PCS Competitive Bidding Rules | 3060-AF99 |
| 3802 | Implementation of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act, Competitive Bidding; 218-219 MHz Competitive Bidding Rules | 3060-AG00 |
| 3803 | 39 GHz Channel Plan | 3060-AG16 |
| 3804 | 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 Cap | 3060-AG21 |
| 3805 | Revision of the Rules To Ensure Compatibility With 911 Emergency Calling Systems | 3060-AG34 |
| 3806 | In the Matter of the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act | 3060-AG74 |
| 3807 | Development of Operational, Technical, and Spectrum Requirements for Public Safety Communications Requirements | 3060-AG85 |
| 3808 | Multiple Access Systems | 3060-AG86 |
| 3809 | Amendment of Part I of the Commission's Rules — Competitive Bidding Procedures | 3060-AG87 |
| 3810 | Amendment of Part 90 of the Rules To Adopt Regulations for Automatic Vehicle Monitoring Systems | 3060-AH12 |
| 3811 | Service Rules for the 746-764 and 776-794 MHz Bands, and Revisions to Part 27 of the Commission's Rules | 3060-AH32 |
| 3812 | Implementation of Sections 309(j) and 337 of the Communications Act of 1934 as Amended | 3060-AH33 |
| 3813 | 1998 Biennial Regulatory Review — Spectrum Aggregation Limits for Wireless Telecommunications Carriers | 3060-AH34 |
| 3814 | Amendment to Parts 1, 2, 87 and 101 of the Rules to License Fixed Services at 24 GHz | 3060-AH41 |
| 3815 | Part 101 — Terrestrial Microwave Fixed Radio Services | 3060-AH42 |
| 3816 | Amendment of Parts 13 and 80 Governing Maritime Communications | 3060-AH55 |
| 3817 | Amendment of the Rules Regarding Installment Payment Financing for Personal Communications Services Licensees | 3060-AH57 |
| 3818 | Transfer of the 3650 Through 3700 MHz Band and the 4.9 GHz Band From Federal Government Use | 3060-AH75 |
| 3819 | 2000 Biennial Regulatory Review Spectrum Aggregation Limits for Commercial Mobile Radio Services | 3060-AH81 |
| 3820 | In the Matter of Promoting Efficient Use of Spectrum Through Elimination of Barriers to the Development of Secondary Markets | 3060-AH82 |
| 3821 | In the Matter of Automatic and Manual Roaming Obligations Pertaining to Commercial Mobile Radio Services | 3060-AH83 |
| 3822 | Amendment of Part 90 for Licensing Low Power Operations in 450-470 MHz Band | 3060-AH84 |
| 3823 | Reallocation of the 216-220 MHz, 1390-1395 MHz, 1427-1429 MHz, 1429-1432 MHz, 1432-1435 MHz, 1670-1675 MHz, and 2385-2390 MHz Government Transfer Bands. | 3060-AH87 |
| 3824 | Review of Quiet Zones Application Procedures | 3060-AH88 |
| 3825 | Reallocation and Service Rules for the 698-746 MHz Spectrum Band (Television Channels 52-59) | 3060-AH89 |
| 3826 | Implementation of 911 Act | 3060-AH90 |
| WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUREAU—Completed Actions | Sequence Number | Title | Regulation Identification Number |
|---|---|---|
| 3827 | Refarming | 3060-AF35 |
3677. CABLE TELEVISION RATE REGULATION
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau
Priority:
Other Significant
Legal Authority:
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.
| 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
3678. CABLE TELEVISION RATE REGULATION: COST OF SERVICE
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau
Priority:
Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority:
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.
| 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
3679. 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.
| 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
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.
| 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 |
| First Order on Recon & FNPRM | 02/16/96 | 61 FR 6210 |
| FNRPM | 09/03/97 | 62 FR 46453 |
| R&O and Second 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
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau
Priority:
Other Significant
Legal Authority:
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.
| 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 |
| Second 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
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.
| 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
3683. COMPETITIVE AVAILABILITY OF NAVIGATION DEVICES
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau
Priority:
Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority:
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.
| 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
3684. 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.
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.
| 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
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau
Priority:
Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined.
Legal Authority:
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.
| 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
3686. 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 horizontal and vertical limits. (Time Warner Entertainment Co. v. FCC, 240 F.3d 1126 (DC cir.2001)). Pursuant to the court's remand, the Commission is soliciting comment.
| 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 |
| Order on Recon | 03/08/00 | 65 FR 12135 |
| MO&O | 06/08/00 | 65 FR 36382 |
| FNPRM | 10/11/01 | 66 FR 51905 |
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
3687. 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:
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. Petitions for reconsideration were filed in response to that order.
| 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
3688. RETRANSMISSION CONSENT ISSUES - SHVIA
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau
Priority:
Other Significant
Legal Authority:
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.
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
| NPRM | 12/29/99 | 64 FR 72985 |
| First 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
3689. 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. The Commission implementing satellite broadcast signal carriage rule is 47 CFR 76.66.
| 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 |
| Announcement of Effective Date | 06/29/01 | 66 FR 34582 |
| Order on Reconsideration | 09/26/01 | 66 FR 49124 |
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
3690. ¤ EXCLUSIVE CONTRACT PROHIBITION OF THE PROGRAM ACCESS RULES
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Cable Services Bureau
Priority:
Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority:
CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)
47 CFR 76.1002
Legal Deadline:
NPRM, Statutory, October 5, 2002.
Abstract:
Section 628(c)(2)(D) of the Communications Act generally prohibits, in areas served by a cable operator, exclusive contracts for satellite cable programming between vertically integrated programming vendors and cable operators. Pursuant to section 628(c)(5), the prohibition on exclusive programming contracts contained in section 628(c)(2)(D) will cease to be effective on October 5, 2002, unless the FCC conducts a proceeding and finds that such prohibition continues to be necessary to preserve and protect competition and diversity in the distribution of video programming. In October 2001, the FCC issued an NPRM to initiate a proceeding in order to make that determination.
The NPRM sought comment on: (1) Whether section 628(c)(2)(D) of the Communications Act should cease to be effective pursuant to the sunset provision contained in section 628(c)(5); (2) the effect, if any, section 628(c)(2)(D) has had on competition in local and national markets; (3) the degree to which, if at all, clustering and continuing consolidation within the communications industry should inform our decision on the possible sunset of the exclusivity prohibition; (4) the effects of exclusivity in the multichannel video programming marketplace; (5) the impact the prohibition on exclusivity has had on diversity in programming; (6) whether it would be advisable, and consistent with the FCC's statutory authority, to retain the rule only for some types of programming or in some specific cases; (7) how other program access provisions would function should the exclusivity prohibition sunset; (8) what future procedures the FCC should undertake if the prohibition on exclusivity is retained; and (9) any other issues appropriate to our inquiry in accordance with section 628(c)(5).
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
| NPRM | 10/31/01 | 66 FR 54972 |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Yes
Small Entities Affected:
Businesses
Government Levels Affected:
None
Agency Contact:
Karen Kosar, Attorney, Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Bureau, 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-7200
Fax: 202 418-1069
Email: kkosar@fcc.gov
RIN:
3060-AH91
3691. COMPUTER III FURTHER REMAND PROCEEDINGS: BELL OPERATING COMPANY PROVISION OF ENHANCED SERVICES
Agency:
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)/Common Carrier Bureau
Priority:
Other Significant
Legal Authority:
47 USC 151; 47 USC 152; 47 USC 154; 47 USC 160; 47 USC 161; 47 USC 202 to 205; 47 USC 251; 47 USC 271; 47 USC 272; 47 USC 274 to 276
CFR Citation: (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)
47 CFR 51; 47 CFR 53; 47 CFR 64
Legal Deadline:
None
Abstract:
On January 30, 1998, the FCC released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) proposing to streamline the safeguards under which the Bell Operating Companies (BOCs) provide information (or enhanced) services, such as voice mail and electronic messaging. The FCC sought comment on tentative conclusions relating to nonstructural safeguards, Comparably Efficient Interconnection (CEI) plans, and network information disclosure rules, among other things. Finally, the FNPRM sought to build a record on which to respond to a partial remand of certain orders by the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. On February 25, 1999, the Commission adopted a Report and Order which streamlined the Commission's CEI and network information disclosure rules. Although the BOCs must continue to comply with their CEI obligations, they are no longer required to obtain pre-approval of their CEI plans and amendments from the Commission before initiating or altering an intra-LATA information service. Instead, the Commission requires the BOCs to post their CEI plans on their publicly accessible Internet sites, and to notify the Common Carrier Bureau upon such posting. The Commission removed the network information disclosure rules set forth in the Computer II and Computer III proceedings, with the narrow exception of the Computer II rules that require carriers to disclose changes that could affect how customer premises equipment (CPE) is attached to the network. On March 7, 2001, the FCC released a Public Notice requesting further comment on the outstanding issues discussed in its January 30, 1998 FNPRM.
Because the issues in this FNPRM overlap with certain issues that the Commission is now considering in a separate docket regarding broadband services, the Commission has incorporated the FNPRM into the broadband proceeding insofar as the FNPRM relates to the BOCs' obligations to promote access to their networks with respect to broadband services. The broadband proceeding is entitled, "Appropriate Framework for Broadband Access to the Internet Over Wireline Facilities; Universal Service Obligations of Broadband Providers," CC Docket No. 02-33, NPRM, FCC 02-42 (rel. Feb. 15, 2002).
| Action | Date | FR Cite |
| FNPRM | 02/26/98 | 63 FR 9749 |
| R&O | 03/24/99 | 64 FR 14141 |
| Public Notice | 03/15/01 | 66 FR 15064 |
| NPRM | 02/15/02 | 67 FR 9232 |
| NPRM Comment Period End | 04/15/02 | |
| Reply Comment Period End | 05/14/02 |
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required:
Undetermined
Government Levels Affected:
Undetermined
Agency Contact:
Jodie Donovan-May, Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission, Common Carrier Bureau, 445 12th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20554
Phone: 202 418-1580
Fax: 202 418-1413
RIN:
3060-AG72
3692. 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.
| 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 |
| Second R&O | 09/06/96 | 61 FR 47284 |
| Third 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
3693. 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.
| 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
3694. 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.
On March 14, 2001, the Commission issued an order modifying the methodology used to assess contributions to universal service. The methodology was modified to reduce the interval between the accrual of revenues and the assessment of contributions based on those revenues. The order reduced the interval from an average of one year to an average of six months.
On May 8, 2001, the Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in which sought comment on how to streamline and reform both the manner in which the Commission assesses carrier contributions to the universal service fund and the manner in which carriers may recover those costs from their customers.
On May 22, 2001, the Commission adopted a five-year interim freeze of the Part 36 jurisdictional separations rules, pending comprehensive reform of the separations process. The five-year interim freeze was based upon the July 21, 2000 Recommended Decision of the Federal-State Joint Board on Separations. Under the interim freeze, the Part 36 categories and jurisdictional allocation factors of price cap incumbent LECs are frozen, while rate-of-return carriers had the option to freeze only their jurisdictional allocation factors. The interim freeze is in effect from July 1, 2001, to June 30, 2006 or until comprehensive reform is completed, whichever comes first.
On November 8, 2001, the Commission released the Fifteenth Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Further Notice) reforming the interstate access charge and universal service support system for rate-of-return incumbent carriers. The Order established a new interstate support mechanism to replace implicit support in the interstate access rate structure of rate-of-return carriers with explicit, portable support. Among other things, the Further Notice sought comment on consolidating the existing Long Term Support mechanism with the new support mechanism created in the Order.
On January 25, 2002, the Commission released a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order (Further Notice), in which it sought comment on modifications to the rules governing the schools and libraries support mechanism. The modifications address changes that would make the program more efficient, ensure that the benefits of the program are distributed in an equitable manner, and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. In addition, the order denied certain petitions for reconsideration relating to unused funds.
On February 15, 2002, the Commission released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order, in which it sought comment on the issues from the Ninth Report and Order remanded by the United States Court of Appeals for the