FCC Asks Public to Review Paperwork Burden
Published Date: 5/29/2026
Notice
Summary
The FCC is asking the public and agencies to help reduce paperwork by reviewing their information collection process. They want to know if the info they collect is useful, clear, and not too much work—especially for small businesses. You’ve got until July 28, 2026, to share your thoughts and help make things easier and smarter!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
FCC Station Recordkeeping Burden
If you hold a broadcast or CARS license, you must keep specific station records (authorization, correspondence, maintenance logs, tower-light entries, etc.) and retain them for at least 2 years. The FCC estimates 14,052 respondents, 19,077 responses, a total annual burden of 12,751 hours, and a total annual cost of $6,030,000 under OMB Control Number 3060-0249.
Compliance Required to Keep Licenses
Responding to these information collection requirements is mandatory to obtain or retain the benefit of a license; failure to comply could affect your authorization. The FCC explicitly states the obligation to respond is required to obtain or retain benefits under Section 154(i) of the Communications Act.
Small Business Paperwork Relief Opportunity
The FCC is asking for public comments on ways to reduce paperwork burdens and to further reduce information collection burdens on small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees. You can submit written comments by July 28, 2026 to suggest ways to shorten forms, use automated collection, or otherwise reduce time and cost for small entities.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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