FCC Proposes Banning Entities on ‘Covered List’ from Receiving Blanket Authority to Provide Telecommunications Services
Proceeding Looks to Close Any Regulatory Gaps That Entities Posing National Security Risks Might Exploit
   
WASHINGTON, April 30, 2026—Today, the Federal Communications Commission voted to launch a proceeding to block entities on the agency’s Covered List from receiving automatic authorization to provide domestic interstate telecommunications services in America and ask more broadly what other regulatory actions should be considered to further protect our nation’s telecommunications networks from entities that pose an unacceptable national security risk.  The FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, pursuant to the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act, publishes the Covered List of communications equipment and services that are deemed to pose an unacceptable national security risk.  Additions to the Covered List are made based on recommendations of Executive Branch national security agencies.

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted today proposes banning Covered List entities from being granted blanket domestic operating authority under section 214 of the Communications Act of 1934.  A section 214 authorization is required for providing telecommunications services in the United States, and the Commission has granted the authorization on an automatic blanket basis to most domestic carriers seeking to offer service in the U.S. since 1999.  Today’s action proposes to strengthen national security by ending such authorization for all Covered List entities.   

The Commission is also seeking comment on other potential exclusions from blanket operating authority under section 214 – beyond the Covered List – that might further bolster national security.  It also seeks comment on a process for revoking operating authority for any entities on the Covered List that already currently provide domestic interstate telecommunications services subject to blanket section 214 authority.  The Commission is also considering whether to prohibit telecommunications carriers from interconnecting with Covered List entities, based on national security concerns, unless such entities have applied for and received authorization from the Commission.  Finally, the proposal seeks broad input on any additional measures the Commission should consider to further national security as it relates to entities holding section 214 authorizations.

Action by the Commission April 30, 2026 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 26-29).  Chairman Carr, Commissioners Gomez and Trusty approving.  Chairman Carr and Commissioner Trusty issuing separate statements.

WC Docket No. 26-82

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