FCC to Block Imports of Once-Allowed Risky Gear
Published Date: 7/6/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting July 16, 2026, the FCC is banning the import and sale of certain communications gear that was once allowed but now poses security risks. This affects companies dealing with equipment added to the risky list in 2024 or earlier, stopping them from bringing in or marketing these products. The move helps protect U.S. safety without canceling past approvals, but it means businesses must adjust quickly to avoid losses.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Ban on Importing/Selling Older Covered Gear
Starting July 16, 2026, the FCC bans the importation and marketing of communications equipment that was added to the Covered List in 2024 or earlier and that received FCC equipment authorization before the Commission's 2022 rules. Companies that import or sell those previously authorized devices must stop importing or marketing them as of that date or face enforcement actions.
You Can Keep Using Your Device
If you already legally bought a covered device that had FCC equipment authorization, you may continue to use and operate that device even after July 16, 2026. The FCC's prohibition stops new imports and marketing but does not revoke past authorizations or force existing users to stop using their devices.
Temporary Exception for Certain Surveillance Gear
Equipment added to the Covered List on March 12, 2021 that is covered only when used for physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure is temporarily exempt from the importation and marketing ban for that use. That suspension remains in place until the Commission adopts a definition and guidance for the statutory term "critical infrastructure," at which point the ban will apply for that purpose.
Rule Applies Only to 2024-or-Earlier Listings
The FCC made clear the importation and marketing prohibition applies only to equipment added to the Covered List in 2024 or earlier and does not apply to equipment added to the Covered List after 2024. Firms dealing with equipment added after 2024 are not covered by this specific ban.
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
2026-13593 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission Under Delegated Authority
The FCC is checking in on some paperwork rules to make sure they’re useful and not too tricky, especially for small businesses. They want your thoughts on how to make these forms easier and better, with a deadline to share ideas by September 4, 2026. This review affects about 200 businesses and nonprofits, each spending around 2 hours on these forms.
2026-13601 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is checking in to make sure its paperwork rules are clear and not too tough on businesses, nonprofits, and local governments. They want your thoughts on how to keep info collection useful but easy, especially for small businesses. You’ve got until September 4, 2026, to share your ideas—so don’t miss out on shaping the future of FCC forms!
2026-13213 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for businesses and governments managing cybersecurity and supply chain risks. They want your thoughts on how to make these forms easier and clearer, especially for small businesses. If you’re involved, get your comments in by August 31, 2026, to help shape the process without adding extra costs or hassle.
2026-13220 — Information Collections 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’re reviewing some info collection forms and want comments by July 31, 2026. This effort aims to cut down hassle, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees, without costing extra money or time.
2026-13155 — Resilient Networks; Concerning Disruptions to Communications
The FCC is making it easier and faster for communication providers to report network problems during disasters. They’re cutting out extra paperwork, letting some providers skip reports, and adding new rules for public safety networks to keep everyone connected when it counts. These changes start June 30, 2026, helping emergency teams get better info without stressing out providers.
2026-13163 — Notification of Cancelled Adjustment of Civil Monetary Penalties for Inflation
Good news for 2026! The Federal Communications Commission is keeping civil penalty amounts the same—no inflation increases this year. If you deal with FCC rules, your fines won’t get bigger starting June 17, 2026, so no surprise hikes in your wallet.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-13517 — Glyphosate From China; Institution of Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Investigations and Scheduling of Preliminary Phase Investigations
The U.S. is launching investigations to see if cheap glyphosate from China is hurting American businesses by being sold unfairly or getting government help. Monsanto and its subsidiary asked for this on June 30, 2026. The government will decide by August 14, 2026, if extra taxes should be added to these imports to protect U.S. companies.
Next: 2026-13519 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for Office of Management and Budget Review; Comment Request; Premarket Approval of Medical Devices
The FDA is asking for public feedback on their paperwork rules for approving the most important and risky medical devices, like life-support machines. This review helps keep devices safe and effective before they hit the market. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until August 5, 2026, to share them—no cost changes, just a check-in on the info they collect.