FCC Asks: Hate Filling Out License Forms? Tell Us by April!
Published Date: 2/10/2026
Notice
Summary
The FCC is checking in on some paperwork rules that businesses and nonprofits follow to keep their licenses. They want your thoughts on how to make these forms easier and less time-consuming, especially for small businesses. You’ve got until April 13, 2026, to share your ideas—so don’t miss out on shaping the process and possibly saving time and money!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
One-Year Construction Deadline or License Forfeiture
If you hold a Cable Television Relay Service (CARS) station license, you must notify the FCC in writing when the station commences operation on or before the last day of the authorized one-year construction period, or the station license will be automatically forfeited. This requirement is from 47 CFR 78.27(b)(1).
Opportunity to Comment on Paperwork Burden
If you are a small business or nonprofit affected by FCC paperwork, you can submit comments on how to reduce that paperwork by April 13, 2026. The FCC specifically asks for ideas to minimize burden on small businesses with fewer than 25 employees and estimates the collection (OMB Control Number 3060-0346) involves 4 respondents, 10 minutes per response, and a total annual burden of 1 hour.
30-Day Extension Request Rule for Construction
If a CARS licensee needs more time to complete construction, you must request an extension of time 30 days before the one-year construction period expires, per 47 CFR 78.27(b)(2). Exceptions to the 30-day advance filing requirement may be granted where unanticipated delays occur.
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