Stevens Urges States To Simplify Telecom Role

[SOURCE: Technology Daily, AUTHOR: Michael Martinez]
Speaking to a meeting of the National Association of Utility Regulatory Commissioners, Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) said federal telecom legislation should simplify the role they play in issues that spread across state lines -- and not sacrifice the benefits of local regulation. But he added that it is necessary to reduce complications by establishing national standards and processes on key issues. Sen Stevens said local structures for video franchising have been problematic for telephone companies trying to enter the video market. Most states require phone companies to get franchises in each locality, which detractors have said slows and stifles competition. Stevens said progress was made last year in Texas, where a new law allows statewide franchises.
http://www.njtelecomupdate.com/lenya/telco/live/tb-PTPB1139949307229.html