US Code
Title 47— TELECOMMUNICATIONS

§ 16. Washington-Alaska Military Cable and Telegraph System; money transfers; portion of receipts withheld - On and after , such amount of money as may...

§ 17. Repealed. , , -

CHAPTER 2— SUBMARINE CABLES

§ 21. Submarine cables; willful injury to; punishment - Any person who shall willfully and wrongfully break or injure,...

§ 22. Negligent injury to submarine cables; punishment - Any person who by culpable negligence shall break or injure...

§ 23. Injury to submarine cables in efforts to save life excepted - The provisions of sections 21 and 22 of this title...

§ 24. Vessels laying cables; signals; avoidance of buoys - The master of any vessel which, while engaged in laying...

§ 25. Fishing vessels; duty to keep nets from cables - The master of any fishing vessel who shall not keep...

§ 26. Duties of commanders of warships - For the purpose of carrying into effect the convention described...

§ 27. Offending vessels to show nationality - Any person having the custody of the papers necessary for...

§ 28. Penalties not to bar suits for damages - The penalties provided in this chapter for the breaking or...

§ 29. Master of offending vessel punishable - When an offense against this chapter shall have been committed...

§ 30. Definitions - Unless the context of this chapter otherwise requires, the term...

§ 31. Summary trials - The provisions of sections 391–396 of title 33 shall extend...

§ 32. Application - The provisions of this chapter shall be held to apply...

§ 33. Jurisdiction and venue of actions and offenses - The district courts of the United States shall have jurisdiction...

§ 34. Licenses for landing or operating cables connecting United States with foreign country; necessity for - No person shall land or operate in the United States...

§ 35. Withholding or revoking of licenses by President; terms and conditions of licenses - The President may withhold or revoke such license when he...

§ 36. Preventing landing or operating of cables; injunction - The President is empowered to prevent the landing of any...

§ 37. Violations; punishment - Whoever knowingly commits, instigates, or assists in any act forbidden...

§ 38. “United States” defined - The term “United States” as used in sections 34 to...

§ 39. Amendment, modification, etc., of rights granted - No right shall accrue to any government, person, or corporation...

CHAPTER 3— RADIOTELEGRAPHS

§§ 51 to 63. Repealed. , -

CHAPTER 4— RADIO ACT OF 1927

§§ 81 to 83. Repealed. , -

§§ 83a to 83e. Omitted -

§ 84. Repealed. , -

§§ 84a, 84b. Repealed. , , -

§§ 85 to 119. Repealed. , -

§§ 120, 121. Omitted -

CHAPTER 5— WIRE OR RADIO COMMUNICATION

SUBCHAPTER I— GENERAL PROVISIONS

§ 151. Purposes of chapter; Federal Communications Commission created - For the purpose of regulating interstate and foreign commerce in...

§ 152. Application of chapter - (a) The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all...

§ 153. Definitions - (1) Advanced communications servicesThe term “advanced communications services” means—(A) interconnected...

§ 154. Federal Communications Commission - (a) Number of commissioners; appointmentThe Federal Communications Commission (in this...

§ 155. Commission - (a) Chairman; duties; vacancyThe member of the Commission designated by...

§ 155a. Authority of Chief Information Officer - (a) In generalThe Commission shall ensure that the Chief Information...

§ 156. Authorization of appropriations - (a) AuthorizationThere are authorized to be appropriated to the Commission...

§ 157. New technologies and services - (a) It shall be the policy of the United States...

§ 158. Application fees - (a) General authority; establishment of scheduleThe Commission shall assess and...

§ 159. Regulatory fees - (a) General authorityThe Commission shall assess and collect regulatory fees...

§ 159a. Provisions applicable to application and regulatory fees - (a) Judicial review prohibitedAny adjustment or amendment to a schedule...

§ 160. Competition in provision of telecommunications service - (a) Regulatory flexibilityNotwithstanding section 332(c)(1)(A) of this title, the Commission...

§ 161. Regulatory reform - (a) Biennial review of regulationsIn every even-numbered year (beginning with...

§ 162. Additional research authorities of the FCC - (1) undertake research and development work in connection with any...

§ 163. Communications marketplace report - (a) In generalIn the last quarter of every even-numbered year,...

SUBCHAPTER II— COMMON CARRIERS

Part I— Common Carrier Regulation

§ 201. Service and charges - (a) It shall be the duty of every common carrier...

§ 202. Discriminations and preferences - (a) Charges, services, etc.It shall be unlawful for any common...

§ 203. Schedules of charges - (a) Filing; public displayEvery common carrier, except connecting carriers, shall,...

§ 204. Hearings on new charges; suspension pending hearing; refunds; duration of hearing; appeal of order concluding hearing - (a)(1) Whenever there is filed with the Commission any new...

§ 205. Commission authorized to prescribe just and reasonable charges; penalties for violations - (a) Whenever, after full opportunity for hearing, upon a complaint...

§ 206. Carriers’ liability for damages - In case any common carrier shall do, or cause or...

§ 207. Recovery of damages - Any person claiming to be damaged by any common carrier...

§ 208. Complaints to Commission; investigations; duration of investigation; appeal of order concluding investigation - (a) Any person, any body politic, or municipal organization, or...

§ 209. Orders for payment of money - If, after hearing on a complaint, the Commission shall determine...

§ 210. Franks and passes; free service to governmental agencies in connection with national defense - (a) Nothing in this chapter or in any other provision...

§ 211. Contracts of carriers; filing with Commission - (a) Every carrier subject to this chapter shall file with...

§ 212. Interlocking directorates; officials dealing in securities - It shall be unlawful for any person to hold the...

§ 213. Valuation of property of carrier - (a) HearingThe Commission may from time to time, as may...

§ 214. Extension of lines or discontinuance of service; certificate of public convenience and necessity - (a) Exceptions; temporary or emergency service or discontinuance of service;...

§ 215. Examination of transactions relating to furnishing of services, equipment, etc.; reports to Congress - (a) Access to records and documentsThe Commission shall examine into...

§ 216. Receivers and trustees; application of chapter - The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all receivers...

§ 217. Agents’ acts and omissions; liability of carrier - In construing and enforcing the provisions of this chapter, the...

§ 218. Management of business; inquiries by Commission - The Commission may inquire into the management of the business...

§ 219. Reports by carriers; contents and requirements generally - (a) The Commission is authorized to require annual reports from...

§ 220. Accounts, records, and memoranda - (a) Forms(1) The Commission may, in its discretion, prescribe the...

§ 221. Consolidations and mergers of telephone companies - (a) Repealed. Pub. L. 104–104, title VI, § 601(b)(2), Feb....

§ 222. Privacy of customer information - (a) In generalEvery telecommunications carrier has a duty to protect...

§ 223. Obscene or harassing telephone calls in the District of Columbia or in interstate or foreign communications - (a) Prohibited acts generallyWhoever—(1) in interstate or foreign communications—(A) by...

§ 224. Pole attachments - (a) DefinitionsAs used in this section:(1) The term “utility” means...

§ 225. Telecommunications services for hearing-impaired and speech-impaired individuals - (a) DefinitionsAs used in this section—(1) Common carrier or carrierThe...

§ 226. Telephone operator services - (a) DefinitionsAs used in this section—(1) The term “access code”...

§ 227. Restrictions on use of telephone equipment - (a) DefinitionsAs used in this section—(1) The term “automatic telephone...

§ 227a. Consumer education materials on how to avoid scams that rely upon misleading or inaccurate caller identification information - (1) Development of materialsNot later than 1 year after March...

§ 227b. Call authentication - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) STIR/SHAKEN authentication frameworkThe term “STIR/SHAKEN authentication...

§ 227b–1. Access to number resources - (a) In general(1) Examination of FCC policiesNot later than 180...

§ 227b–2. Provision of evidence of certain robocall violations to Attorney General - (a) In generalIf the Chief of the Enforcement Bureau of...

§ 228. Regulation of carrier offering of pay-per-call services - (a) PurposeIt is the purpose of this section—(1) to put...

§ 229. Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act compliance - (a) In generalThe Commission shall prescribe such rules as are...

§ 230. Protection for private blocking and screening of offensive material - (a) FindingsThe Congress finds the following:(1) The rapidly developing array...

§ 231. Restriction of access by minors to materials commercially distributed by means of World Wide Web that are harmful to minors - (a) Requirement to restrict access(1) Prohibited conductWhoever knowingly and with...

Part II— Development of Competitive Markets

§ 251. Interconnection - (a) General duty of telecommunications carriersEach telecommunications carrier has the...

§ 251a. State authority over fees - (a) Authority(1) In generalNothing in this Act, any amendment made...

§ 252. Procedures for negotiation, arbitration, and approval of agreements - (a) Agreements arrived at through negotiation(1) Voluntary negotiationsUpon receiving a...

§ 253. Removal of barriers to entry - (a) In generalNo State or local statute or regulation, or...

§ 254. Universal service - (a) Procedures to review universal service requirements(1) Federal-State Joint Board...

§ 255. Access by persons with disabilities - (a) DefinitionsAs used in this section—(1) DisabilityThe term “disability” has...

§ 256. Coordination for interconnectivity - (a) PurposeIt is the purpose of this section—(1) to promote...

§ 257. Market entry barriers proceeding - (a) Elimination of barriersWithin 15 months after February 8, 1996,...

§ 258. Illegal changes in subscriber carrier selections - (a) ProhibitionNo telecommunications carrier shall submit or execute a change...

§ 259. Infrastructure sharing - (a) Regulations requiredThe Commission shall prescribe, within one year after...

§ 260. Provision of telemessaging service - (a) Nondiscrimination safeguardsAny local exchange carrier subject to the requirements...

§ 261. Effect on other requirements - (a) Commission regulationsNothing in this part shall be construed to...

§ 262. Ensuring the integrity of voice communications - (a) Registration and compliance by intermediate providersAn intermediate provider that...

Part III— Special Provisions Concerning Bell Operating Companies

§ 271. Bell operating company entry into interLATA services - (a) General limitationNeither a Bell operating company, nor any affiliate...

§ 272. Separate affiliate; safeguards - (a) Separate affiliate required for competitive activities(1) In generalA Bell...

§ 273. Manufacturing by Bell operating companies - (a) AuthorizationA Bell operating company may manufacture and provide telecommunications...

§ 274. Electronic publishing by Bell operating companies - (a) LimitationsNo Bell operating company or any affiliate may engage...

§ 275. Alarm monitoring services - (a) Delayed entry into alarm monitoring(1) ProhibitionNo Bell operating company...

§ 276. Provision of payphone service - (a) Nondiscrimination safeguardsAfter the effective date of the rules prescribed...

SUBCHAPTER III— SPECIAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO RADIO

Part I— General Provisions

§ 301. License for radio communication or transmission of energy - It is the purpose of this chapter, among other things,...

§ 302. Repealed. , -

§ 302a. Devices which interfere with radio reception - (a) RegulationsThe Commission may, consistent with the public interest, convenience,...

§ 303. Powers and duties of Commission - (a) Classify radio stations; (b) Prescribe the nature of the...

§ 303a. Standards for children’s television programming - (a) EstablishmentThe Commission shall, within 30 days after October 18,...

§ 303b. Consideration of children’s television service in broadcast license renewal - (a) After the standards required by section 303a of this...

§ 303c. Television program improvement - (a) Short titleThis section may be cited as the “Television...

§ 304. Waiver by license of claims to particular frequency or of electromagnetic spectrum - No station license shall be granted by the Commission until...

§ 305. Government owned stations - (a) Frequencies; compliance with regulations; stations on vesselsRadio stations belonging...

§ 306. Foreign ships; application of section 301 - shall not apply to any person sending radio communications or...

§ 307. Licenses - (a) GrantThe Commission, if public convenience, interest, or necessity will...

§ 308. Requirements for license - (a) Writing; exceptionsThe Commission may grant construction permits and station...

§ 309. Application for license - (a) Considerations in granting applicationSubject to the provisions of this...

§ 309a. Reports related to spectrum auctions - (a) Omitted (b) Auction expenditure justification reportNot later than April...

§ 310. License ownership restrictions - (a) Grant to or holding by foreign government or representativeThe...

§ 311. Requirements as to certain applications in broadcasting service - (a) Notices of filing and hearing; form and contentsWhen there...

§ 312. Administrative sanctions - (a) Revocation of station license or construction permitThe Commission may...

§ 312a. Revocation of operator’s license used in unlawful distribution of controlled substances - The Federal Communications Commission may revoke any private operator’s license...

§ 313. Application of antitrust laws to manufacture, sale, and trade in radio apparatus - (a) Revocation of licensesAll laws of the United States relating...

§ 314. Competition in commerce; preservation - After the effective date of this chapter no person engaged...

§ 315. Candidates for public office - (a) Equal opportunities requirement; censorship prohibition; allowance of station use;...

§ 316. Modification by Commission of station licenses or construction permits; burden of proof - (a)(1) Any station license or construction permit may be modified...

§ 317. Announcement of payment for broadcast - (a) Disclosure of person furnishing(1) All matter broadcast by any...

§ 318. Transmitting apparatus; operator’s license - The actual operation of all transmitting apparatus in any radio...

§ 319. Construction permits - (a) RequirementsNo license shall be issued under the authority of...

§ 320. Stations liable to interfere with distress signals; designation and regulation - The Commission is authorized to designate from time to time...

§ 321. Distress signals and communications; equipment on vessels; regulations - (a) The transmitting set in a radio station on shipboard...

§ 322. Exchanging radio communications between land and ship stations and from ship to ship - Every land station open to general public service between the...

§ 323. Interference between Government and commercial stations - (a) At all places where Government and private or commercial...

§ 324. Use of minimum power - In all circumstances, except in case of radio communications or...

§ 325. False, fraudulent, or unauthorized transmissions - (a) False distress signals; rebroadcasting programsNo person within the jurisdiction...

§ 326. Censorship - Nothing in this chapter shall be understood or construed to...

§ 327. Naval stations; use for commercial messages; rates - The Secretary of the Navy is authorized, unless restrained by...

§ 328. Repealed. , , -

§ 329. Administration of radio laws in Territories and possessions - The Commission is authorized to designate any officer or employee...

§ 330. Prohibition against shipment of certain television receivers - (a) No person shall ship in interstate commerce, or import...

§ 331. Very high frequency stations and AM radio stations - (a) Very high frequency stationsIt shall be the policy of...

§ 332. Mobile services - (a) Factors which Commission must considerIn taking actions to manage...

§ 333. Willful or malicious interference - No person shall willfully or maliciously interfere with or cause...

§ 334. Limitation on revision of equal employment opportunity regulations - (a) LimitationExcept as specifically provided in this section, the Commission...

§ 335. Direct broadcast satellite service obligations - (a) Proceeding required to review DBS responsibilitiesThe Commission shall, within...

§ 336. Broadcast spectrum flexibility - (a) Commission actionIf the Commission determines to issue additional licenses...

§ 337. Allocation and assignment of new public safety services licenses and commercial licenses - (a) In generalNot later than January 1, 1998, the Commission...

§ 338. Carriage of local television signals by satellite carriers - (a) Carriage obligations(1) In generalEach satellite carrier providing, under section...

§ 339. Carriage of distant television stations by satellite carriers - (a) Provisions relating to carriage of distant signals(1) Carriage permitted(A)...

§ 340. Significantly viewed signals permitted to be carried - (a) Significantly viewed stationsIn addition to the broadcast signals that...

§ 341. Carriage of television signals to certain subscribers - (a)(1) In General.—A cable operator or satellite carrier may elect...

§ 342. Process for issuing qualified carrier certification - (a) CertificationThe Commission shall issue a certification for the purposes...

§ 343. Conditions on commercial terrestrial operations - (a) In generalThe Commission shall not permit commercial terrestrial operations...

§ 344. Repealed. , , -

§ 345. Protection of survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and related crimes - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) AbuserThe term “abuser” means an individual...

Part II— Radio Equipment and Radio Operators On Board Ship

§ 351. Ship radio stations and operations - (a) Except as provided in section 352 hereof it shall...

§ 352. Exemptions - (a) Vessels exceptedThe provisions of this part shall not apply...

§ 353. Radio equipment and operators - (a) Two radio officers requiredEach cargo ship which in accordance...

§ 353a. Operators and watches on radiotelephone equipped ships - (a) Each cargo ship which in accordance with this part...

§ 354. Technical requirements of equipment on radiotelegraph equipped ships - (a) The radiotelegraph station shall include a main installation and...

§ 354a. Technical requirements of equipment on radiotelephone equipped ships - (a) The radiotelephone station shall be in the upper part...

§ 355. Survival craft - Every ship required to be provided with survival craft radio...

§ 356. Approval of installations by Commission - (1) To approve the details as to the location and...

§ 357. Safety information - (a) Transmission of information concerning safety at seaThe master of...

§ 358. Master’s control over operations - The radio installation, the operators, the regulation of their watches,...

§ 359. Certificates of compliance; issuance, modification, and cancellation - (a) Each vessel of the United States to which the...

§ 360. Station licenses; inspection of equipment by Commission - (a) In addition to any other provisions required to be...

§ 361. Control by Commission; review of decisions - Nothing in this subchapter shall be interpreted as lessening in...

§ 362. Forfeitures; recovery - (a) Any ship that leaves or attempts to leave any...

§ 363. Automated ship distress and safety systems - Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter or any other provision...

Part III— Radio Installations on Vessels Carrying Passengers for Hire

§ 381. Vessels transporting more than six passengers for hire required to be equipped with radiotelephone - Except as provided in , it shall be unlawful for...

§ 382. Vessels excepted from radiotelephone requirement - (1) vessels which are equipped with a radio installation in...

§ 383. Exemptions by Commission - The Commission shall exempt from the provisions of this part...

§ 384. Authority of Commission; operations, installations, and additional equipment - (1) to specify operating and technical conditions and characteristics including...

§ 385. Inspections - The Commission or an entity designated by the Commission shall...

§ 386. Forfeitures - (a) Any vessel of the United States that is navigated...

Part IV— Assistance for Planning and Construction of Public Telecommunications Facilities; Telecommunications Demonstrations; Corporation for Public Broadcasting; General Provisions -

SUBCHAPTER IV— PROCEDURAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

§ 401. Enforcement provisions - (a) JurisdictionThe district courts of the United States shall have...

§ 402. Judicial review of Commission’s orders and decisions - (a) ProcedureAny proceeding to enjoin, set aside, annul, or suspend...

§ 403. Inquiry by Commission on its own motion - The Commission shall have full authority and power at any...

§ 404. Reports of investigations - Whenever an investigation shall be made by the Commission it...

§ 405. Petition for reconsideration; procedure; disposition; time of filing; additional evidence; time for disposition of petition for reconsideration of order concluding hearing or investigation; appeal of order - (a) After an order, decision, report, or action has been...

§ 406. Compelling furnishing of facilities; mandamus; jurisdiction - The district courts of the United States shall have jurisdiction...

§ 407. Order for payment of money; petition for enforcement; procedure; order of Commission as prima facie evidence; costs; attorneys’ fees - If a carrier does not comply with an order for...

§ 408. Order not for payment of money; when effective - Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, all orders of...

§ 409. Hearings - (a) Filing of initial decisions; exceptionsIn every case of adjudication...

§ 410. Joint boards and commissions - (a) State joint boards; reference of communication matters; composition; jurisdiction,...

§ 411. Joinder of parties - (a) In any proceeding for the enforcement of the provisions...

§ 412. Documents filed with Commission as public records; prima facie evidence; confidential records - The copies of schedules of charges, classifications, and of all...

§ 413. Designation of agent for service; method of service - It shall be the duty of every carrier subject to...

§ 414. Exclusiveness of chapter - Nothing in this chapter contained shall in any way abridge...

§ 415. Limitations of actions - (a) Recovery of charges by carrierAll actions at law by...

§ 416. Orders of Commission - (a) ServiceEvery order of the Commission shall be forthwith served...

SUBCHAPTER V— PENAL PROVISIONS; FORFEITURES

§ 501. General penalty - Any person who willfully and knowingly does or causes or...

§ 502. Violation of rules, regulations, etc. - Any person who willfully and knowingly violates any rule, regulation,...

§ 503. Forfeitures - (a) Rebates and offsetsAny person who shall deliver messages for...

§ 504. Forfeitures - (a) RecoveryThe forfeitures provided for in this chapter shall be...

§ 505. Venue of trials - The trial of any offense under this chapter shall be...

§ 506. Repealed. , , -

§ 507. Violation of Great Lakes Agreement - (a) Any vessel of the United States that is navigated...

§ 508. Disclosure of payments to individuals connected with broadcasts - (a) Payments to station employeesSubject to subsection (d), any employee...

§ 509. Prohibited practices in contests of knowledge, skill, or chance - (a) Influencing, prearranging, or predetermining outcomeIt shall be unlawful for...

§ 510. Forfeiture of communications devices - (a) Violation with willful and knowing intentAny electronic, electromagnetic, radio...

§ 511. Enhanced penalties for pirate radio broadcasting; enforcement sweeps; reporting - (a) Increased general penaltyAny person who willfully and knowingly does...

SUBCHAPTER V–A— CABLE COMMUNICATIONS

Part I— General Provisions

§ 521. Purposes - (1) establish a national policy concerning cable communications; (2) establish...

§ 522. Definitions - (1) the term “activated channels” means those channels engineered at...

Part II— Use of Cable Channels and Cable Ownership Restrictions

§ 531. Cable channels for public, educational, or governmental use - (a) Authority to establish requirements with respect to designation or...

§ 532. Cable channels for commercial use - (a) PurposeThe purpose of this section is to promote competition...

§ 533. Ownership restrictions - (a) Cable operator holding license for multichannel distribution or offering...

§ 534. Carriage of local commercial television signals - (a) Carriage obligationsEach cable operator shall carry, on the cable...

§ 535. Carriage of noncommercial educational television - (a) Carriage obligationsIn addition to the carriage requirements set forth...

§ 536. Regulation of carriage agreements - (a) RegulationsWithin one year after October 5, 1992, the Commission...

§ 537. Sales of cable systems - A franchising authority shall, if the franchise requires franchising authority...

§ 537a. Carriage of certain programming - (a) DefinitionsIn this section—(1) the term “local commercial television station”...

Part III— Franchising and Regulation

§ 541. General franchise requirements - (a) Authority to award franchises; public rights-of-way and easements; equal...

§ 542. Franchise fees - (a) Payment under terms of franchiseSubject to the limitation of...

§ 543. Regulation of rates - (a) Competition preference; local and Federal regulation(1) In generalNo Federal...

§ 544. Regulation of services, facilities, and equipment - (a) Regulation by franchising authorityAny franchising authority may not regulate...

§ 544a. Consumer electronics equipment compatibility - (a) FindingsThe Congress finds that—(1) new and recent models of...

§ 545. Modification of franchise obligations - (a) Grounds for modification by franchising authority; public proceeding; time...

§ 546. Renewal - (a) Commencement of proceedings; public notice and participation(1) A franchising...

§ 547. Conditions of sale - (a) If a renewal of a franchise held by a...

§ 548. Development of competition and diversity in video programming distribution - (a) PurposeThe purpose of this section is to promote the...

§ 549. Competitive availability of navigation devices - (a) Commercial consumer availability of equipment used to access services...

Part IV— Miscellaneous Provisions

§ 551. Protection of subscriber privacy - (a) Notice to subscriber regarding personally identifiable information; definitions(1) At...

§ 552. Consumer protection and customer service - (a) Franchising authority enforcementA franchising authority may establish and enforce—(1)...

§ 553. Unauthorized reception of cable service - (a) Unauthorized interception or receipt or assistance in intercepting or...

§ 554. Equal employment opportunity - (a) Entities within scope of coverageThis section shall apply to...

§ 555. Judicial proceedings - (a) Actions to review determinations by franchising authoritiesAny cable operator...

§ 555a. Limitation of franchising authority liability - (a) Suits for damages prohibitedIn any court proceeding pending on...

§ 556. Coordination of Federal, State, and local authority - (a) Regulation by States, political subdivisions, State and local agencies,...

§ 557. Existing franchises - (a) The provisions of—(1) any franchise in effect on the...

§ 558. Criminal and civil liability - Nothing in this subchapter shall be deemed to affect the...

§ 559. Obscene programming - Whoever transmits over any cable system any matter which is...

§ 560. Scrambling of cable channels for nonsubscribers - (a) Subscriber requestUpon request by a cable service subscriber, a...

§ 561. Scrambling of sexually explicit adult video service programming - (a) RequirementIn providing sexually explicit adult programming or other programming...

§ 562. Requirements relating to charges for covered services - (a) Consumer rights in sales(1) Right to transparencyBefore entering into...

Part V— Video Programming Services Provided by Telephone Companies

§ 571. Regulatory treatment of video programming services - (a) Limitations on cable regulation(1) Radio-based systemsTo the extent that...

§ 572. Prohibition on buy outs - (a) Acquisitions by carriersNo local exchange carrier or any affiliate...

§ 573. Establishment of open video systems - (a) Open video systems(1) Certificates of complianceA local exchange carrier...

SUBCHAPTER VI— MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

§ 601. Interstate Commerce Commission and Postmaster General; duties, powers, and functions transferred to Commission - (a) All duties, powers, and functions of the Interstate Commerce...

§§ 602, 603. Repealed. , , -

§ 604. Effect of transfer - (a) Orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, contracts, licenses, and privilegesAll...

§ 605. Unauthorized publication or use of communications - (a) Practices prohibitedExcept as authorized by chapter 119, title 18,...

§ 606. War powers of President - (a) Priority communicationsDuring the continuance of a war in which...

§ 607. Effective date of chapter - This chapter shall take effect upon the organization of the...

§ 608. Separability - If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof...

§ 609. Short title - This chapter may be cited as the “Communications Act of...

§ 610. Telephone service for disabled - (a) Establishment of regulationsThe Commission shall establish such regulations as...

§ 611. Closed-captioning of public service announcements - (1) shall not be required to supply closed captioning for...

§ 612. Syndicated exclusivity - (a) The Federal Communications Commission shall initiate a combined inquiry...

§ 613. Video programming accessibility - (a) Repealed. Pub. L. 115–141, div. P, title IV, §...

§ 614. Telecommunications Development Fund - (a) Purpose of sectionIt is the purpose of this section—(1)...

§ 615. Support for universal emergency telephone number - The Federal Communications Commission shall encourage and support efforts by...

§ 615a. Service provider parity of protection - (a) Provider parityA wireless carrier, IP-enabled voice service provider, or...

§ 615a–1. Duty to provide 9–1–1 and enhanced 9–1–1 service - (a) DutiesIt shall be the duty of each IP-enabled voice...

§ 615b. Definitions - (1) SecretaryThe term “Secretary” means the Secretary of Transportation. (2)...

§ 615c. Emergency Access Advisory Committee - (a) EstablishmentFor the purpose of achieving equal access to emergency...

§ 616. Internet protocol-based relay services - Within one year after , each interconnected VoIP service provider...

§ 617. Access to advanced communications services and equipment - (a) Manufacturing(1) In generalWith respect to equipment manufactured after the...

§ 618. Enforcement and recordkeeping obligations - (a) Complaint and enforcement proceduresWithin one year after October 8,...

§ 619. Internet browsers built into telephones used with public mobile services - (a) AccessibilityIf a manufacturer of a telephone used with public...

§ 620. Relay services for deaf-blind individuals - (a) In generalWithin 6 months after October 8, 2010, the...

§ 621. Rulemaking on loud commercials required - (a) Rulemaking requiredWithin 1 year after December 15, 2010, the...

§ 622. Optional electronic labeling of communications equipment - (a) DefinitionsIn this section—(1) the term “electronic labeling” means displaying...

§ 623. Configuration of multi-line telephone systems for direct dialing of 9–1–1. - (a) System manufacture, importation, sale, and leaseA person engaged in...

§ 624. Disclosure requirements for United States-based foreign media outlets - (a) Reports by outlets to CommissionNot later than 60 days...

SUBCHAPTER VII— BROADBAND DATA

§ 641. Definitions - (1) Broadband internet access serviceThe term “broadband internet access service”...

§ 642. Broadband maps - (a) Rules(1) In generalNot later than 180 days after March...

§ 643. Enforcement - It shall be unlawful for an entity or individual to...

§ 644. Improving data accuracy - (a) AuditsThe Commission shall conduct regular audits of information submitted...

§ 645. Cost - (a) USFThe Commission may not use funds from the universal...

§ 646. Other provisions - (a) OMBNotwithstanding any other provision of law, the initial rule...

CHAPTER 6— COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE SYSTEM

SUBCHAPTER I— GENERAL PROVISIONS

§ 701. Omitted -

§ 702. Definitions - (1) the term “communications satellite system” refers to a system...

§ 703. Repealed. , , -

SUBCHAPTER II— FEDERAL COORDINATION, PLANNING, AND REGULATION

§ 721. Implementation of policy - (a) the President shall—(1) to (7) omitted. (b) omitted. (c)...

SUBCHAPTER III— COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE CORPORATION

§§ 731 to 735. Omitted -

SUBCHAPTER IV— MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

§§ 741 to 744. Omitted -

SUBCHAPTER V— INTERNATIONAL MARITIME SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS

§§ 751, 752. Omitted -

§ 753. Implementation of policy - (a) The Secretary of Commerce shall—(1) coordinate the activities of...

§§ 754 to 756. Repealed. , , -

§ 757. Definitions - (1) the term “person” includes an individual, partnership, association, joint...

SUBCHAPTER VI— COMMUNICATIONS COMPETITION AND PRIVATIZATION

Part A— Actions To Ensure Pro-Competitive Privatization

§ 761. Federal Communications Commission licensing - (a) Licensing for separated entities(1) Competition testThe Commission may not...

§ 761a. Incentives; limitation on expansion pending privatization - (a) LimitationUntil INTELSAT, Inmarsat, and their successor or separate entities...

Part B— Federal Communications Commission Licensing Criteria: Privatization Criteria

§ 763. General criteria to ensure a pro-competitive privatization of INTELSAT and Inmarsat - (1) Dates for privatizationPrivatization shall be obtained in accordance with...

§ 763a. Specific criteria for INTELSAT - (1) 11 So in original. No par. (2) has been...

§ 763b. Repealed. , , -

§ 763c. Space segment capacity of the GMDSS - The United States shall preserve the space segment capacity of...

§ 763d. Encouraging market access and privatization - (a) NTIA determination(1) Determination requiredWithin 180 days after March 17,...

Part C— Deregulation and Other Statutory Changes

§ 765. Access to INTELSAT - (a) Access permittedBeginning on March 17, 2000, users or providers...

§ 765a. Signatory role - (a) Limitations on signatories(1) National security limitationsThe Federal Communications Commission,...

§ 765b. Elimination of procurement preferences - Nothing in this subchapter or the Communications Act of 1934...

§ 765c. ITU functions - (a) Technical coordinationThe Commission and United States satellite companies shall...

§ 765d. Termination of provisions of this chapter - (1) March 17, 2000: Paragraphs (1), (5) and (6) of...

§ 765e. Repealed. , , -

§ 765f. Satellite auctions - Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Commission shall not...

§ 765g. Exclusivity arrangements - (a) In generalNo satellite operator shall acquire or enjoy the...

Part D— Negotiations To Pursue Privatization

§ 767. Methods to pursue privatization - The President shall secure the pro-competitive privatizations required by this...

Part E— Definitions

§ 769. Definitions - (a) In generalAs used in this subchapter:(1) INTELSATThe term “INTELSAT”...

CHAPTER 7— CAMPAIGN COMMUNICATIONS

§§ 801 to 805. Repealed. , , -

CHAPTER 8— NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION

SUBCHAPTER I— ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTIONS

§ 901. Definitions; findings; policy - (a) DefinitionsIn this chapter, the following definitions apply:(1) The term...

§ 902. Establishment; assigned functions - (a) Establishment(1) AdministrationThere shall be within the Department of Commerce...

§ 903. Spectrum management activities - (a) Revision of regulationsWithin 180 days after October 27, 1992,...

§ 904. General administrative provisions - (a) Interagency functions(1) Agency consultationFederal agencies shall consult with the...

§ 905. Omitted -

§ 906. Wireless supply chain innovation and multilateral security - (a) Communications technology security funds(1) Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation...

SUBCHAPTER II— TRANSFER OF AUCTIONABLE FREQUENCIES

§ 921. Definitions - (1) The term “allocation” means an entry in the National...

§ 922. National spectrum allocation planning - (1) the extent to which licenses for spectrum use can...

§ 923. Identification of reallocable frequencies - (a) Identification requiredThe Secretary shall, within 18 months after August...

§ 924. Withdrawal or limitation of assignment to Federal Government stations - (a) In generalThe President shall—(1) within 6 months after receipt...

§ 925. Distribution of frequencies by Commission - (a) Allocation and assignment of immediately available frequenciesWith respect to...

§ 926. Authority to recover reassigned frequencies - (a) Authority of PresidentSubsequent to the withdrawal of assignment to...

§ 927. Existing allocation and transfer authority retained - (a) Additional reallocationNothing in this subchapter prevents or limits additional...

§ 928. Spectrum Relocation Fund - (a) Establishment of Spectrum Relocation FundThere is established on the...

§ 929. National security and other sensitive information - (a) DeterminationIf the head of an Executive agency (as defined...

SUBCHAPTER III— MISCELLANEOUS

§ 941. Child-friendly second-level Internet domain - (a) ResponsibilitiesThe NTIA shall require the registry selected to operate...

§ 942. Coordination of 9–1–1, E9–1–1, and Next Generation 9–1–1 implementation - (a) 9–1–1 Implementation Coordination Office(1) Establishment and continuationThe Assistant Secretary...

CHAPTER 9— INTERCEPTION OF DIGITAL AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS

SUBCHAPTER I— INTERCEPTION OF DIGITAL AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS

§ 1001. Definitions - (1) The terms defined in section 2510 of title 18...

§ 1002. Assistance capability requirements - (a) Capability requirementsExcept as provided in subsections (b), (c), and...

§ 1003. Notices of capacity requirements - (a) Notices of maximum and actual capacity requirements(1) In generalNot...

§ 1004. Systems security and integrity - A telecommunications carrier shall ensure that any interception of communications...

§ 1005. Cooperation of equipment manufacturers and providers of telecommunications support services - (a) ConsultationA telecommunications carrier shall consult, as necessary, in a...

§ 1006. Technical requirements and standards; extension of compliance date - (a) Safe harbor(1) ConsultationTo ensure the efficient and industry-wide implementation...

§ 1007. Enforcement orders - (a) Grounds for issuanceA court shall issue an order enforcing...

§ 1008. Payment of costs of telecommunications carriers to comply with capability requirements - (a) Equipment, facilities, and services deployed on or before January...

§ 1009. Authorization of appropriations - There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this...

§ 1010. Reports - (a) Reports by Attorney General(1) In generalOn or before November...

SUBCHAPTER II— TELECOMMUNICATIONS CARRIER COMPLIANCE PAYMENTS

§ 1021. Department of Justice Telecommunications Carrier Compliance Fund - (a) Establishment of FundThere is hereby established in the United...

CHAPTER 10— SATELLITE CARRIER RETRANSMISSION ELIGIBILITY

§§ 1101 to 1110. Repealed. , , -

CHAPTER 11— COMMERCIAL MOBILE SERVICE ALERTS

§ 1201. Federal Communications Commission duties - (a) Commercial mobile service alert regulationsWithin 180 days after the...

§ 1202. Commercial Mobile Service Alert Advisory Committee - (a) EstablishmentNot later than 60 days after October 13, 2006,...

§ 1203. Research and development - (a) In generalThe Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Science...

§ 1204. Grant program for remote community alert systems - (a) Grant programThe Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and...

§ 1205. Funding - (a) In generalIn addition to any amounts provided by appropriation...

§ 1206. Reliable emergency alert distribution improvement - (a) Wireless emergency alerts system offerings(1) Omitted (2) RegulationsNot later...

CHAPTER 12— BROADBAND

§ 1301. Findings - (1) The deployment and adoption of broadband technology has resulted...

§ 1302. Advanced telecommunications incentives - (a) In generalThe Commission and each State commission with regulatory...

§ 1303. Improving Federal data on broadband - (a) Omitted (b) International comparison(1) In generalAs part of its...

§ 1304. Encouraging State initiatives to improve broadband - (a) PurposesThe purposes of any grant under subsection (b) are—(1)...

§ 1305. Broadband Technology Opportunities Program - (a) EstablishmentThe Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information...

§ 1306. Connecting minority communities - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Anchor community(A) In generalThe term “anchor...

§ 1307. Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth - (a) Short titleThis section may be cited as the “Advancing...

§ 1308. Interagency agreement - (a) Short titleThis section may be cited as the “Broadband...

CHAPTER 13— PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS AND ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM AUCTIONS

SUBCHAPTER I— REALLOCATION OF PUBLIC SAFETY SPECTRUM

§ 1411. Reallocation of D block to public safety - (a) In generalThe Commission shall reallocate the 700 MHz D...

§ 1412. Flexible use of narrowband spectrum - The Commission may allow the narrowband spectrum to be used...

§ 1413. Repealed. , , -

SUBCHAPTER II— GOVERNANCE OF PUBLIC SAFETY SPECTRUM

§ 1421. Single public safety wireless network licensee - (a) Reallocation and grant of licenseNotwithstanding any other provision of...

§ 1422. Public safety broadband network - (a) EstablishmentThe First Responder Network Authority shall ensure the establishment...

§ 1423. Public safety Interoperability Board - (a) EstablishmentThere is established within the Commission an advisory board...

§ 1424. Establishment of the First Responder Network Authority - (a) EstablishmentThere is established as an independent authority within the...

§ 1425. Advisory committees of the First Responder Network Authority - (a) Advisory committeesThe First Responder Network Authority—(1) shall establish a...

§ 1426. Powers, duties, and responsibilities of the First Responder Network Authority - (a) General powersThe First Responder Network Authority shall have the...

§ 1427. Initial funding for the First Responder Network Authority - (a) Borrowing authorityPrior to the deposit of proceeds into the...

§ 1428. Permanent self-funding; duty to assess and collect fees for network use - (a) In generalNotwithstanding section 337 of this title, the First...

§ 1429. Audit and report - (a) Audit(1) In generalThe Secretary of Commerce shall enter into...

§ 1430. Annual report to Congress - (a) In generalNot later than 1 year after February 22,...

§ 1431. Public safety roaming and priority access - (1) the public safety entity equipment is technically compatible with...

§ 1432. Prohibition on direct offering of commercial telecommunications service directly to consumers - (a) In generalThe First Responder Network Authority shall not offer,...

§ 1433. Provision of technical assistance - The Commission may provide technical assistance to the First Responder...

SUBCHAPTER III— PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITMENTS

§ 1441. State and Local Implementation Fund - (a) EstablishmentThere is established in the Treasury of the United...

§ 1442. State and local implementation - (a) Establishment of State and Local Implementation Grant ProgramThe Assistant...

§ 1443. Public safety wireless communications research and development - (a) NIST directed research and development programFrom amounts made available...

SUBCHAPTER IV— SPECTRUM AUCTION AUTHORITY

§ 1451. Deadlines for auction of certain spectrum - (a) Clearing certain Federal spectrum(1) In generalThe President shall—(A) not...

§ 1452. Special requirements for incentive auction of broadcast TV spectrum - (a) Reverse auction to identify incentive amount(1) In generalThe Commission...

§ 1453. Unlicensed use in the 5 GHZ band - (a) Modification of Commission regulations to allow certain unlicensed use(1)...

§ 1454. Guard bands and unlicensed use - (a) In generalNothing in subparagraph (G) of section 309(j)(8) of...

§ 1455. Wireless facilities deployment - (a) Facility modifications(1) In generalNotwithstanding section 704 of the Telecommunications...

§ 1456. System certification - Not later than 6 months after , the Director of...

§ 1457. Public Safety Trust Fund - (a) Establishment of Public Safety Trust Fund(1) In generalThere is...

SUBCHAPTER V— NEXT GENERATION 9–1–1 ADVANCEMENT ACT OF 2012

§ 1471. Definitions - (1) 9–1–1 services and E9–1–1 servicesThe terms “9–1–1 services” and...

§ 1472. Parity of protection for provision or use of Next Generation 9–1–1 services - (a) ImmunityA provider or user of Next Generation 9–1–1 services,...

§ 1473. Commission proceeding on autodialing - (a) In generalNot later than 90 days after February 22,...

CHAPTER 14— MAKING OPPORTUNITIES FOR BROADBAND INVESTMENT AND LIMITING EXCESSIVE AND NEEDLESS OBSTACLES TO WIRELESS

§ 1501. Definitions - (1) Appropriate committees of CongressThe term “appropriate committees of Congress”...

§ 1502. Identifying 255 megahertz - (a) Requirements(1) In generalNot later than December 31, 2022, the...

§ 1503. Millimeter wave spectrum - (a) FCC proceedingNot later than 2 years after March 23,...

§ 1504. Broadband infrastructure deployment - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Appropriate State agencyThe term “appropriate State...

§ 1505. Unlicensed services in guard bands - (a) In generalAfter public notice and comment, and in consultation...

§ 1506. Rulemaking related to partitioning or disaggregating licenses - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Covered small carrierThe term “covered small...

§ 1507. Unlicensed spectrum policy - (a) Statement of policyIt is the policy of the United...

§ 1508. National plan for unlicensed spectrum - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Spectrum Relocation FundThe term “Spectrum Relocation...

§ 1509. Spectrum Challenge Prize - (a) Short titleThis section may be cited as the “Spectrum...

§ 1510. Wireless telecommunications tax and fee collection fairness - (a) Short titleThis section may be cited as the “Wireless...

§ 1511. Rules of construction - (a) Ranges of frequenciesEach range of frequencies described in this...

§ 1512. Relationship to Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 - Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to limit, restrict,...

§ 1513. No additional funds authorized - No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry...

CHAPTER 15— SECURE AND TRUSTED COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

§ 1601. Determination of communications equipment or services posing national security risks - (a) Publication of covered communications equipment or services listNot later...

§ 1602. Prohibition on use of certain Federal subsidies - (a) In general(1) ProhibitionA Federal subsidy that is made available...

§ 1603. Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program - (a) In generalThe Commission shall establish a reimbursement program, to...

§ 1604. Reports on covered communications equipment or services - (a) In generalEach provider of advanced communications service shall submit...

§ 1605. Hold harmless - In the case of a person who is a winner...

§ 1606. Enforcement - (a) ViolationsA violation of this chapter or a regulation promulgated...

§ 1607. NTIA program for preventing future vulnerabilities - (a) Future vulnerability program(1) EstablishmentNot later than 120 days after...

§ 1608. Definitions - (1) Advanced communications serviceThe term “advanced communications service” has the...

§ 1609. Severability - If any provision of this chapter, or the application of...

CHAPTER 16— BROADBAND ACCESS

SUBCHAPTER I— BROADBAND GRANTS FOR STATES, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, PUERTO RICO, AND TERRITORIES

§ 1701. Findings - (1) Access to affordable, reliable, high-speed broadband is essential to...

§ 1702. Grants for broadband deployment - (a) Definitions(1) Areas, locations, and institutions lacking broadband accessIn this...

§ 1703. Broadband DATA maps - (a) DefinitionIn this section, the term “Commission” means the Federal...

§ 1704. Broadband Deployment Locations Map - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Broadband infrastructureThe term “broadband infrastructure” means...

§ 1705. Grants for broadband connectivity - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Assistant SecretaryThe term “Assistant Secretary” means...

SUBCHAPTER II— DIGITAL EQUITY ACT OF 2021

§ 1721. Definitions - (1) Adoption of broadbandThe term “adoption of broadband” means the...

§ 1722. Sense of Congress - (1) a broadband connection and digital literacy are increasingly critical...

§ 1723. State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program - (a) Establishment; purpose(1) In generalThe Assistant Secretary shall establish in...

§ 1724. Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program - (a) Establishment(1) In generalNot later than 30 days after the...

§ 1725. Policy research, data collection, analysis and modeling, evaluation, and dissemination - (a) Reporting requirements(1) In generalNot later than 1 year after...

§ 1726. General provisions - (a) Nondiscrimination(1) In generalNo individual in the United States may,...

SUBCHAPTER III— ENABLING MIDDLE MILE BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE

§ 1741. Enabling middle mile broadband infrastructure - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Anchor institutionThe term “anchor institution” means...

SUBCHAPTER IV— BROADBAND AFFORDABILITY

§ 1751. Definitions - (1) the term “broadband internet access service” has the meaning...

§ 1752. Benefit for broadband service - (a) DefinitionsIn this section:(1) Broadband internet access serviceThe term “broadband...

§ 1753. Adoption of consumer broadband labels - (a) Final ruleNot later than 1 year after November 15,...

§ 1754. Digital discrimination - (a) Statement of policyIt is the policy of the United...

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US Code Title 47— TELECOMMUNICATIONS

US Code
Title 47— TELECOMMUNICATIONS