The Federal Communications Commission has adopted new rules requiring greater transparency from licensees and applicants whose operations may be influenced by foreign adversaries to strengthen protections for U.S. communications networks.
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What Do the New FCC Rules Require?
The commission said Thursday that a report and order, or R&O, adopted Jan. 29 will require certain FCC license, permit and authorization holders to certify whether they are owned, controlled or directed by a foreign adversary. Covered authorizations will be assigned to one of three reporting schedules based on national security risk, reporting burden and other factors.
What Disclosures Must Be Made?
Under the new rules, entities that certify foreign adversary control must provide information on ownership and voting interests, identify the countries involved and explain the nature of that control. The R&O creates a centralized public reporting system with filing deadlines of 60 days after launch, or 120 days for small entities, and outlines enforcement measures for noncompliance with the transparency requirements.
How Will the Rules Be Implemented & Enforced?
The FCC will create a centralized reporting system to make submitted information more accessible to the public. Filings will be due within 60 days of a public notice announcing the launch of the reporting system, with small entities granted 120 days. The order establishes an enforcement framework for violations of the new transparency rules.
FCC’s Broader Effort to Counter Foreign Threats
The new rule is the latest of FCC’s ongoing effort to protect the nation’s communications infrastructure from foreign threats. In 2025, the commission established the Council for National Security, strengthened warnings against foreign-linked technologies, tightened restrictions on the importation and sale of high-risk equipment, and expanded its Covered List to include unmanned aircraft systems and components produced in other countries.
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