Jack Fields: “this morning, I introduced on behalf of myself, Chairman Tom Bliley, our Republican Members, and Democrat cosponsors…”

“this morning, I introduced on behalf of myself, Chairman Tom Bliley, our Republican Members, and Democrat cosponsors, the Communications Act of 1995. Hearings are planned for Wednesday, May 10, Thursday, May 11, and Friday, May 12. Truly, this is a watershed and historic moment for the telecommunication industry, our country, and the consuming public. This legislation meets several broad objectives: First, and foremost, the legislation gives definition and certainty as we move into this time of convergence and technological innovation. Second, this legislation is much more deregulatory than the telecommunications legislation, introduced and passed last year. This legislation recognizes that the 1934 act is outdated--a dinosaur--and coupled with a hodgepodge of FCC administrative decisions and Federal court decisions, the telecommunications industry could be stifled and the consumer denied better products and services at lower costs unless we pass this historic legislation. Third, great attention was paid in creating level playing fields--an atmosphere of legislative parity so that the rules are fair to all competitors as new lines of business are entered. Fourth, it was our goal and objective for our legislation to be dynamic so that it evolves with and recognizes new technology and its applications. Fifth, our legislation is predicated on competition and an opportunity model not government, be it Federal or State micromanagement.”