FCC Reopens Lower C-Band Docket for Updated Petitions and Public Input
Published Date: 4/15/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC is reopening the conversation about rules for the lower C-band airwaves (3.7 to 4.2 GHz) to make sure everything works smoothly with new proposals for the upper C-band. This affects companies using these airwaves for wireless services, and they have until May 5, 2026, to share their thoughts. The goal? A clear, fair plan that could impact how these valuable airwaves are used and paid for.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 1 mixed.
Possible 4 W Power Limit for Mobile Devices
The FCC is seeking comment on a proposal to adopt a 4 Watt Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) limit for mobile devices across the Lower C-band (3.7–3.98 GHz) and Upper C-band (3.98–4.2 GHz). If adopted, this technical limit would apply to mobile devices operating in those bands and could affect companies that design, manufacture, or operate such devices.
Limits on Spurious Emissions into 4.2–4.4 GHz
The Bureau seeks comment on setting an appropriate limit on spurious emissions from Lower C-band operations into the 4.2–4.4 GHz band. This would apply to entities operating in the 3.7–3.98 GHz band and relate to protecting radio altimeter operations in 4.2–4.4 GHz.
Harmonize C-band Power and OOBE Rules
The Commission is seeking comment on aligning technical rules—such as power levels and out-of-band emissions (OOBE) limits—across the entire C-band (3.7–4.2 GHz) to create a harmonized wireless operational environment. The Bureau asks whether Lower C-band rules should be changed to match proposed Upper C-band requirements.
Possible New Paperwork or Reporting Burdens
The Public Notice states it "may contain proposed new or modified information collections" under the Paperwork Reduction Act and invites public and OMB comment. If new information collections are adopted, affected parties would face new or changed reporting or recordkeeping obligations.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-09822 — Promoting the Integrity and Security of Telecommunications Certification Bodies, Measurement Facilities, and the Equipment Authorization Program
The FCC is making sure that the labs and companies testing telecom devices play by the rules and keep national security tight. They’re speeding up reviews for trusted labs, improving how they check devices after approval, and setting up secret ways to report problems. These changes start June 15, 2026, and affect testing labs, device makers, and publicly traded companies, with no big costs expected.
2026-09821 — Promoting the Integrity and Security of Telecommunications Certification Bodies, Measurement Facilities, and the Equipment Authorization Program
The FCC wants to stop recognizing test labs and certification bodies in places that don’t have trade agreements with the U.S. They’re also looking to upgrade how they use data and protect important tech secrets and national security. If you’re involved in telecom testing or certification, get ready for changes and share your thoughts by mid-June 2026!
2026-09837 — Sunshine Act Meeting; Open Commission Meeting Wednesday, May 20, 2026
On May 20, 2026, the FCC will hold an open meeting to tackle big issues like stopping illegal robocalls, making broadband data easier to manage, and boosting network safety during emergencies. These changes will affect phone companies, internet providers, and anyone who relies on safe, reliable communication. The meeting starts at 10:30 a.m., and the public can watch live online—no appointment needed!
2026-09819 — Accessible Emergency Information, and Apparatus Requirements for Emergency Information and Video Description: Implementation of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010
The FCC wants to make sure emergency info on TV is easy to hear and read for everyone, especially during non-news shows. They’re updating rules so if emergency text crawls match the visual alerts, they just need to be read aloud too. Video providers and distributors should get ready to follow these changes, with feedback due by June 15, 2026—no big costs expected, just clearer emergency info for all!
2026-09820 — Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
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 reduce the burden especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. Comments are due by June 15, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to help shape simpler rules without any extra costs or penalties.
2026-09838 — Auction of FM Broadcast Construction Permits Scheduled for February 2, 2027; Comment Sought on Competitive Bidding Procedures for Auction 114
The FCC is gearing up for Auction 114 on February 2, 2027, where folks can bid on permits to build new FM radio stations. They want your thoughts on how the bidding should work and the starting prices, with comments due by June 9, 2026. This is a big chance for broadcasters to grab new spots on the dial and for the FCC to make sure the auction is fair and fun!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-07230 — Petition for Rulemaking-Amendments to Regulations Governing Ex Parte Communications
The Surface Transportation Board is thinking about changing the rules on secret talks during cases, called ex parte communications. These changes could affect railroads, customers, and anyone involved in these cases by making the process clearer and fairer. People have until May 29, 2026, to share their thoughts, and these updates might save time and money by cutting down confusing back-and-forth.
Next: 2026-07292 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Cook Inlet; Proposed 2026 Harvest Specifications for Salmon
The National Marine Fisheries Service is proposing new salmon fishing limits for Cook Inlet in 2026 to keep salmon populations healthy and fishing fair. This affects fishermen and communities relying on these waters, with a chance to share your thoughts by April 30, 2026. The goal? Smart rules that protect salmon while supporting local fishing jobs and traditions.