FCC Checks Box on Routine Paperwork Review Again
Published Date: 1/22/2026
Notice
Summary
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules to make sure they’re not too tricky or time-consuming. They want your thoughts on how to keep collecting info useful but easy, especially for small businesses. If you have ideas or concerns, speak up by March 23, 2026, so the FCC can keep things smooth and fair for everyone involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Online FOIA Form Time Burden
If you submit a Freedom of Information Act or Privacy Act request to the FCC using the online form, the FCC estimates each response takes 0.08 hours. The form is voluntary and collects your contact information and a detailed description of the records you want.
Annual FOIA Collection Burden and Cost
The FCC estimates this FOIA/Privacy Act information collection covers 1,510 respondents and imposes a total annual burden of 121 hours and total annual cost of $7,300. The collection is an extension of a currently approved information collection (OMB Control Number 3060-1309).
Small Business Burden Reduction Focus
The FCC specifically asks for ways to further reduce the information collection burden on small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees. Small businesses may submit comments by March 23, 2026 to suggest ways to make the process easier or less costly.
What the FOIA Form Collects
The FCC's online FOIA/Privacy Act form collects the requester's contact information, a reasonable description of the records sought, and, if applicable, fee category, fee waiver, and expedited processing information. A proper FOIA request must reasonably describe the records so FCC staff can locate them.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-10296 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission Under Delegated Authority
The FCC is asking the public and businesses to share their thoughts on how it collects information to make sure it’s useful and not too much work. They want to cut down on paperwork, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. If you want to comment, you’ve got until July 21, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to help shape smarter rules!
2026-10299 — Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and other agencies to share their thoughts on a paperwork update that aims to make things easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want to reduce the hassle of filling out forms and need approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to keep collecting this info. Comments are open until June 22, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-10038 — Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee; Announcement of Meeting
The FCC is holding a remote meeting on June 10, 2026, for its Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee. This group helps improve communication tech and fights robocalls, making things easier and safer for everyone. The public can join, ask questions, and share ideas—no cost to participate!
2026-10011 — Promoting Fair and Open Competitive Bidding in the E-Rate Program; Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support Mechanism
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2026-09991 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking the public and agencies to share their thoughts on how it collects information to make sure it’s useful and not too much work. They want to cut down on paperwork, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. If you want to comment, you’ve got until July 20, 2026, so don’t miss out!
2026-10008 — Broadcast Station Rule Updates
The FCC is updating radio and TV broadcast rules to clear up confusion and ditch old, outdated steps. These changes help stations and applicants by making the process smoother and easier to understand. The new rules kick in on June 18, 2026, with no big costs expected for small broadcasters.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-01103 — 60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
The U.S. Department of State wants your feedback on updating the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which helps Americans abroad stay safe by sharing travel info. If you’re a U.S. citizen or non-citizen national who travels, this affects you! They’re asking for comments by March 23, 2026, and it won’t cost you anything to participate—just about 5 minutes to update your info.
Next: 2026-01105 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is checking in on some paperwork rules for businesses, nonprofits, and local governments involved with the Uniendo a Puerto Rico and Connect USVI funds. They want your thoughts on how to make these forms easier and less time-consuming, especially for small businesses. If you have ideas, send them in by March 23, 2026—this could save folks hours and maybe some headaches!