1
STATEMENT OF 
COMMISSIONER JONATHAN S. ADELSTEIN
Re:  Promotion of Competitive Networks in Local Telecommunications Networks, WT Docket 
No. 99-217, Report and Order (Mar. 19, 2008).
Robust and fair competition across the communications landscape brings with it the 
benefits of consumer choice, lower prices, and greater innovation.  So I am pleased to support 
this Order which eliminates a potential barrier to competition and choice in telecommunications 
service for the millions of Americans who live in apartment buildings, condominiums, and other 
so-called multiple tenant environments (MTEs).  
This Order addresses the use of exclusive agreements between providers of 
telecommunications services and owners of residential MTEs.  By finding that exclusive access 
arrangements amount to an unreasonable practice under the Communications Act, we remove a 
potential barrier that could hinder new entrants from offering telecommunications services to 
residential consumers in MTEs.  
This Order builds on the steps we took last year to improve consumers’ access to video 
services.  In last year’s Order, we banned the use of exclusive access arrangements for the 
provision of video services to multiple dwelling units.  I am encouraged that we address such 
contracts for telecommunications services today.  Whether it is voice or video, people living in 
apartment buildings and condominiums should not be shackled to one provider.  This action 
alone will not solve our competition and broadband challenges, but it takes a worthy step by 
opening the door for many people to exercise their right to choose their own provider.