Thomas Daschle: “I am pleased that after years of struggle, the Senate has before it, a telecommunications reform conference report that…”

“I am pleased that after years of struggle, the Senate has before it, a telecommunications reform conference report that represents the dawning of a new telecommunications era in this country. I want to commend the Commerce Committee chairman, Senator Pressler, and the ranking member, Senator Hollings, for their hard work and efforts in bringing a measure before us today that will enhance true competition in telecommunications without shortchanging American consumers. This is complex and potentially far-reaching legislation, that will affect an economic sector that constitutes 20 percent of our economy, and whose services reach virtually every American. Mr. President, this bill is all about competition in telephone services, cable services, information and data services, and broadcasting services. By unleashing these competitive forces, innovation and progress will flourish in the rapidly expanding telecommunications field, and will greatly increase the opportunity for every citizen to affordably access the rapidly changing world of advanced telecommunications technology. While this legislation focuses on competition and deregulation, the conference report contains essential rural safeguards in the form of universal service provisions that will benefit our rural communities and greatly increase their ability to persevere in the 21st century.”