Media Contact: Mark Wigfield, (202) 418-0253 mark.wigfield@fcc.gov For Immediate Release FCC SEEKS COMMENT ON PROCEDURES FOR TOLL FREE NUMBER AUCTION First-Ever U.S. Auction of Sought-After Toll Free Numbers Planned for the 833 Code -- WASHINGTON, May 9, 2019—The Federal Communications Commission today took the next step toward launching an experiment to modernize the way it assigns toll free numbers. The FCC is seeking comment on how to structure the first-ever U.S. auction to distribute certain toll free numbers. The auction will make available approximately 17,000 numbers in the new 833 toll free code for which there have been competing requests. Many of these numbers are easy to remember, such as 833-LAWYERS or 833-333-3333. The 833 auction will serve as an experiment in using competitive bidding—rather than a first-come, first-served system—to assign toll free numbers and ensure that sought-after numbers are awarded to the parties that value them most. The FCC will use the lessons from this first-of-its-kind auction to determine how best to distribute toll free numbers in the future. The Public Notice adopted today seeks comment on specific proposed application requirements and procedures for parties interested in bidding in the auction. The proposals are similar to many of the requirements that apply in FCC spectrum and universal service support auctions. After reviewing the public comments received, the FCC will announce final auction procedures, including the application and bidding dates. Action by the Commission May 9, 2019 by Public Notice (FCC 19-41). Chairman Pai, Commissioners O’Rielly, Carr, Rosenworcel, and Starks approving. Chairman Pai, Commissioners Carr and Rosenworcel issuing separate statements. AU Docket No. 19-101, WC Docket No. 17-192, CC Docket No. 95-155 ### Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / TTY: (888) 835-5322 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov 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).