In the first step of his reform of the Federal Communications Commission, Chairman Michael K. Powell last week named Mary Beth Richards as special counsel in charge of FCC reform efforts. “I am committed to making the FCC more efficient, more decisive, and more responsive to the fast-moving changes in technology and telecommunications markets. Mary Beth’s extensive experience at the FCC and her commitment to excellence in government make her the ideal choice,” said Powell. Richards is currently FCC’s deputy managing director. She will oversee the project on behalf of the chairman’s office and will work closely with all of the bureaus and offices to ensure a smooth transition.
Microsoft Corp.’s “Can Your Palm Do That?” advertising campaign is the subject of federal charges of false and deceptive advertising by the Federal Trade Commission. Microsoft lawyers are reportedly negotiating to settle the case. The FTC believes the campaign deceptively claimed features that were unavailable unless buyers spent more for wireless capability. Consumers were told this in nearly unreadable print at the bottom of the ads. Palm Inc.’s latest units-the Palm VII-provide access to wireless communications.
The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau will stop publishing paper fact sheets on April 1, since this information is available from the WTB Web site http: www.fcc.gov/wtb. The FCC’s Consumer Center (1-800-CALL-FCC – 1-888-225-5322) will provide copies of the Web information to consumers who do not have access to the Internet.
The FCC’s Common Carrier Bureau announced that it would accept comments on Western Wireless Corp.’s application to be designated an eligible telecommunications carrier on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota until March 12. Replies are due March 26.
The Missouri 800 MHz Public-Safety Planning Committee will meet March 29 to update applications and review regulatory issues. This meeting will be followed by one to review 700 MHz guidelines.
Compiled from wire and other news sources
