Media Contact: 
Janice Wise (202) 418-8165                                 
janice.wise@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC PROPOSES TO ELIMINATE RULES REQUIRING MAINTENANCE 
OF PAPER COPIES OF FCC RULES
Proposal Would Reduce Regulatory Burdens for Broadcast and Cable Entities
WASHINGTON, September 26, 2017—The Federal Communications Commission today issued a Notice 
of Proposed Rulemaking that proposes to eliminate rules requiring certain broadcast and cable entities to 
keep paper copies of FCC rules.
More than forty years ago, the Commission adopted rules requiring low power TV, TV and FM
translator, TV and FM booster stations, cable television relay station (CARS) licensees, and certain cable
operators to maintain paper copies of Commission rules. These rules were intended to ensure that such 
entities could access and stay familiar with the rules governing their operations. 
Because the rules are now readily accessible online, many parties believe that the paper copy 
requirements are outdated and unnecessarily burdensome.  While regulated entities still would be required 
to be familiar with the rules governing their services, elimination of the paper copy requirements would 
give them flexibility to determine how to fulfill that obligation.    
This rulemaking is part of the Modernization of Media Regulation Initiative that the FCC launched earlier 
this year to reduce unnecessary regulation that can stand in the way of competition and innovation in 
media markets.  
Action by the Commission September 26, 2017 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 17-121). 
Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn, O’Rielly, Carr and Rosenworcel approving. Chairman Pai, 
Commissioners Clyburn and Carr issuing separate statements.
MB Docket No. 17-231; MB Docket No. 17-105
###
Office of Media Relations: (202) 418-0500
TTY: (888) 835-5322
Twitter: @FCC
www.fcc.gov/office-media-relations
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes
official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).