FCC Boosts 6 GHz Power and Clears Foreign Ownership Rules
Published Date: 1/27/2026
Notice
Summary
On January 29, 2026, the FCC will hold a public meeting to discuss exciting updates like letting new outdoor 6 GHz devices use more power, making foreign ownership rules clearer, and boosting transparency about foreign control in U.S. networks. These changes affect tech companies, network operators, and the public by improving wireless use and security. The meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. and you can watch it live online—no appointment needed!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Allow Higher-Power 6 GHz Devices
The FCC will consider a Fourth Report and Order in ET Docket No. 18-295 to permit a new class of unlicensed 6 GHz devices called geofenced variable power (GVP) devices to operate outdoors at higher power. The Commission will also consider allowing increased power for certain 6 GHz operations controlled by automated frequency coordination systems and extending low-power indoor operations to cruise ships.
Clarify Foreign Ownership Rules
In GN Docket No. 25-149 the FCC will consider a Report and Order to adopt clarifications to the Commission's foreign ownership rules and practices for foreign investment in common carrier wireless, aeronautical radio, and broadcast licensees. The stated goal is to reduce unnecessary burdens on industry while continuing to protect the public interest, including national security and law enforcement.
Seek Enhancements to Relay Services
The FCC will consider a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in CG Docket Nos. 03-123, 10-51, and 12-38 to seek comment on enhancements for Internet Protocol (IP) Relay and Video Relay Services (VRS), administrative reforms to streamline the Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) program, updating or eliminating obsolete rules, and closing outdated dockets. These items target services for individuals with hearing and speech disabilities.
New Foreign-Adversary Disclosure Rules
In GN Docket No. 25-166 the FCC will consider a Report and Order to adopt new attestation and disclosure requirements for holders of Commission-granted licenses, leases, authorizations, permits, grants, and other approvals to enhance public transparency over Foreign Adversary Control of U.S. communications network operators. The change would require those holders to provide attestations and disclosures about foreign adversary control.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20591, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission Under Delegated Authority
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for TV stations using Next Gen TV technology to make sure they're not too tricky or time-consuming. Businesses, governments, and nonprofits involved with local TV broadcasts might need to share info, but the FCC wants to keep it simple and clear. If you have thoughts, speak up by December 7, 2026, so the FCC can keep things smooth and fair without extra costs or hassle.
2026-20590, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking for your thoughts on how it collects info about radiofrequency safety rules. This affects individuals, businesses, and governments who must report or share info sometimes. They want to make the process easier and clearer, especially for small businesses, and need your comments by December 7, 2026.
2026-20676, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission Under Delegated Authority
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for cable companies and local governments to make sure the info they collect is useful and not too much work. They want your thoughts on how to make the process easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. If you want to share your ideas, send them in by December 7, 2026—this helps keep things fair and smooth for everyone involved.
2026-20607, Information Collections 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 review and comment on their paperwork plans to make things easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want feedback by November 9, 2026, to help reduce the time and hassle of filling out forms. This is part of a government effort to cut down on unnecessary paperwork and save everyone time and money.
2026-20681, 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 comment on a paperwork update aimed at making things easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want your thoughts by November 9, 2026, to help reduce the hassle and keep everything running smoothly. This is part of a government effort to cut down on unnecessary forms and save time and money.
2026-20486, Information Collections Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking the public and businesses to review and comment on some paperwork they collect to make sure it’s useful and not too much of a hassle. This review affects companies, nonprofits, and government groups, especially small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. Comments are due by December 7, 2026, and the FCC aims to keep things clear, quick, and fair without costing too much time or money.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-01555, Emergencies and the National Environmental Policy Act Guidance
The Council on Environmental Quality just dropped fresh guidance to help federal agencies follow environmental rules during emergencies like wildfires or disease outbreaks. This update replaces old advice and offers new ways to speed up reviews without skipping important steps. Agencies affected can now act faster while still protecting the environment, starting January 21, 2026, with no extra costs expected.
Next: 2026-01557, Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission Under Delegated Authority
The FCC is checking in on some paperwork rules that affect about 200 businesses, mostly to make sure the info they collect is useful and not too much work. They want your thoughts by March 30, 2026, especially on how to make things easier for small businesses. This review won’t cost extra money but aims to keep things clear and fair for everyone involved.