FCC rule dropping ASCII requirement for TTY relay takes effect

A Federal Communications Commission rule removing the requirement that TTY-based relay services support the ASCII format took effect Oct. 13, 2026.

What happened: The FCC adopted the change in order FCC 26-56 and published it in the Federal Register on Sept. 10. It applies to TTY-based Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS), the service that lets people who are Deaf, hard of hearing or speech disabled place text telephone calls through a relay operator.

Why it matters: The rule updates technical obligations for relay providers. Most people use newer options such as captioned or IP-based relay, but some still rely on TTY, especially older adults and people in rural areas.

Who it affects: TTY users, relay providers and organizations that support Deaf and hard of hearing people.

What to watch: TTY users who notice changes in how calls connect can contact their relay provider or the FCC's Disability Rights Office.

Source: Federal Register, Sept. 10, 2026, FCC final rule (2026-18478): https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2026-09-10/html/2026-18478.htm