US Regulatory Digest

2026-03-12

4
High
5
Medium
31
Low

Overview

The regulatory landscape is dominated by significant spectrum policy changes, with the FCC opening 6 GHz for higher-power unlicensed use through geofencing, while NTIA examines potential GPS interference from satellite direct-to-device services. NTIA is also redirecting BEAD broadband funding following cost reforms, which could reshape rural deployment strategies. Routine administrative items prevail across all regulators, with Ofcom publishing various Online Safety Act implementation reports.

High Priority

High FCC Spectrum & Licensing

Unlicensed Use of the 6 GHz Band; Expanding Flexible Use in Mid-Band Spectrum Between 3.7 and 24 GHz

FCC adopts rules for unlicensed geofenced devices in 6 GHz band at higher power levels using geofencing to avoid interference with licensed microwave.

Impact: Opens significant new spectrum for Wi-Fi 6E/7 deployments, potentially reducing reliance on cellular for indoor coverage and creating new competitive dynamics for operators with licensed spectrum investments.
High NTIA Broadband & Infrastructure

NTIA Listening Session on the Use of BEAD Funds Saved Through the Trump Administration's Benefit of the Bargain Reforms

NTIA seeks input on using saved BEAD program funds after cost reduction reforms, potentially redirecting billions in broadband funding.

Impact: Could significantly alter broadband funding allocations and project economics for carriers participating in BEAD, affecting rural deployment strategies and business cases.
High NTIA Satellite & Space

Impact of L-Band MSS 'Direct-to-Device' Operations on GPS

NTIA seeks comment on potential GPS interference from satellite direct-to-device operations in L-band spectrum adjacent to GPS frequencies.

Impact: Could restrict or delay satellite-to-cellular service rollouts from operators like SpaceX/T-Mobile and AST SpaceMobile, affecting competitive positioning in rural coverage.

Spectrum & Licensing

FCC adopts rules for unlicensed geofenced devices in 6 GHz band at higher power levels using geofencing to avoid interference with licensed microwave.
NTIA to announce spectrum policy at September symposium.

Broadband & Infrastructure

NTIA seeks input on using saved BEAD program funds after cost reduction reforms, potentially redirecting billions in broadband funding.
Tribal broadband program information collection requirements.
NTIA hosts regional roundtables on sustainability of BEAD and other broadband grant programs.
Digital equity program information collection notice.
NTIA-Census project for local internet adoption estimates.

Consumer Protection

FCC-HUD data match for Lifeline/ACP eligibility verification.
Puerto Rico Lifeline/ACP eligibility data match.
Wisconsin Lifeline/ACP eligibility data match.
Medicaid Lifeline/ACP eligibility data match.

Broadcasting & Media

FCC seeks input on sports media marketplace changes affecting broadcasters and consumers.
Radio station community of license changes.
FCC proposes limits on NCE FM translator applications.

Online Safety & Content

Discussion on school device use and screen time.

Wireless & Mobile

NTIA convenes session on wireless supply chain innovation fund and AI-enabled radio access networks.
NTIA convenes session on Open RAN certification principles for Global Coalition on Telecommunications.

Satellite & Space

Space launch frequency coordination portal information collection.
Space launch coordination portal PRA notice.
NTIA seeks comment on potential GPS interference from satellite direct-to-device operations in L-band spectrum adjacent to GPS frequencies.
NTIA seeks comment on potential GPS interference from satellite direct-to-device operations in L-band spectrum adjacent to GPS frequencies.

Regulatory Process

Routine FCC paperwork review notice.
FCC information collection submission to OMB.
FCC routine paperwork burden review.
FCC information collection comment request.
CSRIC IX final meeting scheduled March 24.
FCC delegated authority information collection review.
FCC OMB information collection submission.
FCC modifies internal claims settlement authority.
FCC delegated paperwork review notice.
FCC information collection comment period.
FCC paperwork burden review.
FCC information collection OMB submission.
Internet usage survey information collection.
Data center growth and security listening session.
Internet use survey PRA submission.
FirstNet Authority board meeting notice.
Extension of application window for advisory committee.
NTIA seeks input on ethical guidelines for research using online data.
NTIA seeks advisory committee members for innovation fund.
Generated by regulatory-scraper on 2026-03-12