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February 7, 2011
Commissioners
Federal Communications Commission
445 l2'h Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20554
Dear Chairman Genachowski, Commissioner Baker, Commissioner Clyburn,
Commissioner Copps, and Commissioner McDowell:
As you know, providers ofvideo relay services (VRS) fill a crucial role facilitating
telephone communications for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and speech-impaired individuals.
Several companies provide the necessary technology and interpreters to allow everyone
to be able to communicate, and it is important that each ofthese companies adhere to
basic guidelines to ensure competent service. I am happy that the Federal
Communications Commission has created a certification process to make sure that VRS
companies are able to provide quality service to customers.
However, Convo Communications, a company with employees and consumers in our
districts, applied for certification from the Commission in October 2009, but its
application has still not been processed. The FCC has informed us that the certification
process has come under scrutiny following the discovery that several unscrupulous
companies were improperly taking advantage ofthe system, and we appreciate your
commitment to protecting consumers. However, we are concerned about the length of
time that Convo's application has been pending.
We urge you to process Convo Communications' application in a fair and timely manner.
Delaying certification hinders the company's ability to efficiently run a business, and
certification delays for good companies ultimately prove detrimental to customers who
depend on VRS.
The FCC has played a significant role supporting Americans with disabilities. We
request that you inform us ofthe progress ofConvo Communications' application at the
earliest opportunity.
Sincerely,
~~
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Member ofCongress
PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER
0172
J" McDermott
ember ofCongress
Tom McClintock
Member ofCongress
Cc: Gregory Hlibok, Chief, Disability Rights Office
Joel Gurin, Chief, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau