HomeMy WebLinkAbout96TELACT.docxFebruary 14, 1996
The Honorable Michael K. Simpson
Idaho State Legislature
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0038
The Honorable Jerry T. Twiggs
Idaho State Legislature
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0081
Re: Appointment of Legislators for Telecommunications Review
Dear Mr. Speaker and President Pro Tem:
Last week the President signed into law the Telecommunications Act of 1996. This Act is the first major overhaul of the federal communications law in more than 60 years. To describe the legislation as unprecedented and far-reaching would be an understatement. The Act generally permits U S WEST and GTE to provide previously prohibited long-distance services such as calls between northern and southern Idaho while allowing cable TV companies, long-distance companies (AT&T, MCI, Sprint), and others into the local exchange service markets. It removes most rate regulations for cable TV services after three years and permits telephone companies to provide video programming directly to customers in their service areas. Finally, it requires that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) initiate approximately 80 rulemakings to fully implement the various provisions of the Act. The FCC must complete some of these rulemakings this summer.
State public utilities commissions have significant responsibilities to implement required telecommunication services. We will participate in the FCC rulemakings to ensure that Idaho’s interests are protected as the FCC moves forward. We also believe that Idaho’s Telecommunications Act of 1988 will need to be amended to conform with various provisions of the federal law. To that end, we urge you to select several Representatives and Senators to assist us with the consideration of proposed legislative changes. We envision that the Legislators, the Public Utilities Commission, and the Governor’s office would review and/or draft necessary legislation. The Commission stands ready to assist the Legislature in this significant undertaking.
If you would like to discuss this matter further, please contact us at your convenience.
Sincerely,
Ralph Nelson
President
Marsha H. Smith
Commissioner
Dennis Hansen
Commissioner
DH/vld:L1996/act.dh
cc: Governor Batt