FCC Seeks Comments on Cutting Form Filler
Published Date: 3/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and other agencies to comment on their paperwork rules to make them easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want to reduce the hassle of filling out forms and are accepting feedback until April 18, 2025. This effort aims to save time and possibly money by cutting down unnecessary paperwork.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
All handsets must be hearing-aid compatible
The FCC adopted a rule requiring all wireless handset models to be hearing aid compatible (a 100% requirement) in a Report and Order adopted October 17, 2024 and released October 18, 2024. The rule is intended to ensure consumers with hearing loss have equal access to the same handset models as other consumers; it becomes effective after OMB completes its review of the revised rules.
New Bluetooth coupling certification requirement
The FCC requires that a certain number of handset models offered for sale or use in the United States meet Bluetooth coupling requirements, and it requires handset manufacturers to submit a sworn declaration attesting compliance. The declaration (in section 20.19(b)(3)(iii)) must state (1) the specific Bluetooth coupling standard in each handset model, (2) that the model was tested for compliance with that standard, and (3) after transition to a non‑proprietary Bluetooth requirement, that the included Bluetooth technology meets the Bluetooth functionality requirements.
Digital labeling option and QR-code requirement
The FCC allows manufacturers and service providers to use digital labeling instead of printed inserts or manuals (section 20.19(f)(3)). Companies choosing digital labeling must maintain publicly accessible websites with the required hearing-aid-compatibility information and provide consumers a Quick-Response (QR) code and the related website address in the packaging.
Streamlined annual certification (Form 855 replaces Form 655)
After the 100% hearing aid compatibility transition period ends for handset manufacturers, manufacturers will stop filing FCC Form 655 and instead file FCC Form 855; service providers will also file Form 855. FCC Form 855 is described as a streamlined certification form that removes outdated questions and collects only relevant information (see section 20.19(i)(4)-(5)).
Clear labeling and online info about compatibility
Handset packaging must indicate whether a model includes Bluetooth coupling, telecoil coupling, or both, and specify which Bluetooth technology it uses; packaging must also include info on hearing aid compatibility settings and how to turn them on or off (see section 20.19(f)(1)-(2)). Manufacturers and service providers must post on publicly accessible websites which models meet telecoil and Bluetooth requirements and must list a model's conversational gain when applicable (section 20.19(h)).
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