USA - Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain through the Equipment Authorization Program

​The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on additional measures to strengthen the security and integrity of its equipment authorization program.

The proposal includes new requirements and restrictions related to Covered List equipment, such as enhanced supply chain transparency through hardware and software bills of materials (HBOM/SBOM), measures to address white-labeling practices, certification requirements for devices in Covered List sectors, and further limits on equipment containing Covered List components or software.

The FCC is also proposing reforms to equipment authorization, importation, marketing, and database management processes, including streamlined revocation procedures, registration of Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC) devices, term limits on equipment authorizations, and a requirement for FCC-certified equipment to have a U.S.-based liable party.