November 2024 Open Meeting Agenda

On Halloween eve, we revive the annual debate over which candy is the best treat (Obviously, it’s Peanut M&Ms). The Commission’s next open meeting will focus on guarding against tricks—from possible attacks on undersea communications infrastructure to unwanted robocalls.  Here’s everything we have lined up for our November agenda.

• We’re updating security for vital infrastructure. Dozens of systems of submarine cable serve as the backbone of our domestic and global communications networks. Over the past two decades, the technology, economics, and security challenges involving these systems have greatly changed, but FCC oversight has not. The Commission will vote to undertake the first major comprehensive review of our submarine cable rules since 2001.
   
• We’re continuing to bolster our defenses against robocalls.  One of our most effective tools for mitigating deceptive robocalls is the STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication framework, which allows service providers to verify that the caller ID information you see on your phone is legitimate. Some providers rely on third parties for STIR/SHAKEN implementation, which has raised concerns about improperly authenticated calls and diminished accountability. To ensure the integrity of the framework, the Commission will vote to establish clear rules of the road for the use of third parties in the caller ID authentication process.
   
• We’re enabling customized content for FM radio audiences. By using booster stations to air programming different from their primary station, FM broadcasters can now deliver customized content to specific parts of their service areas. In April 2024, the Commission authorized FM broadcasters to use boosters to originate this so-called “geo-targeted” content on an experimental basis. We consider rules to enable this tailored content on a more permanent basis.
   
• We will also consider one item from our Enforcement Bureau.

— Jessica