FCC Extends Comment Deadline: Rulemaking on Closed Captioning of Internet Protocol-Delivered Video Programming

August 2013 — The FCC released an Order in the Matter of Closed Captioning of Internet Protocol-Delivered Video Programming: Implementation of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 [MB Docket No. 11-154]. The Order extends the comment deadline for the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking released on June 14, 2013, wherein the FCC requested comments on requirements for the synchronization of closed captions and video display in addition to the closed caption requirements for DVD and Blu-Ray players that “do not render or pass through closed captions.” While the initial comment dates were set for September 3, 2013 for comments and September 30, 2013 for reply comments, the FCC has acquiesced to consumer groups’ request for a 60 day extension for comments with reply comments due 30 days thereafter.  In their request, Telecommunications for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and other consumer groups noted that additional time was needed to confer “on issues raised in the FNPRM” and “retain pro bono counsel to file comments and reply comments on their behalf.”