Federal Register #ET Docket No. 21-232

FCC Proposed Rulemaking on Communications Equipment Authorization Security Measures

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public input on proposed enhancements to its equipment authorization program to address national security and supply chain risks. - Government Buyer: - Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named in this notice - Products/Services Requested: - No specific products, part numbers, or quantities are requested - The notice proposes regulatory changes impacting communications equipment manufacturers and importers - Notable Requirements and Proposals: - Bifurcation of the Covered List into producer/provider-based and production location-based categories - Addressing white labeling of covered equipment - Mandatory hardware and software bill of materials (HBOM/SBOM) disclosures - Prohibitions or presumptions against authorizing equipment with Covered List components or software - New certification requirements for devices in sectors such as UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems), UAS critical components, and routers - Reforms to equipment importation, marketing, and pre-authorization rules - Restrictions on the use of the FCC logo - Streamlined revocation procedures and codified waivers for updates - Modernization of the equipment authorization database - Updated rules for submarine cable equipment - Requirement for a U.S.-based liable party for FCC-certified equipment - Focus on national security, supply chain transparency, and new certification/disclosure obligations - The FCC invites comments from the public and stakeholders on these proposed rules

Description

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to seek comments on additional measures to enhance the security and integrity of its equipment authorization program. Proposed measures include bifurcating the Covered List into producer/provider-based and production location-based categories, addressing white labeling of covered equipment, hardware and software bill of materials disclosure requirements, and implementing prohibitions or presumptions against authorizing equipment with Covered List components or software. Other proposals involve certification requirements for devices in Covered List sectors, reforms to equipment importation, marketing, and pre-authorization rules, restrictions on the use of the FCC logo, and modernization of the equipment authorization database. Comments are due by September 8, 2026, with reply comments due by September 21, 2026.

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