FCC Revises Connected Care Program Deadline

The FCC’s Wireline Competition Bureau changed the completion date for all broadband telehealth projects under the Connected Care Program to December 31, 2025. This revises the previous deadline set by the Bureau which permitted project deadlines three years from a project’s inception. The Bureau stated individual programs have reported continued impact from the COVID-19 pandemic on their operations, and that the new deadline will help streamline administrative efficiency.

FCC Plans Vote on Undersea Cable Rules

At the upcoming November 21st Open Meeting, the FCC will vote on whether to engage in a “major comprehensive review” of the submarine cable rules, which have not been substantively reviewed since 2001.The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposes to codify the FCC’s jurisdiction to provide regulatory guidance, as well as institute a three-year periodic review process for all submarine cable landing licenses. The NPRM also seeks comment on national security requirements, such as review of ownership, control, and use of a cable system. 

FCC Plans to Consider Caller ID Authentication Order

The FCC will consider a Report and Order at its November 21st Open Meeting which would bolster the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework by clearly delineating the involvement of third parties in the authentication process. Specifically, the Report and Order looks to clarify the definition of “third-party authentication” as well as nondelegable “attestation-level” decisions for authentication made by providers. Additionally, the FCC proposes enhanced recordkeeping and reporting obligations on providers. 

FCC Enters Privacy MOU with CPPA

The California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA) announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau to aid California in enforcing its state laws and regulations. Unlike previous MOU’s entered with state attorneys generals, this partnership will focus on protecting consumer privacy rights in California, as well as informing businesses on their obligations to their customers. The FCC’s Privacy and Data Protection Task Force will also play a role in providing support for rulemaking, enforcement, and education campaigns within the state. 

Casey Lide, Thomas B. Magee, Tracy P. Marshall, Sean A. Stokes, and Wesley K. Wright contributed to this article.