Hearing Aids and Cell Phones

The FCC is looking for consumer comments on its rules related to hearing aid compatible (HAC) cell phones. Since 2008, the agency has obligated wireless carriers and handset manufacturers to make and sell a certain percentage of compatible handsets. The FCC also requires a detailed annual report on the devices which have been offered during the previous year. The agency is now revisiting these rules to look at whether they are providing the help for the deaf that they are intended to provide. One concern is that, under the current rules, device that works in conjunction with hearing aids do not count for HAC compliance. So, the FCC wants to know:

• Are the FCC's HAC rules effectively and efficiently resulting in improved HAC handset availability with a wide range of features?
• Are the special compliance circumstances of smaller carriers being appropriately handled?
• Is the system effectively and efficiently gathering needed HAC information and disseminating it to those who need it?
• Are point of sale disclosure and testing requirements effective and useful?
• Do wireless headsets create any special problems?
• Are the Commission’s rules stimulating innovation and investment in HAC technology?

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