What FCC rules affect small ISPs and tech businesses in 2026?

FCC's 2026 small-business agenda includes net-neutrality reinstatement litigation (the 2024 Safeguarding and Securing the Open Internet Order was stayed by the Sixth Circuit in January 2025), broadband data collection (BDC) filings for any facilities-based broadband provider, Robocall mitigation database registration for voice providers, and continued attention to digital discrimination rules under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

For small ISPs (under 100,000 subscribers): the BDC filing is twice yearly with FCC-mandated speed test methodology; CPNI annual certification is due March 1; STIR/SHAKEN call authentication for voice services; and emergency-alert system participation requirements. The FCC Small Business Center at fcc.gov publishes plain-language guides.

For tech businesses generally outside the telecom space: the FTC, not the FCC, is the primary regulator for consumer-facing tech. FCC rules touch tech when you operate radios (unlicensed device certification under Part 15), provide voice or messaging services (CPNI, STIR/SHAKEN), or sell devices that import RF emitters (equipment authorization). The "Cyber Trust Mark" voluntary IoT labeling program launched in 2024–2025.

Smaller operators should also watch state PUC rules — many states regulate VoIP, broadband privacy, and pole attachments more aggressively than the FCC.