FCC Updates – Radio Society of America

Based on early 2026 reports, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is heavily focused on national security, strengthening robocall regulations, updating registration requirements, and reforming the Lifeline program. Key actions include new rules regarding foreign adversary control, updated reporting requirements for registration holders, and a major crackdown on drone components.

Key 2026 FCC Policy Releases & Actions

10-Day FRN Update Rule (Effective Feb 5, 2026): All individuals or entities with an FCC Registration Number (FRN) must update their contact information in the Commission Registration System (CORES) within 10 business days of any change. Failure to update this information for users in the Robocall Mitigation Database (RMD) can result in fines of $1,000 per day.
Foreign Adversary Attestation Rules (Jan/Feb 2026): The FCC adopted new rules requiring holders of licenses, permits, and other authorizations (specifically satellite, earth station, and submarine cable operators) to attest to whether they are subject to foreign adversary control. This includes identifying if any owner has 10% or greater interest from a foreign adversary.
Drone/UAS Import Ban & Exemptions (Jan 7, 2026): The FCC restricted the importation of certain foreign-produced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and critical components deemed national security risks. A temporary exemption is in place until Jan 1, 2027, for drones that meet “Buy American” standards.

Lifeline Program Reform (Proposed Feb 2026): The FCC is considering an NPRM to strengthen the integrity of the Lifeline program, which provides discounts on voice and broadband for low-income households. Proposed changes include stricter verification (collecting Social Security numbers), usage tracking, and potential disenrollment for non-use.
6 GHz Band Expansion (Jan 29, 2026): The FCC adopted a Fourth Report and Order permitting a new class of “geo-fenced variable power” (GVP) unlicensed 6 GHz devices to operate outdoors at higher power, aiming to improve Wi-Fi performance.
Intercarrier Compensation Reform (Feb 2026): The FCC is proposing to move remaining intercarrier compensation charges to a “bill-and-keep” framework to speed up the transition to all-Internet Protocol (IP) networks.

6 GHz Band Expansion (Jan 29, 2026): The FCC adopted a Fourth Report and Order permitting a new class of “geo-fenced variable power” (GVP) unlicensed 6 GHz devices to operate outdoors at higher power, aiming to improve Wi-Fi performance.
Intercarrier Compensation Reform (Feb 2026): The FCC is proposing to move remaining intercarrier compensation charges to a “bill-and-keep” framework to speed up the transition to all-Internet Protocol (IP) networks.

FCC Approves Worldwide 60-Meter Amateur Allocation and Updates VHF Coordination

December 11, 2025

Good news for 60-meter operators. On December 9, 2025, the FCC released a long-awaited Report and Order that officially adds a worldwide amateur radio allocation in the 60-meter band. This change brings U.S. rules into line with the international allocation approved at the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference.

The new allocation gives amateurs access to 5351.5–5366.5 kHz on a secondary basis, with a maximum power limit of 9.15 watts ERP. In addition, the FCC confirmed that amateurs may continue operating on the four familiar 60-meter channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz, also on a secondary basis, but with up to 100 watts ERP allowed on those channels.

There are no antenna restrictions, but remember that antenna gain counts toward ERP, so it must be included when calculating your transmit power.

This portion of the 60-meter band is open to operators holding a General Class license or higher, and the maximum permitted signal bandwidth remains 2.8 kHz.

As always with 60 meters, amateurs must operate carefully. The FCC stressed that this band is shared with primary users, including federal stations, and amateurs are required to avoid causing interference. That means listening carefully, using appropriate receiver bandwidths, and being ready to move if necessary. The Commission made it clear that protecting primary users is a top priority.

The FCC also noted that additional rulemaking may take place in the future to address technical details related to the international allocation, including possible power adjustments.

Finally, the same FCC action included an update to coordination and contact information for certain areas in the 420–450 MHz band where amateur stations are generally limited to 50 watts PEP. These were administrative updates only—no changes were made to the areas covered by the power limits.

Overall, this is a positive step forward for U.S. amateurs, especially those who enjoy operating on 60 meters. Keep an eye out for the final publication in the Federal Register, as the new rules take effect 30 days after publication.