September 20, 2026 to September 26, 2026

This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions and other government-related news concerning ICT, cloud computing, digital infrastructure, social media platforms, digital privacy, AI, cybersecurity, blockchain, Web3 and cryptocurrencies. Once a week, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Want to track other GR news in adjacent industries? Don't miss this week's updates in Finance and Defence. Also consider subscribing to our ICT & Cybersecurity - Ottawa edition covering critical GR news north of the border.

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🇺🇸 Federal Government News
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

Federal Government News

FCC Reviews Information Collection for 4.9 GHz Band Manager Selection Process

The Federal Communications Commission is soliciting public and agency comments on a proposed information collection tied to the 4.9 GHz Band Manager Selection Process, citing the framework established in the WP Docket No. 07-100 Seventh and Eighth Reports and Orders. The Band Manager is intended to coordinate national use of 4.9 GHz spectrum, serving public safety organizations and integrating with advanced technologies, including 5G solutions for emergency communications. Ten respondents are expected to provide a one-time submission at a cost of 120 hours but with no additional annual costs. The FCC's request for comments specifically asks for feedback on the necessity, effectiveness, and burden of the collection, with an emphasis on reductions for small businesses. Written responses are due by November 23, 2026.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

USITC Initiates Investigation into Certain DRAM Devices and Related Products

The U.S. International Trade Commission has instituted an investigation under Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 regarding complaints filed by Netlist, Inc. of Irvine, California, relating to imports and domestic activities concerning DDR5 DRAM products. The complaint alleges infringement of four U.S. patents (10,025,731; 10,217,523; 12,373,366; and 12,675,407) by companies including Micron Technology, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Lenovo Group, and Super Micro Computer. Netlist is seeking exclusion and cease and desist orders. Respondents are instructed to reply to both the complaint and the notice of investigation within 20 days or risk default. The investigation will address patent infringement and the existence of a domestic industry as required by statute.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

FCC Submits Political and Public File Information Collection for OMB Review

The FCC has submitted an information collection to the Office of Management and Budget under OMB Control Number 3060-0214, covering requirements for political files and public inspection files as outlined in 47 CFR 73.3526, 73.3527, 73.1212, 73.1943, and related regulations. Broadcasters and cable operators must maintain detailed records of requests for airtime involving candidates or political matters, along with various public inspection requirements and online disclosure of such records. These obligations involve over 24,000 entities and an aggregate annual burden exceeding 2 million hours. The FCC specifically invites feedback on further burden reduction for small businesses.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

FCC Reviews E911 Compliance and NET 911 Act Information Collection Requirements

Continuing requirements under the Electronic 911 (E911) system for interconnected VoIP providers are under review by the FCC as part of OMB Control Number 3060-1085, with comments due by November 23, 2026. The collection pertains to location registration, provision of automatic location information, customer notification, and recordkeeping for providers to maintain E911 functionality. Section 506 of the RAY BAUM’S Act and NET 911 Act requirements extend to automated dispatchable location and notification updates, with the FCC enabling flexibility in compliance based on technological feasibility. The ongoing collection aims to ensure reliability of 911 and E911 services regardless of communication platform.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

FCC Continues Review of Spectrum Incentive Auction Reporting and Notification Requirements

The FCC is accepting comments until November 23, 2026, on the extension of information collection requirements for the 'Expanding the Economic and Innovation Opportunities of Spectrum Through Incentive Auctions' order, as per OMB Control Number 3060-1180. Entities holding 600 MHz licenses must report notifications, modifications, license renewals, and coordinate operations with relevant observatories. Obligations are designed to minimize interference, provide compliance oversight, and allow for flexible spectrum use across both commercial and non-commercial service offerings. The FCC estimates an annual burden of 5,198 hours for 407 respondents representing a variety of business and government entities.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

What We're Reading This Week

• Palo Alto Networks unveils AI-powered cybersecurity service using Claude, GPT models: Palo Alto Networks launched a new cybersecurity platform based on large language models for advanced threat detection.
• US air traffic vulnerabilities exposed by old computers, severed cables and stalled upgrades: Infrastructure and systems vulnerabilities in U.S. air traffic networks were revealed by major failures and delays.
• Meta data center boosts Alberta appeal for hyperscalers, Capital Power says: The launch of a Meta data center is cited as driving growth in Alberta's hyperscaler market, according to Capital Power.
• From smart glasses to AI pins, privacy fears challenge tech's next big bet: Next-generation wearable devices prompt widespread privacy concerns among users and policymakers.
• Greece proposes European Spectrum Union to raise billions for EU budget from 6G mobile: Greece has put forward a proposal for an EU-wide spectrum union aimed at capturing 6G revenues for the European budget.
• Victoria proposes mandating new data centres source their own green power: Victoria, Australia, is considering requirements for new data centers to secure independent sources of green electricity.
• Telecoms networks disrupted in Tigray as Ethiopia's military cites major losses by rebels: Reports detail widespread telecom outages in Ethiopia's Tigray region amid renewed conflict.
• Video: Opinion | Are the Current Laws Enough to Regulate A.I.?: A discussion from The New York Times examines legal sufficiency for artificial intelligence regulation.

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