[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 99 (Friday, June 16, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1283-E1284]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    THE FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 1995

                                 ______


                            HON. JACK FIELDS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 16, 1995

  Mr. FIELDS of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I join with my colleague from 
Massachusetts, Mr. Markey, the ranking minority member of the 
Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance, in introducing the 
Federal Communications Commission Authorization Act of 1995. The bill 
authorizes appropriations in the amount of $186 million for the FCC for 
1 year only, fiscal year 1996. That figure is the same as the House 
authorized last year.
  These are exciting times in the world of telecommunications. We are 
seeing new technologies, and the convergance and blurring of 
traditionally distinct businesses. We are also seeing new alliances 
being formed as we begin to build the information superhighway.
  The House will soon be considering a major telecommunications reform 
bill which brings the 60-year-old communications statute up to date to 
reflect the dramatic changes in telecommunications. The Subcommittee on 
Telecommunications and Finance will be holding comprehensive hearings 
in the near future to consider the reduced role that the FCC will play 
in a competitive marketplace. That endeavor will be a challenge as 
well. In the meantime, however, we must authorize appropriations for 
the FCC so that it can fulfill its obligation as Congress intended.
  The bill is substantially the same as legislation ordered reported by 
the Committee on Energy and Commerce last year and approved by the 
House. Unfortunately, the other body failed to act so we must again 
consider these proposals.
  The bill includes a number of provisions that should allow the 
Commission to operate more efficiently, reduce regulatory burdens on 
industry, save agency resources, and privatize certain of the 
Commission's responsibilities. 

[[Page E1284]]

  The bill also provides that a substantial portion of the appropriated 
funds may be raised from application and user fees. It establishes 
procedures for tighter budget planning so that authorizing committees 
will have adequate time to review future proposed increases or 
adjustments to fee schedules.
  In addition, this legislation allows the Commission to waive 
individual licensing requirements for maritime radio services. This 
provision should relieve boat owners from the burden of unnecessary 
fees. The bill also provides for more efficient and flexible inspection 
of ship radio equipment.
  Among other things, the legislation clarifies the Commission's 
authority to reject tariffs and its authority to order refunds 
resulting from carrier rule violations. It also adjusts the statute of 
limitations for forfeiture proceedings against common carriers to 
conform with the Commission's accounting procedures. This provision 
reflects an agreement worked out between the FCC and the telephone 
industry. In addition, the bill authorizes the Commission to use 
outside consultants. This provision would save the FCC permanent 
staffing resources by allowing it to offer competitive compensation to 
temporary, outside experts and consultants.
  This bill was developed with bipartisan support and reflects a number 
of proposals supported by the Federal Communications Commission. I urge 
my colleagues to support it as it proceeds through the legislative 
process.

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