FCC Pushes Paperwork Reforms for Small Businesses' Relief
Published Date: 3/17/2026
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 due by April 16, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to help shape the process!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.
A-CAM Carriers: One-Time Downward Adjustment Window
Revised A-CAM I and A-CAM II carriers may seek a one-time downward adjustment to their funded location totals by citing the Broadband Serviceable Location Fabric version used for BDC as of June 30, 2026; carriers must request the adjustment in WC Docket No. 10-90 and WCB may reduce associated funding when locations are lowered.
RDOF 'Unreasonable to Serve' Data Submission Process
After WCB announces revised RDOF location totals in 2027, RDOF carriers will have six months to submit requests to remove locations they claim are unreasonable to serve. Requests must identify Fabric Location IDs, give reasons, and include evidence; WCB may request more information and may deny claims if additional information is not provided.
Estimated Paperwork Burden and Respondent Types
The FCC estimates 115 respondents and 115 responses, with an estimated 5–40 hours per response and a total annual burden of 4,075 hours; respondents include for-profit businesses, not-for-profits, individuals or households, and state, local, or tribal governments. The obligation to respond is voluntary and the FCC lists total annual cost as 'No Cost.'
Small Business Paperwork Relief Request
The FCC is asking the public—especially small businesses with fewer than 25 employees—to comment on how to reduce paperwork burdens under the Paperwork Reduction Act and the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act. Comments are due by April 16, 2026.
ELAP Information Collection Eliminated
The FCC proposes to eliminate information collection requirements related to the Eligible Locations Adjustment Process (ELAP) because ELAP has ended. This removes a reporting obligation that applied to certain Connect America Fund Phase II Auction support recipients.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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