The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories.
History[]
It was established by the Communications Act of 1934 and operates as an independent U.S. government agency overseen by Congress. The commission is committed to being a responsive, efficient and effective agency capable of facing the technological and economic opportunities of the new millennium.
Purpose[]
In its work, the agency seeks to capitalize on its competencies in:
- Promoting competition, innovation, and investment in broadband services and facilities;
- Supporting the nation’s economy by ensuring an appropriate competitive framework for the unfolding of the communications revolution;
- Encouraging the highest and best use of spectrum domestically and internationally;
- Revising media regulations so that new technologies flourish alongside diversity and localism;
- Providing leadership in strengthening the defense of the nation’s communications infrastructure.