Health and Human Services Department, Food and Drug Administration
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, we, or the Agency) is proposing to establish a regulatory category for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and to make related amendments to update the regulatory framework for hearing aids. Specifically, we propose to define OTC hearing aids and establish applicable requirements; amend existing rules for consistency with a new OTC category; repeal the conditions for sale applicable to hearing aids; amend the existing labeling requirements for hearing aids; and update regulations relating to decisions on applications for exemption from Federal preemption that would become obsolete as a result of changes to the hearing aid requirements. This action, if finalized, would more clearly define prescription hearing aids; however, it would not change the classification of existing device types. In creating a regulatory category for OTC hearing aids and amending existing rules, we intend to provide reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness for these devices as well as foster access to, and innovation in, hearing aid technology, thereby protecting and promoting the public health.
Document Headings Document headings vary by document type but may contain the following: the agency or agencies that issued and signed a document the number of the CFR title and the number of each part the document amends, proposes to amend, or is directly related to the agency docket number / agency internal file number the RIN which identifies each regulatory action listed in the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions See the Document Drafting Handbook for more details. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration 21 CFR Parts 800, 801, 808, and 874 [Docket No. FDA-2021-N-0555] RIN 0910-AI21 AGENCY: Food and Drug Administration, HHS. ACTION: Proposed rule. SUMMARY: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA, we, or the Agency) is proposing to establish a regulatory category for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and to make related amendments to update the regulatory framework for hearing aids. Specifically, we propose to define OTC hearing aids and establish applicable requirements; amend existing rules for consistency with a new OTC category; repeal the conditions for sale applicable to hearing aids; amend the existing labeling requirements for hearing aids; and update regulations relating to decisions on applications for exemption from Federal preemption that would become obsolete as a result of changes to the hearing aid requirements. This action, if finalized, would more clearly define prescription hearing aids; however, it would not change the classification of existing device types. In creating a regulatory category for OTC hearing aids and amending existing rules, we intend to provide reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness for these devices as well as foster access to, and innovation in, hearing aid technology, thereby protecting and promoting the public health. DATES: Submit either electronic or written comments on the proposed rule by January 18, 2022. Submit written comments (including recommendations…
Other Federal Register documents from the same docket.
Citation: 86 FR 58150
