Tate to Chair Joint Boards on Universal Service, Separations

[SOURCE: Federal Communications Commission]
Regarding her appointment, Chairman Martin said, "I am extremely pleased that Commissioner Tate will serve on these important Federal-State Joint Boards. Both universal service and separations are critical components of the framework set forth by Congress and, based on her experience as an effective state commissioner, I am confident that she will provide strong leadership and will vigorously pursue the goals set forth in the Act, including the provision of quality telecommunications services at reasonable rates throughout the nation." Commissioner Tate said, "I am deeply honored that Chairman Martin and Commissioners Copps and Adelstein have appointed me to serve as the Federal Chair on the Joints Boards for Universal Service and Jurisdictional Separations. In these roles, I will reach out to states and consumer advocates to preserve and advance the principles set forth by Congress. Specifically, I will continue the efforts I began as a state official to ensure that all consumers - especially those in rural and high-cost areas - are able to obtain services at reasonable rates. Paramount is my commitment to good stewardship and encouraging the deployment of new choices for Americans in underserved areas of our country. As I did in Tennessee, I will continue to stress a pragmatic approach to federalism, build a consensus between multiple jurisdictions and stakeholders, encourage investment, and, above all else, champion the needs of consumers. I look forward to building a lasting cooperation with state regulators as we move forward."
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-06-3A1.doc