Re: CG Docket Nos. 03-123 and 10-51'
Honorable Julius Genachowski, Chainnan
Commissioner Michael J. Copps
Commissioner Robert M. McDowell
Commissioner Mignon Clyburn
Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker
Federal Communications Commission
445 Twelfth Street, SW
Washin~n,DC20554
05-21-10;04:16PM;
JIM MATHESON
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May 21, 2010
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ENERGY AND COMMERCE
COMMITTEE
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COMMITTEE
Dear Chairman Genachowski and Commissioners Copps, McDowell, Clyburn and Baker,
I am writing regarding the Federal Communications Commission's proposed changes to the
payment formula for Video Relay Service (VRS), the broadband service that enables deaf and
hard ofhearing individuals to make routine and emergency calls. The Americans with
Disabilities Act directs the Commission to ensure that deafand hard ofhcaring individuals
nationwide have access to "functionally equivalent" telecommunications services available
nationwide. For those individuals who use American Sign Language, VRS is the most
functionally equivalent service available and the technology has often been described as life
changing.
It is my understanding that in its proposed rate change, the Commission is shifting for the first
time from a compensation method based on projected costs to rates based on the 2009 average
actual historical cost data. Concerns have been raised that this shift in methodology does not
accurately reflect the entire cost structure associated with providing VRS.
, As you move forward with determining appropriate compensation rates for VRS providers, I
respectfully request that you take into account all costs associated with providing this critical
service 'and ensure that carriers are treated fairly. VRS is one ofthe successes ofthe Americans
with Disabilities Act, and I hope you will continue to ensure progress in communications for the
deafand hard ofhcaring. Thank you for your consideration ofthis matter.
Sincerely,
28 HAV 2010 Rev
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WASHINGTON, DC 20111-4402
PHON.: 1202) 121-3011
FAX: (202) 225-1838
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