Federal Communications Commission

What is the Federal Communications Commission?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent United States federal agency responsible for regulating television, radio, satellite, wire, and broadband access across the country. The agency evolved from its predecessor, the Federal Radio Commission, thanks to the Communications Act of 1934. 

In the telephony sector, the FCC took over control of wire communication from the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC). It now has authority over cable television, Internet access, and telephone networks. 

Why should you care about the Federal Communications Commission? 

The FCC was responsible for creating the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which broke up the Bell operating company monopoly and solidified the current structure of local exchange carriers throughout the United States. 

Today, the FCC contains seven bureaus, which include: 

• The Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB) oversees the consumer-facing side of the agency’s work. It responds to customer inquiries and complaints. 
• The Enforcement Bureau (EB), as its name suggests, enforces FCC rulings and orders. 
• The International Bureau (IB) works with international policies. It helps organize frequency allocation to prevent electromagnetic interference during radio communications. 
• The Media Bureau (MB) regulates television, radio, and other forms of electronic media. 
• The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) looks at wireless services like mobile or cellular phones. It also covers licensing policies for commercial radio. 
• The Wireline Competition Bureau (WCB) regulates the ordinary telephone service of the U.S., including the infrastructure related to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). 
• The Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) ensures access to dependable 911, emergency services, and first responder communications. 

The FCC aims to foster a strong market of fair competition in the telephony space. It also ensures: 

• Accessible communication services at a reasonable price to all citizens without discrimination 
• Fair use of radio frequency 
• Promoting public safety and homeland security regarding the use of wire communication 
• Other responsibilities pursuant to the 1999 Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) 

The FCC mandates phone services to meet certain standards and requirements to meet these goals. 

Current FCC guidelines provide subscribers with certain rights and services when using telecommunication services in the country, including: 

• Protection against unwanted calling 
• Access to reliable caller ID 
• Improving number portability 
• And more 

What are the benefits of the Federal Communications Commission? 

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the premier U.S. regulatory authority overseeing television, radio, satellite, wire, and broadband services. From breaking up monopolies to enforcing consumer rights and promoting fair competition, the FCC ensures accessible and secure telecommunications, shaping a connected future for all. 

How does Sinch work with the Federal Communications Commission? 

Sinch provides a variety of voice, omnichannel engagement, and collaboration services which are fully compliant with current FCC regulations. We make it easy for any company to achieve high-quality services while maintaining FCC compliance. 

Interested in exploring our full portfolio of products? Get in touch with a Sinch representative today!