McDowell, Genachowski Trade thoughts on FCC Reform

On July 20, Federal Communications Commission member Robert McDowell sent FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski a letter outlining his suggestions for reforming the agency. First he suggests a "operational, financial and ethics audit" of the FCC and related entities like the Universal Service Administrative Company. He calls for an update of the FCC's strategic plan and raises the issue of restructuring the agency. He asks for publication of Commission meeting dates through 2009 and into 2010 -- and improvements to the FCC's information technology and web systems. On July 21, Chairman Genachowski replied with actions he has already taken to reform the agency including -- appointing a Special Counsel for FCC reform, working with the FCC's General Counsel and Managing Director to review existing processes, and meeting with bureau and office heads to solicit ideas. The Commission will also soon launch an internal and -- later -- external website to solicit reform proposals.