Media Contact: Cecilia Sulhoff, (202) 418-0587 cecilia.sulhoff@fcc.gov For Immediate Release FCC PROPOSES TO UPDATE HEARING AID COMPATIBILITY RULES Proposed Amendments Would Incorporate Latest Standard for Hearing Aid Compatibility -- WASHINGTON, January 30, 2020—The Federal Communications Commission today launched a rulemaking proceeding to ensure that the tens of millions of Americans with hearing loss have access to the same types of technologically advanced wireless handsets as those without hearing loss. In the adopted Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission proposes to update its rules to incorporate the latest American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard for evaluating whether a handset is hearing aid compatible, which was issued in 2019. During a proposed two-year transition period, handsets could be tested for compatibility under either the 2011 ANSI standard that is currently in the rules or the new 2019 ANSI standard. After the transition, the Notice proposes that only the new 2019 ANSI standard could be used. The Commission also proposes to adjust its current volume control deadline to coincide with the end of the transition period. In addition, the Commission proposes to remove unnecessary or superseded rules and seeks comment on ways to simplify and update its hearing aid compatibility rules. The action proposed by the FCC today would ensure that its hearing aid compatibility requirements fully satisfy their purpose and reflect technological advances. Action by the Commission January 30, 2020 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 20-6). Chairman Pai, Commissioners O’Rielly, Carr, Rosenworcel, and Starks approving and issuing separate statements. WT Docket Nos. 20-3, 07-250, 10-254 ### 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).