FCC Seeks Input on Streamlining Confidential Information Protection Paperwork
Published Date: 11/17/2025
Notice
Summary
The FCC is checking in on a paperwork process that helps protect confidential info from businesses, governments, and nonprofits. They want your thoughts on how to make this easier and clearer, especially for small businesses. Comments are due by January 16, 2026, and the process takes about 1-2 hours per response—no big fees, just your time and input!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
1–2 Hour Paperwork Burden Per Response
If your organization submits confidential information to the FCC, each response to this information collection is estimated to take about 1–2 hours. The FCC estimates 2,400 respondents and a total annual burden of 4,300 hours for OMB Control Number 3060-0862; comments are due January 16, 2026.
Small Businesses Can Seek Reduced Burden
The FCC specifically requests ways to further reduce the information collection burden on small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees and invites comments by January 16, 2026.
Recordkeeping Required for Confidential Access
Under the FCC's Model Protective Order, a party granted access to confidential materials must keep a written record of all copies made and provide that record to the submitter on request; this is a recordkeeping and third‑party disclosure requirement when access is granted.
Clarified Submission Guidance for Confidential Requests
The FCC amended 47 CFR 0.459(b) to list the types of information to include when you submit materials and request confidential treatment, providing guidance to the public on what to include with confidentiality requests.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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