*Pages 1--2 from Microsoft Word - 39195* NEWS Federal Communications Commission 445 12 th Street, S. W. Washington, D. C. 20554 This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D. C. Circ 1974). News Media Information 202 / 418- 0500 Internet: http:// www. fcc. gov TTY: 1- 888- 835- 5322 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: June 10, 2004 Linda L. Haller, 202- 418- 1408, Linda. Haller@ fcc. gov FCC DRIVES MODERNIZATION THROUGH ELECTRONIC FILING PROPOSAL FOR INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Washington, D. C. – Today, the Commission proposed to further modernize its operations by establishing mandatory electronic filing of all international telecommunications service submissions. The proposal builds on the proven value of the existing electronic version of the International Bureau Filing System (IBFS) to save applicants and the Commission time and money. In a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), the Commission proposed to streamline its existing dual- mode system for international telecommunication service filings by phasing out the option of manual filing. Through easy- to- follow automated steps, the electronic system would walk filers through the requisite steps required to submit information and documents to the FCC -- whether an application or a petition for declaratory ruling. In addition to easing the filing process, this simplification will enhance transparency. Specifically, the proposal applies to: all accounting rate changes, requests for assignment of data network identification codes, foreign carrier notifications, applications related to section 214 authorizations, applications related to submarine cable landing licenses, requests for recognized operating agency status, requests for assignment of an international signaling point code and other associated filings. The NPRM also seeks comment on whether it would be necessary to implement a transition period to allow applicants and carriers to adjust to any changes in the rules. Furthermore, the Commission notes that currently not all international telecommunications service applications and reports can be filed electronically. Under its proposal, the Commission would not require mandatory electronic filing for any type of service until an IBFS electronic filing form is available. The Commission proposes to issue a public notice announcing each new IBFS feature as it becomes available for electronic use. Each such public notice will announce a 60- day transition period after which carriers and applicants must file electronically. After a transition period, the Commission would return to the applicant any filings received manually. 1 Comments on the proposals are due 60 days after publication of the Notice of Proposed rulemaking in the Federal register, with reply comments due 30 days later. Action by the Commission June 10, 2004 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 04- 133). Chairman Powell, Commissioners Abernathy, Copps, Martin, and Adelstein. Docket 04- 226 - FCC - International Bureau Contacts: Alexandra Field (202) 418- 2064 or JoAnn Ekblad (202) 418- 1372. 2