FCC Proposes Banning More Bad Actors from Programs
Published Date: 4/9/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC is updating its rules to better stop waste, fraud, and abuse by adding new reporting requirements and expanding who can be suspended or banned from programs. These changes affect companies and individuals working with the FCC and aim to protect taxpayer money. Comments on the proposed rules are open until May 11, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 5 costs, 0 mixed.
Suspension/Debarment Could Cover SCRP
The FCC seeks comment on extending its suspension and debarment rules to the Supply Chain Reimbursement Program (SCRP). The document notes the SCRP has processed over 50,000 reimbursement claims and approved approximately $1.3 billion in disbursements to recipients.
Mandatory Disclosure Requirement Adopted
The FCC proposes adopting the OMB Uniform Guidance mandatory disclosure rule (2 CFR 200.113) so any applicant, recipient, or subrecipient of Federal award funds must promptly disclose credible evidence of Federal criminal violations involving fraud, conflict of interest, bribery, or gratuity to the agency and the Office of Inspector General. Program certifications would be modified to require applicants and recipients to show they comply with this disclosure rule when participating in FCC programs.
Default Coverage for Future FCC Assistance Programs
The FCC proposes that the suspension and debarment framework adopted in the Report and Order would apply by default to any future Universal Service Fund (USF) or TRS programs, NDBEDP, or similar financial assistance programs the Commission creates. The FCC tentatively concludes this default will improve sustainability of funding for those programs.
New Certification for Program Participants
The FCC proposes that participants in Covered Programs (including USF programs such as High-Cost, E-Rate, Lifeline, and Rural Health Care, plus TRS and NDBEDP) must sign a new certification stating they have read and complied with the suspension and debarment rules adopted in the Report and Order. This certification would be added to existing information collection mechanisms used when applying for or receiving FCC financial assistance.
Possible Requirement for Compliance Officers
The FCC seeks comment on additional safeguards such as requiring appointment of compliance officers as part of any compliance plan or adding further certifications for participants receiving FCC financial assistance. These are options the FCC may adopt to enhance accountability among recipients.
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