PN Seeking Comment on pre-2024 Covered List Limitation

The FCC’s PSHSB and OET propose limiting existing equipment authorizations to prohibit the continued importation and marketing of communications equipment added to the Covered List in 2024 or earlier, while preserving the use and operation of equipment already purchased.

What it does This Public Notice initiates a comment proceeding on applying the authority established in the FCC’s 2025 Equipment Authorization Security Second Report and Order. The proposed limitation would cover equipment authorized before the FCC’s 2022 rules and added to the Covered List by 2024, but not equipment added in 2025 or later. The agencies seek comment on national-security, economic, supply-chain, use-based, and other public-interest considerations. They also propose requiring parties to cease importation and marketing within 30 days after any prohibition becomes effective.

Who it affects The proposal would affect manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, communications providers, consumers, government partners, and holders of existing equipment authorizations. It would not revoke those authorizations or prohibit continued operation of devices already in users’ hands.

Why it matters The proceeding could extend the Covered List regime from blocking new equipment authorizations to restricting the commercial supply of previously authorized equipment. The agencies tentatively find that national-security benefits outweigh economic and supply-chain concerns, noting that Kaspersky-related equipment is already subject to Commerce restrictions and that older covered equipment has not received new authorization since November 11, 2022.

Key dates and numbers

• Released March 27, 2026; comments are due 30 days after Federal Register publication.
• Proposed scope: Covered List additions in 2024 or earlier, authorized before the 2022 rules.
• Proposed cessation period: 30 days after the prohibition’s effective date.
• Proceeding: PS Docket No. 26-72; DA 26-294.