TIA Welcomes FCC Decision to Extend Compliance Timeline for Certifying Telecom Equipment Testing Labs in Foreign Countries

Arlington, Va. (June 16, 2016) – The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading association representing the manufacturers and suppliers of high-tech communications networks, welcomed the decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to extend the transition period for testing labs that certify mobile phones and other radio equipment in some foreign countries by one year, to come into compliance with its accreditation requirements.

“We greatly appreciate the FCC’s response to our members’ concerns on this issue,” said TIA CEO Scott Belcher. “We believe this is a constructive decision that will avoid unnecessary business disruptions, while also providing important guidance to the many technology and testing firms that operate their own labs or use testing services outside the U.S.”

The move follows an announcement from the FCC last summer that as of July 2016, it would stop accepting testing and certifications from labs based in countries that have not yet signed mutual recognition agreements (MRA) with the U.S.  Last year TIA filed a petition with the FCC seeking an extension of time for such labs and more clarity on how they could be re-accredited.

Contact

Ashley Simmons, 703-907-7704, asimmons@tiaonline.org

About TIA

The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) represents manufacturers and suppliers of global communications networks through standards development, policy and advocacy, business opportunities, market intelligence, and events and networking. TIA enhances the business environment for broadband, mobile wireless, information technology, networks, cable, satellite and unified communications. Members' products and services empower communications in every industry and market, including healthcare, education, security, public safety, transportation, government, the military, the environment, and entertainment. Visit tiaonline.org for more details. TIA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and is a proud sponsor of ANSI’s Standards Boost Business campaign. Visit www.standardsboostbusiness.org for details.