[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 165 (Friday, November 19, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2491]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   COMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE COMPETITION AND PRIVATIZATION ACT OF 1999

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. ALBERT RUSSELL WYNN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 10, 1999

  Mr. WYNN. Mr. Speaker, today we consider H.R. 3261, the 
Communications Satellite Competition and Privatization Act. I do not 
think that anyone in the House would disagree with this bill's purpose 
to create increased competition in the global communication satellite 
industry. This goal is commendable. However, I would like to express 
some concern about one of the provisions in this bill.
  First, let me say that, I am pleased that this bill would permit 
Lockheed Martin and COMSAT to complete their merger. This transaction, 
which has received approval from the Department of Justice, and has 
passed the first phase of FCC approval, has been in need of enabling 
legislation for over a year.
  Unfortunately, this bill puts unnecessary conditions on the lifting 
of COMSAT's ownership cap and therefore on the Lockheed Martin-COMSAT 
merger. Earlier this year, the Senate passed satellite reform 
legislation, which does not contain these restrictions. It is my view 
that the House should not impose new restrictions during this process 
of creating open competition.
  In conference, I would urge my colleagues to support the removal of 
the conditions on the Lockheed Martin-COMSAT merger. This merger is 
important for my constituents in Maryland, not withstanding American 
consumers who deserve more competition in the satellite services 
market.

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