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Why we should care about Net Neutrality

Business VoIP Editor — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:26:59 +0000

Posted By AVAD Business Editor on November 19, 2009

I came across a great article on Broadsoft's blog about Net Neutrality. There is a huge power struggle going on between the companies that provide internet service and companies that provide services that require the internet.

Voice over IP (VoIP) is just one of the thousands of services that require an internet connection.

One of the biggest issues being contested is the ability of internet service providers to favor their own content or limit access to content based on type. For example, Comcast, one of the leading internet service providers also provides internet phone service or VoIP, without a truely nuetral internet, Comcast would be able to block other VoIP Providers such as Vonage.

Allowing internet service providers to limit consumers access to certain types of content, or favor their own brands would have a chilling effect on our entire economy.

For those of you who are not familiar with Broadsoft, BroadSoft is the leading, worldwide innovator of Voice over IP (VoIP) applications that is transforming how people connect, communicate and collaborate.

FCC: Telco's Must Port Phone Numbers in 1 Day

Business VoIP Editor — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 20:36:10 +0000

Hosted VoIP Legislation News

Posted By: AVAD Technologies, VoIP Provider, Small Business Editor on 2009-06-03

A new mandate from the FCC requires landline, wireless and most Voice over IP (VoIP Providers) transfer or port phone numbers to new carriers within 1 day, if requested by the customer.

The current rule gives carriers up to 4 days to complete this task. However, smaller carriers will still have up to 15-months.

Read Full Article Text

New FCC Rules Ensure No Repeat of Sun Rocket Sudden Shut Down

Business VoIP Editor — Wed, 13 May 2009 20:39:06 +0000

When VoIP provider SunRocket unexpectedly closed its doors in 2007, many customers were not aware of the closure until they picked up the phone and did not hear a dial tone.

In an effort to prevent a similar situation, the Federal Communications Commission on Wednesday approved a rule that would require failing VoIP providers to give reasonable notice to customers and regulatory officials before they shut down.

The commission also approved a rule requiring phone providers to provide number portability within one business day instead of four.

The FCC did not specify how far in advance a VoIP provider would have to provide this notification except to say that it should be done in a reasonable amount of time.

"These requirements do not strike me as burdensome," acting Chairman Michael Copps said during the commission's monthly open meeting.

"More people will switch to VoIP as we push broadband around the country" so it's imperative that the system is secure, said Democratic Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein.

It is also a serious public safety matter, he said, if a user needs to dial 911 and finds themselves unexpectedly without service.

Republican Commissioner Robert McDowell, who subscribed to a VoIP provider that suddenly closed up shop three years ago, said the new rule "gives consumers a reasonable opportunity to switch providers."

The commissioners also approved a rule requiring landline, wireless, and certain VoIP providers to switch customers' phone numbers to another provider within one business day rather than the current four day requirement.

The rule will now be handed over to the North American Numbering Council (NANC), a federal advisory committee that advises the FCC on numbering issues, which will provide its input on the rule within 90 days.

After the NANC report is received, carriers will have nine months to comply. Smaller carriers will have 15 months.

"While the wireless industry has adopted a standard 2.5 hour porting interval for wireless-to-wireless ports voluntarily, thereby avoiding most opportunity for mischief, there has been no such industry-wide voluntary interval for wireline-to-wireline and intermodal ports," Copps said. "Thus, the Commission was compelled to implement a mandatory interval so that consumers of all voice services can realize the true benefits intended by local number portability."

The mischief referred to by Copps included providers trying to illegally lure customers back with promises of lower rates.

Update: Truth in Caller ID Act of 2009

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:28:31 +0000

Date: February 4, 2009

By: AVAD Administrator

Read the full text of the Update to the Truth in Caller ID Act of 2009 GovTrac.us is a great site that I use to track bills that relate to the Telecommunications industry. It has links to information about your local representatives as well as YouTube videos by members of Congress. You can sign up for an account and set up RSS feeds to track almost any piece of legislation.

NET 911 Improvement Act of 2008

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 15:16:13 +0000

One Hundred Tenth Congress

of the

United States of America

AT THE SECOND SESSION Begun and held at the City of Washington on Thursday, the third day of January, two thousand and eight An Act To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the `New and Emerging Technologies 911 Improvement Act of 2008' or the `NET 911 Improvement Act of 2008'.

TITLE I--911 SERVICES AND IP-ENABLED VOICE SERVICE PROVIDERS

SEC. 101. DUTY TO PROVIDE 911 AND ENHANCED 911 SERVICE.

The Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 is amended--

`SEC. 6. DUTY TO PROVIDE 9-1-1 AND ENHANCED 9-1-1 SERVICE.

`(a) Duties- It shall be the duty of each IP-enabled voice service provider to provide 9-1-1 service and enhanced 9-1-1 service to its subscribers in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Communications Commission, as in effect on the date of enactment of the New and Emerging Technologies 911 Improvement Act of 2008 and as such requirements may be modified by the Commission from time to time.

`(b) Parity for IP-Enabled Voice Service Providers- An IP-enabled voice service provider that seeks capabilities to provide 9-1-1 and enhanced 9-1-1 service from an entity with ownership or control over such capabilities, to comply with its obligations under subsection (a), shall, for the exclusive purpose of complying with such obligations, have a right of access to such capabilities, including interconnection, to provide 9-1-1 and enhanced 9-1-1 service on the same rates, terms, and conditions that are provided to a provider of commercial mobile service (as such term is defined in section 332(d) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 332(d))), subject to such regulations as the Commission prescribes under subsection (c).

`(c) Regulations- The Commission--

`(d) Delegation of Enforcement to State Commissions- The Commission may delegate authority to enforce the regulations issued under subsection (c) to State commissions or other State or local agencies or programs with jurisdiction over emergency communications. Nothing in this section is intended to alter the authority of State commissions or other State or local agencies with jurisdiction over emergency communications, provided that the exercise of such authority is not inconsistent with Federal law or Commission requirements.

`(e) Implementation-

`(f) State Authority Over Fees-

`(g) Availability of PSAP Information- The Commission may compile a list of public safety answering point contact information, contact information for providers of selective routers, testing procedures, classes and types of services supported by public safety answering points, and other information concerning 9-1-1 and enhanced 9-1-1 elements, for the purpose of assisting IP-enabled voice service providers in complying with this section, and may make any portion of such information available to telecommunications carriers, wireless carriers, IP-enabled voice service providers, other emergency service providers, or the vendors to or agents of any such carriers or providers, if such availability would improve public safety.

`(h) Development of standards- The Commission shall work cooperatively with public safety organizations, industry participants, and the E-911 Implementation Coordination Office to develop best practices that promote consistency, where appropriate, including procedures for--

`(i) Rule of Construction- Nothing in the New and Emerging Technologies 911 Improvement Act of 2008 shall be construed as altering, delaying, or otherwise limiting the ability of the Commission to enforce the Federal actions taken or rules adopted obligating an IP-enabled voice service provider to provide 9-1-1 or enhanced 9-1-1 service as of the date of enactment of the New and Emerging Technologies 911 Improvement Act of 2008.'; and

SEC. 102. MIGRATION TO IP-ENABLED EMERGENCY NETWORK.

Section 158 of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act (47 U.S.C. 942) is amended--

`(d) Migration Plan Required-

TITLE II--PARITY OF PROTECTION

SEC. 201. LIABILITY.

(a) Amendments- Section 4 of the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 (47 U.S.C. 615a) is amended--

(b) Definition- Section 7 of the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 (as redesignated by section 101(1) of this Act) is further amended by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:

TITLE III--AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE CUSTOMER INFORMATION FOR 911 PURPOSES

SEC. 301. AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE CUSTOMER INFORMATION.

Section 222 of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 222) is amended--

Speaker of the House of Representatives. Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate.

Universal Service Reform, Accountability, and Efficiency Act of 2008

Business VoIP Editor — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:00:45 +0000

6/24/2008--Introduced.

Universal Service Reform, Accountability, and Efficiency Act of 2008 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to revise the policies concerning the principles for the advancement of universal service to require that the policies be based on the principles of affordability, efficiency, certain contribution and distribution requirements, transparency, consumer focus, and access to advanced telecommunications services for schools, libraries, and rural health care providers. Requires that universal service support be used solely to provide voice (including IP-enabled voice) communications in high cost areas and to low-income households. Authorizes the FCC to select any contribution mechanism that is consistent with the above principles and that: View Full Bill Opencongress.org (1) is based exclusively on providing voice communications service; (2) does not assess broadband transmission or Internet access services; and (3) includes a universal service contribution low-income exemption. Requires that universal service support decline over time. Allows, after this Act's auction, only eligible telecommunications providers to receive support for service in high cost areas. Prohibits the receipt of support for services in high cost areas having a high percentage of high income households. Prohibits a state from assessing interstate services in order to fund a state's universal service program. Requires a reverse auction plan in which each auction winner has the privileges and obligations of a provider-of-last-resort to be used to distribute universal service support for voice communications service in high cost areas. Provides for subsequent auctions, including transitioning away from subsidizing a provider-of-last-resort. Requires the FCC to: (1) determine whether the goals of universal service are being achieved in an economically efficient way; (2) strengthen the universal service program's oversight structure; (3) provide the FCC's Inspector General with resources to conduct regular and thorough audits; (4) permanently bar anyone committing universal service fraud from receiving future subsidies; and (5) develop increased penalties for service fund wrongdoing.

Senate Passes Bill to Ensure VoIP is E-911 Compliant

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:59:14 +0000

Congress is trying to push through rules of the road for enhanced 911 service on Internet-protocol-enabled voice services before turning its attentions to getting re-elected.

The Senate Thursday passed by unanimous consent its version of a bill that would give cable operators and other Internet-phone-service providers the same rights of interconnection as traditional 911 service to ensure that 911 calls reach a local operator and that the operator can also determine the source of the emergency call — enhanced 911 service — as well as similar liability relief for those taking the calls. It would also call for the drawing up of a plan for a national IP-enabled emergency network for “citizen-activated” emergencies.

The National Cable & Telecommunications Association supported the bill, saying in a letter to Senate leaders in February, “When consumers dial 911 for emergency service, they should do so with confidence that their calls for help will be answered without regard to who provides their phone service or what technology they employ.” The bill, H.R. 3403, is a compromise version of a similar bill that passed in the House. But with some amendments added on the Senate side, it now has to go back to the House for its approval, which is expected, various senators and staffers said.

Senate Commerce Committee chairman Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) said they have been working with House members and that the bill should pass quickly. “We expect the House to act expeditiously so that this bill can become law,” he added, “allowing our 911 system to continue to save lives and ensuring that individuals can always call for help regardless of the underlying technology they use.”

The Federal Communications Commission paved the way for e911 service in 2005 with mandates that voice-over-IP providers deliver 911 service that linked to local operators after hearing from a parade of witnesses who talked of children dying and family members put at risk after calls to VoIP e911 services that did not do so.

If you would like to have a Business VoIP Specialist contact you, please complete the following form. Or, you may call (800) 733-4136.

House Passes Spy Bill; Senate Expected to Follow

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 13:48:28 +0000

June 21, 2008 The House, in an overwhelming bipartisan vote, yesterday approved a sweeping new surveillance law that extends the government’s eavesdropping capability and effectively would shield telecommunications companies from lawsuits for cooperating with the Bush administration’s warrantless wiretapping program. Ending a year-long battle with President Bush, the House passed, by a 293 to 129 vote, an overhaul of the 1978 Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). The bill provides a legal avenue for AT&T, Verizon Communications and other telecommunications firms to ward off about 40 lawsuits alleging that they violated customers’ privacy by helping the government conduct a warrantless spying program after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Before the vote, Bush said the plan, which is expected to clear the Senate next week, would help thwart new terrorist attacks. “It’s vital that our intelligence community has the ability to learn who the terrorists are talking to, what they’re saying and what they are planning,” he said. Only one Republican opposed the bill, but Democrats were sharply divided. And the legislation presented a fresh foreign policy dilemma for Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.). The party’s presumptive presidential nominee announced his support of the FISA bill despite active opposition to it from the liberal activist base that has financially fueled his campaign. “Given the legitimate threats we face, providing effective intelligence collection tools with appropriate safeguards is too important to delay. So I support the compromise, but do so with a firm pledge that as President, I will carefully monitor the program,” Obama said in a statement. Obama had previously opposed a different Senate version, which passed on Feb. 12, because it gave “blanket immunity” to the telecommunications companies, according to a statement issued at the time. Sen. John McCain (Ariz.), the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, supports the FISA legislation. Democrats have resisted passing a new FISA law since last summer and implemented a temporary act that expired in August. They demanded more information about the warrantless wiretapping program that the administration pursued for years after the terrorist attacks. But after four months of negotiations, the bill gives intelligence agencies most of what they had been seeking. The agreement gives telecom companies the ability to have privacy lawsuits thrown out if they demonstrate to a federal judge that they received written assurance from the Bush administration that the spying was legal. House GOP leaders and opponents of the legislation consider the new court review a formality that will lead to dismissal of the suits. The bill requires approval by the secret FISA court of procedures for intercepting foreigners’ e-mails and telephone calls. Spying on U.S. citizens, including those overseas, would require individual warrants from the same court. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said she supported the bill primarily because it rejects Bush’s argument that a wartime chief executive has the “inherent authority” to conduct some surveillance activity he considers necessary to fight terrorism. It restores the legal notion that the FISA law is the exclusive rule on government spying.

Missouri Legis: Avoid VoIP Tax

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 17:42:24 +0000

IPI to Missouri State Legislature: Avoid Regulation and Taxation of VoIP

The Show Me State must allow VoIP technology to develop and flourish throughout the state without regulatory interference, said the Institute for Policy Innovation in testimony to the Missouri legislature today.

VoIP is a compelling application which will encourage economic advancement, job creation and income growth as it is a "better, cheaper, and faster" vehicle for voice communications. "These sorts of technology innovations are the prime drivers of economic growth because they increase productivity of businesses and enterprises large and small," said IPI President Tom Giovanetti.

Missouri must resist the urge to regulate. The Missouri Public Utilities Commission is showing a strong inclination toward regulation of the VoIP market, and throughout the recent report from the VoIP Task Force, the Commission expresses distrust in markets and competition. "Missouri must show bold leadership, not by being the first state to attempt to tax and regulate an exciting new technology, but rather by reining in the regulators," said Giovanetti.

It is vital to prevent discriminatory treatment of any technology or application. Legislators should not choose winners or losers in the communications sector. It makes no sense to tax the risk-taking companies who are creating jobs by investing and building out infrastructure in Missouri. "We ought to be praising and rewarding the facilities-based providers who are doing the favor of building out a critical broadband infrastructure using their own risk capital," said Bartlett Cleland, Director of the IPI Center for Technology Freedom.

Those who feed from the public trough are the same ones advocating regulation and taxation. Many of the smaller and rural telecom providers that support regulation and taxation of VoIP are also the companies whose entire business models are dependent upon being recipients of public subsidies in the form of universal service fees. These companies already receive public assistance, and are trying to slow their competitors' adoption of exciting technology by loading it with new taxation and regulation.

A disproportionate tax burden already weighs upon communications. The only industries that bear a heavier tax burden are cigarettes and alcohol. Communications consumers' final bills are often a whopping 40 to 50% taxes and fees. "These are dishonest, hidden taxes," said Cleland, "It makes no sense for one of our most critical industries to be bearing such an inordinate tax burden."

If Missouri wants to be competitive in the communications market and to entice new and technologically advanced infrastructure, the state should relax regulation rather than increase it. Cleland concluded by asking: "Missouri now has the opportunity to add marketplace power alongside historic mule power in state leadership history, but will it?"

The Telecommunications Act of 1996

Business VoIP Editor — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 09:57:18 +0000

The Telecommunications Act of 1996 is the first major overhaul of telecommunications law in almost 62 years. The goal of this new law is to let anyone enter any communications business -- to let any communications business compete in any market against any other. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 has the potential to change the way we work, live and learn. It will affect telephone service -- local and long distance, cable programming and other video services, broadcast services and services provided to schools. The Federal Communications Commission has a tremendous role to play in creating fair rules for this new era of competition. At this Internet site, we will provide information about the FCC's role in implementing this new law, how you can get involved and how these changes might impact you. This page will include information listing the proceedings the FCC will complete to open up local phone markets, increase competition in long distance and other steps. You will find copies of news releases summarizing action, announcements of meetings where these items will be discussed, and charts describing the work ahead of us and where (within the FCC) and when it will be completed. Please note: some of the links on this page lead to resources outside the FCC. The presence of these links should not be taken as an endorsement by the FCC of these sites or their content. For more information about the referenced documents, contact the person listed on the document. Please let us know what topics most interest you or where you have questions about this new law. We will soon begin to post a series of Questions & Answers with Commission officials designed to answer your questions.

Text of the Act

The FCC maintains ASCII Text and Adobe Acrobat versions (128 pages) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, as well as WordPerfect and Adobe Acrobat versions (335 pages) of the completely updated Communications Act of 1934, as amended by the 1996 Act. The official citation for the new Act is: Telecommunications Act of 1996, Pub. LA. No. 104-104, 110 Stat. 56 (1996). The official printed slip law is available from the Government Printing Office.

Materials from the FCC

Revised schedule of proceedings to implement the Act. This implementation schedule is an outline of statutory requirements pursuant to the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and is a guide to the actions taken by the FCC to implement the Act. The schedule is divided into five sections. The first section identifies the specific issues and the bureau handling those issues. The second section contains the statutory language and page references to S. Rept. 230, 104th Cong. 2nd Sess. (1996). The third section identifies the FCC proceeding to implement the statutory requirement including the bureau docket number and the FCC number of the documents released related to the proceeding. The fourth and fifth sections contain information regarding the timetable and status of the proceeding. (Revised January 13, 1997)
The Report on FCC Implementation of Telecommunications Act of 1996 is a cumulative report of all actions taken since February 8, 1996, by the FCC to implement the Act. This report has two sections: (1) Commission Actions and (2) Facilitating Public Information.
Transcript of Proceedings from the FCC Telemedical Advisory Committee meeting on September 17, 1996 [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ].
Transcript of Proceedings from the FCC Telemedical Advisory Committee meeting on July 11, 1996 [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ].
Chairman Hundt's Statement and related Report on the FCC Implementation of the Telecommunications Act presented to the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance, Committee on Commerce of the U.S. House of Representatives on July 18, 1996.
Transcript of Proceedings from the FCC Telemedical Advisory Committee meeting on June 12, 1996 [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ].
Telecommunications and Health Care Advisory Committee Members Announced (Released 6-5-96)
Nominations Accepted for the Telecommunications and Health Care Advisory Committee to Assist Implementation of the Telecommunications Act. (Released 4-25-96)
Chairman Hundt Announces Appointment of Solomon Trujillo as Interim Chairman of the Telecommunications Development Fund
Telecommunications Development Fund Request for Board of Directors Nominations
Suggestions solicited for improving FCC services and procedures
Improving Commission Processes, Notice of Inquiry, (PP Docket No. 96-17) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Statements by FCC Chairman Hundt and Commissioners Quello, Barrett, Ness, and Chong praising passage of the Act. (February 8, 1996)
21 FCC Proposals to "Reinvent" the Agency, Adopted By the Act. (February 8, 1996)

FCC Proceedings to Implement the Act

Cable Services Bureau

Order in the Matter of Implementation of Section 703(e) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Amendment of the Commission's Rules and Policies Governing Pole Attachments (CS Docket No. 97-151, FCC 98-20) (February 6, 1998). [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rule Making in the Matter of Implementation of Section 703(e) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Amendment of the Commission's Rules and Policies Governing Pole Attachments (CS Docket No. 97-151, FCC 97-234) (August 12, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rule Making in the Matter of Amendment of Rules and Policies Governing Pole Attachments (CS Docket No. 97-98, FCC 97-94) (March 14, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
In the Matter of Implementation of Section 305 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 NPRM on Closed Captioning and Video Description of Video Programming, Video Programming Accessibility (MM Docket No. 95-176) (January 17, 1997)(Comment Date: February 28, 1997, Reply Comment Date: March 24, 1997) [ News Releases | Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Order in matter of Implementation of Section 703 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Amendments and Additions to the Commissions Rules Governing Pole Attachments (CS Docket No. 96-166) (August 6, 1996) [ News Releases | Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Report & Order, Memorandum & Opinion & Order, and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the matter of Preemption of Local Zoning Regulation of Satellite Earth Stations; Implementation of Section 207 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, restrictions on Over-the Air Reception Devices: Television Broadcast Service & Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service (IB Docket 95-59, CS Docket No. 96-83) (August 6, 1996) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
First Order on Reconsideration in the matter of Implementation of Section 302 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Open Video Systems (CS Docket No. 96-46) (July 23, 1996) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Report & Order on Implementation of Section 301(j) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Aggregation of Equipment Costs By Cable Operators (CS Docket No. 96-57) (June 7, 1996) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Order on Implementation of Section 302 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Open Video Systems (CS Docket No. 96-46) (June 7, 1996) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Second Report & Order on Implementation of Section 302 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Open Video Systems (CS Docket No. 96-46) (June 3, 1996) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Order on Implementation of Section 301(d) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Definition of Markets for purposes of the Cable Television Mandatory Television Broadcast Signal Carriage Rules (CS Docket No. 95-178) (May 24, 1996) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Implementation of Sections 207 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Restrictions on Over-the-Air Reception Devices: Television Broadcast And MultiChannel Multipoint distribution Service. (CS Docket No. 96-83) (April 4, 1996) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Order on Implementation of Sections 202(f), 202(i) and 301(i) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Cable Television Antitrafficking, Network Television, and MMDS/SMATV Cross ownership Rules (CS Docket No. 96-56) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Commission will not enforce or implement section 505 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 "Scrambling of Sexually Explicit Adult Video Service Programming" as result of court order. [ Public Notice ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to Implement Section 302 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 Open Video Systems, Telephone Company-Cable Television Cross Ownership Rules [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Implementation of Section 505 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Scrambling of Explicit Adult Video Service Programming (CS Docket No. 96-40) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Extension of the comment period for the Notice of Inquiry on closed captioning and video description, so that parties have an opportunity to comment on the Telecom Act provisions affecting these issues. (February 27, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order extending time for cable operators to file their annual equipment forms, because Telecom Act permits cable operators to aggregate equipment costs, and requires the FCC to modify its rules and forms within 120 days of enactment. (February 27, 1996) [ text version | WordPerfect Version ]

Common Carrier Bureau

CRANDALL DECLARATION. The United States Telecom Association (USTA) filed reply comments as requested by the Commission's Public Notice in CC Docket No. 96-98 inviting comment on issues raised in conjunction with the use of unbundled network elements to provide exchange access service.(May 14, 2001) [ Text | Word97 ]
NEWS RELEASE. Commission Limits Competitive Local Phone Carriers Ability to File Tariffs, (April 27, 2001 )
ORDER ON REMAND AND REPORT AND ORDER. Proper treatment for purposes of intercarrier compensation of telecommunications traffic delivered to Internet service providers (ISPs), (April 27, 2001 ) [ Text | Word97 | Acrobat]
UNBUNDLED NETWORK ELEMENTS. Motion granted for extension of time for filing comments and reply comments, (April 23, 2001 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
PLEADING CYCLE ESTABLISHED FOR COMMENTS ON JOINT PETITION OF BELLSOUTH, SBC AND VERIZON. Joint Petition asking the Commission to find that high-capacity loops and dedicated transport should not be subject to mandatory unbundling, (April 10, 2001 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
MEMORANDUM OPINION AND ORDER. The State Of New York Department of Public Service Request for the Release of a New Area Code to Provide Relief for the 716 Numbering Plan Area, (March 20, 2001 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
NUMBERING RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION. Petitions for additional delegated authority to implement numbering resource optimization strategies, (March 14, 2001 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
ORDER CLARIFICATION. Deployment of Wireline Services Offering Advanced Telecommunications Capability, (February 23, 2001 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
NUMBERING RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION. Petitions for Expedited Decision for Additional Delegated Authority to Implement Numbering Conservation Measures, (February 14, 2001 )1 [ Text | Word97 ]
DEPLOYMENT OF WIRELINE SERVICES OFFERING ADVANCED TELECOMMUNICATIONS CAPABILITY. (January 19, 2001 ) [ Text | Word97 | Acrobat ]
NUMBERING RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION. Petition for Declaratory Ruling and Request For Expedited Action on the July 15, 1997 Order of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Regarding Area Codes 412, 610, 215, and 717, (December 29, 2000 ), [ Text | Word97 ]
UNE COMBINATIONS. Comments requested on Worldcom petition for waiver of the supplemental order clarification, (September 18, 2000 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
DEPLOYMENT OF WIRELINE SERVICES OFFERING ADVANCED TELECOMMUNICATIONS CAPABILITY, (August 10, 2000 ), [ Text | Word97 ]
RELIEF FOR THE 716 NUMBERING PLAN AREA, Common Carrier Bureau seeks comment on the request of the State of New York Department of Public Service (NYDPS) for the release of a new area code, (August 9, 2000 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
NEWS RELEASE. FCC issues report on the availability of high-speed and advanced telecommunications services, (August 3, 2000 )
NEWS RELEASE. FCC mandates nationwide implementation of 711 access to telecommunications relay services (TRS), (July 21, 2000 )
NEWS RELEASE. FCC revises telecommunications relay service rules to improve access to telephone service for people with hearing and speech disabilities, (February 17, 2000 )
NEWS RELEASE. FCC issues inquiry for its second report on advanced telecommunications capability, (February 17, 2000 )
NUMBERING RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION. Petitions for additional delegated authority to implement numbering resource optimization strategies filed by state utility regulatory commissions. (July 20, 2000 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
ORDER ON RECONSIDERATION. Deaveraged Rate Zones for Unbundled Network Elements, (April 6, 2000 ), [ Text | Word97 ]
ORDER. Deployment of Wireline Services Offering Advanced Telecommunications Capability, (December 9, 1999 ) [ Text | Word97 ]
ORDER. Response to the Supreme Court's January 1999 decision that directs us to reevaluate the unbundling obligations of section 251 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (1996 Act). (November 8, 1999 ) [ Text | Word97 | Acrobat]
NEWS RELEASE. FCC releases rules that will give people with disabilities more access to telecommunications, (September 29, 1999 )
NEWS RELEASE. FCC promotes local telecommunications competition, (September 15, 1999 )
PUBLIC NOTICE. Common Carrier Bureau reminds all common carriers of their obligation to provide access to their telecommunications services via telecommunications relay services, (September 15, 1999 )
ACCOUNTING SAFEGUARDS. Amended Report and Order in proceeding in the matter of accounting safeguards under the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Dkt No.: CC- 96-150. by Errata. (DA No. 97-366). (February 19, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Implementation Of Non-accounting Safeguards. Made minor modifications to First R&O released December 24, 1996. Dkt No.: CC-96-149. Action by the Commission. by Order on Recon. (FCC No. 97-52). (February 19, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Report & Order Implements Infrastructure Sharing Provision Of The Telecommunications Act Of 1996. Dkt No.: CC-96-237. Adopted: February 6, 1997. (FCC No. 97-36). (February 07, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
1st R&O & NPRM Implements Telemessaging And Electronic Publishing Provisions Of The Telecommunications Act of1996. Dkt No.: CC-96-152. Action by the Commission. Adopted: February 6, 1997. by . (FCC No. 97-35). (February 07, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Report & Order in the Matter of Implementation of Sec. 402(b)(1)(A) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, LEC TARIFF STREAMLINING. (Dkt No.: CC- 96-187)(January 31, 1997) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking In the Matter of Implementation of Section 402(b)(2)(A) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (CC Docket No. 97-11) (January 13, 1997)(Comments due February 24, 1997, Reply Comments due March 17, 1997) [ News Releases | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice Of Proposed Rulemaking And Notice Of Inquiry In the Matter of Changes to the Board of Directors of the National Exchange Carrier Association, Inc. (CC Docket No. 97-21) (Released: January 10, 1997), (NPRM Comment Date: January 27, 1997, NPRM Reply Date: February 3, 1997) (NOI Comment Date: March 3, 1997, NOI Reply Date: April 3, 1997) [ News Releases | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Commission Staff Releases Analysis Of Forward-looking Economic Cost Proxy Models (DA 97-56) (Released January 9, 1997)(Comment Date: February 3, 1997, Reply Comment Date: February 14, 1997) [ News Releases ]
Notice of Inquiry In the Matter of Telecommunications Relay Services, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (CC Docket No. 90-571) (January 14, 1997) (Comments due March 17,1997, Reply Comments due April 21, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Comments Requested On Application By Ameritech Michigan For Authorization Under Section 271 Of The Communications Act To Provide In-region, Interlata Service In The State Of Michigan (CC Docket No. 97-1) [ Public Notice ]
Order In the Matter of Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions, Interconnection between Local Exchange Carriers and CMRS Providers, in the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (CC Docket No. 96-98, 95-185) (December 19, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking In the Matter of Implementation of of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Amendment of rules Governing Procedures to be followed when Formal Complaints are Filed Against Common Carriers (CC Docket No. 96-238) (November 27, 1996) (Comments due January 6,1997, Reply Comments due January 31, 1997) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order on Reconsideration In the Matter of Implementation of the Pay Telephone Reclassification and Compensation Provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Policies and Rules Concerning Operator Service Access and Pay Telephone Compensation; Petition of the Public Telephone Council to Treat Bell Operating Company Payphones as Customer Premises Equipment ; Petition of Oncor Communications Requesting Compensation for Competitive Payphone Premises Owners and Presubscribed Operator Services Providers, Petition of the California Payphone Association to Amend and Clarify Section 68.2(a)of the Commission's Rules, Amendment of Section 69.2(m) and (ee) of the Commission's Rules to Include Independent Public Payphones Within the "Public Telephone" Exemption from End User Common Line Access Charges (November 8, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-128, CC Docket. No. 91-35) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order In the Matter of Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Interconnection between Local Exchange Carriers and Commercial Mobile Radio Service Providers (November 6, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-98, CC Docket No. 95-185) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order In the Matter of Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Interconnection between Local Exchange Carriers and Commercial Mobile Radio Service Providers (October 25, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-98, CC Docket No. 95-185) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order on Reconsideration In the Matter of Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Interconnection between Local Exchange Carriers and Commercial Mobile Radio Service Providers (September 27, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-98, CC Docket No. 95-185) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Report & Order on the Matter of Implementation of the Pay Telephone Reclassification and Compensation Provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Policies and Rules Concerning Operator Service Access and Pay Telephone Compensation; Petition of the Public Telephone Council to Treat Bell Operating Company Payphones as Customer Premises Equipment ; Petition of Oncor Communications Requesting Compensation for Competitive Payphone Premises Owners and Presubscribed Operator Services Providers, Petition of the California Payphone Association to Amend and Clarify Section 68.2(a)of the Commission's Rules, Amendment of Section 69.2(m) and (ee) of the Commission's Rules to Include Independent Public Payphones Within the "Public Telephone" Exemption from End User Common Line Access Charges (September 20, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-128, CC Docket. No. 91-35) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order In the Matter of Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Interconnection between Local Exchange Carriers and Commercial Mobile Radio Service Providers (September 17, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-98, CC Docket No. 95-185) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking In the Matter of Implementation of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 Reform of Filing Requirements and Carrier Classifications, Anchorage Telephone Utility, Petition for Withdrawal of Cost Allocation Manual(CC Docket No. 96-193, AAD 95-91) (September 12, 1996) (Comments due October 15, 1996, Reply Comments due November 5, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking In the Matter of Implementation of Section 402(b)(1)(A) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (CC Docket No. 96-187) (September 6, 1996) (Comments due October 9,1996, Reply Comments due October 24, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Errata on the First Report & Order In the Matter of Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Interconnection between Local Exchange Carriers and Commercial Mobile Radio Service Providers (August 19, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-98, CC Docket No. 95-185) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Report & Order In the Matter of Implementation of the Local Competition Provisions in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Telecommunications Carrier's Use of Customer Proprietary Network Information; Use of Data Regarding Alarm Monitoring Service Providers (August 7, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-115) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking In the Matter of Implementation of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Allocation of Costs Associated with Local Exchange Carrier Provision of Video Programming Services. (May 10, 1996) (CC Docket No. 96-112) (Comments due May 28,1996, Reply Comments due June 7, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
The Recommended Decision of the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service, and all related documents and statements can now be accessed from the FCC's new Universal Service Home Page.
The Local Competition Order and all related documents can now be accessed from the FCC's new Local Competition Home Page.
News Release from the FCC Open Meeting on actions taken to implement the Local Competition Provisions of the Telecommunications Act. (CC Docket No. 96-98, sections 251 & 252)
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement Telemessaging, Electronic Publishing, and Alarm Monitoring Services (CC Docket No. 96-152) (Comments due September 4, 1996, Reply Comments due September 20, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement Accounting Safeguards Under the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (CC Docket No. 96-150) (Comments due August 26, 1996, Reply Comments due September 10, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Comments and Reply Comments to the NPRM Establishing a Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service (CC Dkt 96-45).
Telecommunications Carriers' Use of Customer Proprietary Network Information and Other Customer Informations. (CC Docket No. 96-115) (Comments due June 11, 1996, Reply Comments due June 26, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Local Competition Provisions in the Telecom Act. DA 96-753(Adopted May 13, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Implementation of Local Competition Provisions in the Telecom Act of 1996. (CC Docket No. 96-98) (Released May 7, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Allocation of Costs Associated with Local Exchange Carrier Provision of Video Programming Services. (Comments due May 28)
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Implementation of Local Competition Provisions in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, (CC Docket No. 96-98) (April 19, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order extending by four calendar days filing deadlines in response to NPRM FCC 96-93 - Establishing a Joint Board on Universal Services. (CC Docket No. 96-45) (April 1, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Commission establishes joint board and initiates Rulemaking for consideration of universal service, (CC DOCKET 96-45) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on BOC provision of out-of-region, interstate, interexchange services, (CC Docket No. 96-21) (February 14, 1996) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Dismissal of 19 pending Section 214 applications filed by carriers planning to provide video programming. (February 16, 1996) 14 - Applicants (da96-200) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ] 05 - Applicants (da96-201) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposing to eliminate 13 common carrier reporting requirements, and reduce the frequency of 6 other reports.(February 26, 1996)
Chairman Reed Hundt Announces Intention to Appoint Himself, Commissioners Barrett and Ness to Joint Board on Universal Service
Commission Proposes to Eliminate or Reduce Common Carrier Reporting Requirements [News Release ]
Common Carrier Bureau Announces Reorganization Keeney Says "Team CCB Ready for Telecom Law"

Compliance and Information Bureau

Commission Proposes Amendments to Rules Concerning the Inspection of Radio Installations on Large Cargo and Small Passenger Ships. FCC 96-194(April 26, 1996) [ a href="http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Compliance/News_Releases/1995/nrci5010.txt"News Release | a href="http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Compliance/Notices/1996/fcc96194.txt"Text Version | a href="http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Compliance/Notices/1996/fcc96194.wp"WordPerfect Version ]

International Bureau

Satellite Dish Zoning Preemption Clarified; New Procedures for Enforcement Adopted; Changes Implement Requirements of Telecommunications Act of 1996 (IB Dockets 95-59, 96-34) [ News Release | Text Version| Wordperfect Version ]

Mass Media Bureau

Report & Order In the Matter of MM Docket No. 96-90 Implementation of Section 203 of The Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Broadcast License Terms) Sections 73.1020 and 74.15 (MM Docket 97-2) (January 24, 1997) [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Implementation of Section 203 of Telecommunications Act of 1996, Broadcast License Terms. (MM Docket No. 96-90) (April 12, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order on Implementation of Section 204(a) and 204 (c) of Telecommunications Act of 1996, Broadcast License Renewal Procedures. (April 12, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Commission implements Section 202(c)(1) and 202 (e) of Telecommunications Act of 1996 National Broadcast Television Ownership and Dual Networking Provisions [ News Release | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
FCC revises National Multiple Radio Ownership Rule and Local Radio Ownership Rule in accordance with the Telecommunications Act of 1996. [ News Release | Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
FCC delegates ITFS processing authority to staff thus increasing efficiency and implementing another provision of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. [ News Release | Text Version| Wordperfect Version ]

Office of General Counsel

WEBCEL COMMUNICATIONS INC. Granted application for a Determination of Exempt Telecommunications Company Status under Section 34 of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as added by Section 103 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Action by General Counsel. Adopted: February 18, 1997. by Order. (DA No. 97-367)(February 18, 1997).
CSWC SOUTHWEST HOLDINGS, INC., CSWC TELECHOICE MANAGEMENT, INC., CSWC TELECHOICE, INC., SOUTHWEST TELECHOICE MANAGEMNT, LLC, CSW/ICG CHOICE COM., L.P. Granted application for Determination of Exempt Telecommunications Company Status under Section 34 of the Public Untitliy Holding Company Act of 1935, as added by Section 103 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Action by General Counsel. Adopted: February 18, 1997. by Order. (DA No. 97-372). (February 18, 1997)
FCC Adopts Rules for Dispute Resolution Process: Procedure Will Be Used If Technical Disputes Arise Between nonaccredited Standards Development Organization and Their Funders. (GC Docket No. 96-42)(May 7, 1996) [ News Release | Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to Implement Section 273(d)(5) of the Telecommunications Act of 1934, as amended by the Telecommunications Act of 1996 -- Dispute Resolution Regarding Equipment Standards (GC Docket 96-42) [ Text Version | Wordperfect Version ]

Office of Engineering & Technology

Report & Order In the Matter of Amendment of the Commission's Rules to Provide for Operation of Unlicensed NII Devices in the 5 GHz Frequency Range (ET Docket No. 96-102, RM-8648, RM-8653) (Released: January 9, 1997) [ News Releases | Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]

Wireless Telecommunications Bureau

NEWS RELEASE. FCC announces two conferences to enhance telecommunications services in indian country, March 20, 2001.
ORDER. Promotion of Competitive Networks in Local Telecommunications Markets [ Text | Word97 | Acrobat ]
NEWS RELEASE. FCC acts to foster telecommunications competition and consumer choice in multiple tenant environments, October 12, 2000.
NEWS RELEASE. FCC takes steps to promote access to telecommunications on tribal lands, June 8, 2000.
Order Amendment of the Commission Rules to conform the Maritime Service Rules to the Provisions of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. (April 12, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]
Order Amendment of Part 97 of the Commission Rules, Streamlining Amateur Radio Examination Procedures. (February 28, 1996) [ Text Version | WordPerfect Version ]

Resources Elsewhere on the Internet

These links are provided for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as an endorsement by the FCC of their content.

Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction links to information related to the Act.