Copps Seeks to Revitalize Transparency and Cooperation at FCC, Welcomes Broadband Stimulus Legislation

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Michael Copps said he had "no idea" how long he will hold the gavel, but he has no intention of being a mere seat-warmer. Speaking at a press briefing Wednesday morning, Chairman Copps outlined an ambitious agenda of institutional reform, welcoming Congress' investment in broadband deployment, and emphasizing his plans to encourage more growth in high-speed networks. Most the briefing was devoted to the upcoming transition to digital television. Originally set for February 17, last week Congress moved the date of the transition to June 12, 2009. Speaking about the broadband stimulus legislation that passed the Senate on Tuesday and is currently in conference negotiations, Chairman Copps said that the FCC is "trying to hit the ground running" to collect better data on broadband availability. The agency will have no problem coming up with definitions of unserved and underserved areas within the 45 day period imposed by the bill. Regardless of who is in charge of administering the stimulus bill's grant programs, Copps stressed that the FCC is ready to do its part to foster inter-agency cooperation to ensure the public's dollars are well spent.