Media Contact: 
Will Wiquist
will.wiquist@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC LOOKS TO IMPLEMENT PERIODIC NATIONAL SECURITY REVIEWS OF INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORIZATIONS
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WASHINGTON, April 20, 2023—The Federal Communications Commission today proposed new rules that would require, for the first time, companies with existing authorizations to provide international telecommunications services to and from the United States to file renewal applications at the FCC.  The proposed rules aim to enable up-to-date review of international Section 214 authorizations to fully take into account rapidly changing national security, law enforcement, and other considerations.

To stay ahead of evolving threats, the FCC proposed a framework allowing a careful review of foreign-owned authorization holders as part of a renewal process involving close consultation with our national security, law enforcement, and other colleagues in the Executive Branch, as is the FCC’s current practice for review of applications for international Section 214 authorizations with foreign ownership.  The FCC seeks comment on the proposals detailed in the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted today.  At the same time, the FCC adopted an Order to begin a one-time collection of information from international Section 214 authorization holders.  

In the last few years, the FCC has revoked the Section 214 operating authorities of four Chinese state-owned carriers based on a recommendation and comments from interested Executive Branch agencies.  The FCC took significant steps to protect the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure by revoking foreign-owned carriers’ section 214 authority to operate in the United States when that authority presented national security and law enforcement concerns that could not be mitigated.  In addition, the agency announced a first-of-its kind settlement against a company that was required to divest unvetted Russian ownership, pay a civil penalty, and put in place new security procedures to review any new ownership through the Office of Foreign Asset Control at the Treasury Department. 

This proposal would add to the numerous national security actions recently taken by the FCC. Under the Chairwoman's leadership the agency has: 
· Updated the “Covered List” prohibiting communications equipment deemed to pose an unacceptable risk to national security from being authorized for importation or sale in the United States; 
· Prohibited the use of public funds to purchase covered equipment or services;
· Launched the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program to remove unsecure equipment that has already been installed in U.S. networks;
· Updated the process for approving submarine cable licenses to better address national security concerns; and,
· Initiated inquiries on IoT security and internet outing security, among other actions.

Action by the Commission April 20, 2023 by Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 23-28).  Chairwoman Rosenworcel, Commissioners Carr, Starks, and Simington approving.  Chairwoman Rosenworcel and Commissioner Starks issuing separate statements.

IB Docket No. 23-119, MD Docket No. 23-134

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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).