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ARTICLE · 13 FEBRUARY 2026

FCC's January Actions Intensify National Security And Foreign Ownership Oversight

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The Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") closed January with multiple actions that collectively increase transparency around foreign ownership and toughen national security-oriented compliance expectations...

United StatesGovernment, Public Sector
Adam S. Hickey
Adam S. Hickey
Timothy J. Keeler
Timothy J. Keeler
Mickey Leibner
Mickey Leibner
Howard W. Waltzman
Howard W. Waltzman
Emily King
Emily King
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The Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) closed January with multiple actions that collectively increase transparency around foreign ownership and toughen national security-oriented compliance expectations—developments that materially affect broadcasters, common carrier wireless licensees, aeronautical licensees, and a broad set of FCC regulated entities with potential foreign ownership exposure. 

On January 29, 2026, the FCC established a new transparency regime that requires many FCC-regulated entities to certify and report if they are owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of a “foreign adversary,”1 and establishes associated disclosures, a consolidated filing system, and enforcement measures. In a companion action, the FCC adopted a Report and Order that clarifies and codifies key aspects of its foreign ownership review under Section 310(b), aiming to streamline filings while preserving robust national security review.

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This Mayer Brown article provides information and comments on legal issues and developments of interest. The foregoing is not a comprehensive treatment of the subject matter covered and is not intended to provide legal advice. Readers should seek specific legal advice before taking any action with respect to the matters discussed herein.

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