FCC Bosses Get Claim-Settling Superpowers: Faster Tort Payouts Ahead
Published Date: 2/26/2026
Rule
Summary
The FCC just boosted the power of its Chairman and Managing Director to settle certain claims without needing a full Commission vote. Now, they can handle Federal Tort Claims up to $25,000 and Military Personnel claims up to $40,000, matching federal law limits. These changes take effect on February 26, 2026, making claim settlements faster and more efficient—no extra costs or paperwork for small businesses.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
FTCA Settlement Authority Raised to $25,000
The FCC now allows the Chairman to settle Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) claims against the agency when damages do not exceed $25,000. This change takes effect February 26, 2026 and raises the Chairman's previous $5,000 settlement limit to $25,000, matching the FTCA statutory limit.
Managing Director Can Settle MPCECA Claims up to $40,000
The FCC delegates authority to the Managing Director, with General Counsel concurrence, to settle Military Personnel and Civilian Employees' Claims Act (MPCECA) claims up to $40,000. This change is effective February 26, 2026 and aligns the Managing Director's delegation with the MPCECA statutory limit.
No New Paperwork Burden for Small Businesses
The FCC states the amended rules do not create new or modified information collection requirements under the Paperwork Reduction Act, and therefore do not create new information collection burdens for small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees. This determination is part of the rule adopting order released February 5, 2026.
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Key Dates
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