The FCC, in a split vote, adopted an Order updating its hearing aid compatibility (HAC) rules for both wireline and wireless handsets. With respect to wireline handsets, the Order (1) revises volume control standards for wireline handsets to provide a more accurate measurement of voice amplification and (2) implements a provision of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act to apply the FCC’s HAC requirements to wireline telephones used with advanced communication services including VoIP. Compliance with these wireline handset provisions must be achieved within two years. Regarding wireless handsets, the Order requires within three years all newly certified HAC wireless handsets to include volume control suitable for consumers with hearing loss.
