FCC requests comments on extending three radio station recordkeeping rules
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
This notice asks the public to comment on whether the FCC should extend three existing paperwork requirements for certain marine and cable-related radio rules. It does not change the rules yet, but it keeps the FCC’s approval process moving under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The main practical impact is on businesses, local governments, and nonprofits that operate on-board station equipment, private coast or marine utility stations, or cable operators involved in certification disputes. They may need to keep records, maintain written agreements, or file/answer reconsideration petitions if these collections stay approved. Comments are due by June 29, 2026.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- FCC seeks extension of three existing information collections, not new rules.
- On-board station operators must keep equipment records showing vessel identity, unit counts and types, and equipment changes.
- Private coast and marine utility station licensees must keep written agreements for ship stations and make them available for inspection; cable parties may need to file or answer reconsideration petitions and related information requests.
Obligations
What this law requires
Licensees of on-board stations must keep equipment records showing the ship name and identification of the on-board station, the number and type of repeater and mobile units used on board the vessel, and the dates equipment is added to or removed from the station.
Licensees of on-board stations must keep equipment records showing the ship name and identification of the on-board station, the number and type of repeater and mobile units used on board, and the date equipment is added to or removed from the station.
Licensees of private coast stations or marine utility stations on shore that install ship radio stations on board U.S. commercial transport vessels must enter into a written agreement verifying the licensee’s sole right of control over the ship stations, the vessel operators’ duty to follow the licensee’s orders and instructions, and the licensee’s sufficient control to carry out its responsibilities under the ship station license.
Licensees of a private coast station or marine utility station that installs ship radio stations on board U.S. commercial transport vessels must enter into a written agreement confirming the licensee’s sole right of control over the ship stations and that vessel operators will use the ship stations only under the coast or marine utility station’s orders and instructions.
The licensee must keep a copy of the contract or written agreement with the station records and make it available for inspection by Commission representatives.