WASHINGTON-The Federal Communications Commission, in moves that will largely wipe out the huge wireless backlog and automate future licensing, dismissed 50,000 multiple address system applications and approved rules implementing the universal licensing system last week.
“Implementation of the wireless bureau’s universal licensing system will literally revolutionize the way we conduct business with wireless applicants, licensees and the public,” said FCC Chairman Bill Kennard.
Kennard said the ULS ruling “represents the best aspects of our common sense agenda and serves as a model for future streamlining by the commission’s other bureaus.”
The expected dismissal of the 900 MHz MAS applications, prompted by the 1997 budget act’s elimination of lotteries, sets the stage for the auction of that spectrum.
Public utilities are expected to lobby the FCC to set aside frequencies for companies serious about deploying MAS systems.
In other actions, the FCC proposed to redesignate portions of the 18 GHz band to avoid problems in the deployment of mobile and fixed mobile satellite systems.
The agency also proposed streamlining telecom carrier reporting requirements associated with the administration of telecommunications relay services, North American numbering plan, local number portability and universal service support mechanisms.
Reacting to increasing consumer complaints, the FCC launched a `truth in billing’ rule making to make bills easier for subscribers to understand and to protect them from paying unauthorized charges.
On the cyberspace front, the commission approved new, high-speed wireless Internet services and proposed eliminating barriers to modem speeds.
