[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 69 (Friday, May 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E916]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  EXPRESSING NEED FOR FURTHER ACTION BY FCC FOLLOWING TRIENNIAL REVIEW

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                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 9, 2003

  Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to the Federal 
Communications Commission's Triennial Review of the 1996 
Telecommunications Act adopted over two months ago on February 20, 
2003.
  Today, the telecommunications industry waits for some certainty and 
clarity regarding these new rules adopted by the FCC. These rules, 
dealing with local telephone competition, have yet to be put to paper 
so that the affected companies can review the order and make business 
plans accordingly.
  The telecommunications sector of our economy is hemorrhaging. Lost 
jobs, reduced capital investment and loss of investor confidence have 
affected nearly every company in this sector. The lack of clarity, as 
to these new rules, is prolonging this downward spiral.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge the Commission to act on this issue and do it as 
soon as possible. This sector is too important to be left on hold.

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