FCC Seeks OMB Nod for Simpler Form Filings Amid Bureaucratic Shuffle
Published Date: 3/30/2026
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’re reviewing a form that needs approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and want comments by April 29, 2026. This effort aims to cut down hassle without costing extra money or time.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Territories Funding for Broadband and Voice
For Stage 2 support, service providers competed for up to $504.7 million for Puerto Rico and up to $186.5 million for the U.S. Virgin Islands, payable over 10 years, to offer fixed voice and broadband services to all locations in the Territories. The information collection supports the competitive proposal process and ongoing authorizations for winning bidders.
Small Businesses Asked to Comment
The FCC specifically asks small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees to tell the agency how to reduce paperwork burdens under this information collection. If you run a small business, you can submit comments by April 29, 2026 to suggest ways to cut time or hassle.
Application Requirement Removed
The FCC determined that 47 CFR 54.1505 is outdated and removes that application requirement, keeping only limited ongoing requirements such as annual maintenance of letters of credit (47 CFR 54.804(c), 54.1508) and a disaster preparation and response plan (Sec. 54.1515). This change follows the Commission's September 30, 2025 proceeding.
Time Burden and No Monetary Cost
The information collection (OMB Control Number 3060-1274) lists 3 respondents and 6 responses, with an estimated 2–10 hours per response and a total annual burden of 36 hours. The notice also states a total annual monetary cost of "No Cost."
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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