Arlington, Va., May 3, 2007 - In a statement issued today, the Coalition to Keep America Connected applauded the recommendation of the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service to place a temporary cap on competitive eligible telecommunications carriers (CETCs) as a key step in controlling the growth of the Universal Service Fund. The statement follows:
'This proposal from the Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service is right on the mark and it clearly identifies CETCs and the identical support rule as the key source of unnecessary growth in the Universal Service Fund.
'In 2006, wireless CETCs received close to $1 billion in universal service support, and it is forecast that they will receive more than $2.5 billion in support by 2009, even without additional CETC designations.'
'The Joint Board's decision to place a temporary cap on CETCs is an important first step in reigning in this explosive growth and ensuring that we have a stable and productive network for the future. It will also provide time for the Federal Communications Commission to find a long-term solution.
'We commend the Joint Board for its recommendation and look forward to working with policymakers and lawmakers in reforming and modernizing the Universal Service Fund and bringing universal broadband to all Americans.'
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The Coalition to Keep America Connected is dedicated to ensuring that all consumers have access to affordable telecommunications services and the latest technologies-no matter where they live. The effort is organized by four rural telecom associations, whose memberships include 700 small and midsize communications companies. Together these companies serve millions of consumers and 40% of the landmass across America. Visit us at www.keepamericaconnected.org.
