Regulatory Updates, Events & Insights
Welcome to October’s Washington Laboratories Newsletter!
We’re excited to spotlight Episode One of “The Bruce is Loose at Washington Labs,” where Bruce Archambeault, PhD, unpacks the fundamentals of induction in his signature engaging style. Plus, explore key FCC and ISED updates shaping the wireless and compliance landscape this month.
In This Issue:
- Featured Video: Bruce on Induction (Ep. 1)
- FCC & ISED Regulatory Highlights
- ISED Draft RSS-252 for ITS On-Board Units
- FCC Infrastructure Buildout & Rule Deletions
- Industry News: FCC Shutdown, Contraband Phone NPRM
FEATURED VIDEO: THE BRUCE IS LOOSE at Washington Labs!
EPISODE ONE: DO YOU FEEL LUCKY?
Kicking off our EMC series, Bruce Archambeault, explains the importance of addressing induction. We’re proud of our collaboration with Bruce for this series. Be sure to subscribe to the Washington Labs YouTube channel for more EMC tips. Also, check out the preview on Instagram: Instagram Reel
ISED Canada
Draft RSS-252 (Issue 3) – ITS On-Board Units
ISED Canada is seeking comments on a draft revision of RSS-252 for Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) On-Board Units operating in the 5895–5925 MHz band. The draft introduces the following updates:
- Revised channel allocations for improved spectral efficiency
- Updated power limits and emission masks
- Clarified requirements for interference mitigation and test procedures
Comment deadline: November 10, 2025 View Draft RSS-252 (Issue 3)
FCC Updates
Infrastructure Buildout Strategy
The FCC has proposed new measures to streamline wireless infrastructure deployment, aiming to reduce local approval delays and encourage alternative dispute resolution in siting and permitting cases.
These steps align with the agency’s broader strategy to accelerate 5G and broadband coverage nationwide. The proposal underscores the Commission’s ongoing commitment to closing connectivity gaps across rural and urban regions alike. View FCC Public Notice
“Delete, Delete, Delete” Initiative
As part of its regulatory modernization effort, the FCC plans to remove approximately 400 obsolete or redundant wireless rules under Title 47. This cleanup seeks to simplify compliance, reduce confusion, and improve transparency across the Commission’s rulebase. This initiative is part of Chairwoman Rosenworcel’s continued efforts to modernize and declutter legacy regulatory code. Read FCC Announcement
Enforcement Actions: T-Mobile Settlement
The FCC reached a settlement with T-Mobile related to pre-authorization device marketing violations.
In parallel, new Knowledge Database (KDB) guidance clarifies ownership and reporting timelines for recognized test laboratories and TCBs. The Commission continues to emphasize market accountability and transparent lab relationships under its equipment authorization framework. View KDB Guidance
https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-405937A1.pdf
FCC Operations During Shutdown (October 1, 2025)
Due to a lapse in federal appropriations, the FCC suspended most non-critical operations, including licensing, complaint processing, and equipment authorization reviews.
Essential public safety and spectrum management activities continued under limited staffing until normal operations resumed. Read FCC Shutdown Notice
Stay Informed
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Have questions about how these updates could affect your products or testing plans?
Our engineers and regulatory specialists are here to help you interpret the latest FCC and ISED developments — and plan your compliance strategy with confidence.
