New policies for phone firms face FCC vote; upstart carriers could gain access to the networks of mail local providers

Article Abstract:

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expected to vote on the question of whether startup fiber optic service providers should be able to operate in major cities and connect their networks and equipment to lines operated by local telephone companies. The FCC is expected to vote to allow the companies to connect to local phone companies, much the same way as local telephone companies are connected to long distance providers. The startup companies will be able to offer only closed systems; they will not be able to offer telephone service that can access the general public. The FCC is also expected to propose a procedure governing how competing companies, such as Teleport Communications Group and Metropolitan Fiber Systems Inc, connect to local telephone networks to reach residential customers. Additionally, each state will need to issue new regulations in order for full competition with local telephone companies to be permitted.

Telephone companies, Fiber optics, Government Agency, Telephone Company

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Lawmakers oppose FCC plan that could aid AT&T

Article Abstract:

Members of the US Congress's House Subcommittee on Telecommunications send letters to Chmn Alfred Sikes of the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding proposed deregulation of AT&T. Competitors of the telecommunications company also criticize the suggestions of the FCC that would permit AT&T to change its prices on only one day's notice rather than the 14 days required by a 1989 ruling. Other changes would raise costs for competitors by changing the fees for connections between local telephone networks and long-distance networks. Congressional representatives also express concern that the FCC's proposals would raise rates for customers, by reversing the move toward increased competition in telephone services.. In contrast, Sikes and the Bush administration believe less regulation of AT&T should increase competition and would not affect small business or residential users but only larger businesses.

Legislative bodies, Industry regulations, Records and correspondence, Government regulation of business, Trade regulation, United States. Congress. House. Subcommittee on Telecommunications

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AT & T to gain in rule change sought by FCC; long-distance plan gives more freedom to react in big-business market

Article Abstract:

AT & T may be given more freedom to react quickly in the market for big business customers, due to a proposed package of regulatory changes drawn up by the FCC. The FCC voted for a proposal designed by its staff for a thorough study of the long-distance industry, with a view toward relaxing its rules governing AT & T. A tentative conclusion was made that the telecommunications industry had substantial competition, especially in the business services area. Public comment will be sought during the next few months. The FCC has proposed a 'maximum streamlined regulation' of many business services, and would allow AT & T to offer packaged services to specific customers.

Information services, Telecommunications, Telecommunications Industry

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