The Center for Regulatory Effectiveness (CRE) applauds the work of the FCC to provide
access by users of hearing aids to wireless handsets. The action taken by the FCC in conjunction
with the oncoming creation of a new class of hearing aids, Over the Counter Hearing Aids (OTC
HAs), will result in a substantial rejuvenation of the market for hearing aids.
The resultant market will not only present an increased range of choice for consumers but
could also lead to their confusion if they are not provided succinct information from which to
base their decisions. The most significant source of confusion is the difference between a hearing
aid and a PSAP, a personal sound amplification product.
The FCC has the statutory authority to impose reporting and recordkeeping requirements
on the PSAPS.
