FCC Seeks Approval to Lighten Small Biz Paperwork Load
Published Date: 12/3/2025
Notice
Summary
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and small businesses to share their thoughts on how to make paperwork easier and less time-consuming. They want to keep collecting important info but reduce the hassle, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. Comments are open until January 2, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to help shape the process!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Large Form 477 Time Burden
If you are a reporting entity (business, not-for-profit, or state/local/tribal government), FCC Form 477 requires an average of 289 hours per response and must be filed semi‑annually. The FCC lists 3,400 respondents and 6,800 responses, for a total annual burden of 1,965,200 hours, and states the collection is required to obtain or retain benefits (OMB Control No. 3060-0816).
Small Business Burden Relief Input
The FCC is specifically asking for comments on how to reduce the Form 477 paperwork burden for small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees. You can submit comments about small‑business relief through the public comment process by January 2, 2026.
Public Broadband Availability Data
The FCC publishes broadband availability and mobile voice availability data that consumers, federal and state agencies, and analysts can use to determine broadband service availability by provider, technology, and speed. The Form 477 data support the Commission's work under section 706 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and are released to the public for use in evaluating broadband availability and adoption.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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Previous: 2025-21802 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget for Review and Approval; Renewable Energy on the Outer Continental Shelf and Alternate Uses of Existing Facilities on the Outer Continental Shelf
The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management wants to update and renew its paperwork rules for companies working on renewable energy and reusing old facilities out on the ocean shelf. This affects businesses involved in offshore wind, solar, and other clean energy projects, asking them to provide info in a clearer, easier way. Comments on these changes are open until January 2, 2026, helping keep the process smooth and efficient without extra costs.
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The FCC is checking in to make sure its paperwork isn’t too tricky or time-consuming for businesses, especially small ones. They’re asking for your thoughts on how to keep forms clear and useful while cutting down hassle. If you want to share your ideas, you’ve got until February 2, 2026, so don’t miss out!