McDowell 'Very Troubled' By Social Security Number Collection

Federal Communications Commission member Robert McDowell says that when he voted to approve collecting more data on the race and gender of broadcast station owners he was not endorsing collecting Social Security numbers as part of that increased data drop. "Although I am pleased that we have provided broadcasters a reasonable extension of time for filing Form 323," said Commissioner McDowell, "I remain very troubled that the Commission finds itself asking for Social Security numbers in connection with the filing as a way of verifying individual identities." "Had I known when I voted in favor of collecting more data about the race and gender of broadcast owners that the process also would involve collection of Social Security numbers, I would not have endorsed using that means to what remains a worthwhile end."