The FCC adopted a Report and Order (Order) and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) aimed to strengthen the integrity, security, and resiliency of the FCC’s equipment authorization program by prohibiting the recognition of Test Labs, Telecommunications Certification Bodies, and laboratory accreditation bodies located in non-Reciprocal Economies (i.e., territories lacking a Mutual Recognition Agreement or other comparable reciprocal trade agreement with the U.S.). The Order requires all substantive FCC testing, certification, or accreditation activities on which equipment authorization depends, to occur in the U.S. or Reciprocal Economies. The Order adopts a uniform transition period ending December 1, 2028, which would enable Test Labs to expand capacity and manufacturers in the U.S. and Reciprocal Economies two years to find alternative Test Labs and expand capacity. The FNPRM seeks comment additional equipment authorization integrity measures.
