FCC Shuts Down Web Sites

The FCC Web site is no longer accessible (http://www.fcc.gov/shutdown-page.html), citing the government shut-down.

"We regret the disruption, but during the Federal Government-wide shutdown," said a one-page online note at the usual FCC URL, "the FCC is limited to performing duties that are immediately necessary for the safety of life or the protection of property. FCC online systems will not be available until further notice."

The FCC said telecom companies must continue to use its Network Outage Reporting System (NORS), which will remain available during the shutdown fro reports of outages and disruptions.

The FCC said it is not accepting deliveries of supplies or services not necessary "for the safety of life or the protection of property."

In emergencies, broadcast and cable operators can call (202) 418-1122 or email at FCCOPCenter@fcc.gov.

Contributing editor John Eggerton has been an editor and/or writer on media regulation, legislation and policy for over four decades, including covering the FCC, FTC, Congress, the major media trade associations, and the federal courts. In addition to Multichannel News and Broadcasting + Cable, his work has appeared in Radio World, TV Technology, TV Fax, This Week in Consumer Electronics, Variety and the Encyclopedia Britannica.