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November 17, 2011
The Honorable Julius Genachowski
Chairman
Federal Communications Commission
445 12
th
Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Chairman Genachowski:
This week the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology held a mark-up on H.R.. 3309
and H.R. 3310, two biIls designated to reform the process at the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC). While we do not agree on all the components embedded in these biIls, we
both have been long supporters ofprocess at the FCC.
During the mark-up, Mr. Steams submitted, and Ms. Eshoo accepted, an Amendment that would
require the FCC to provide direct access from the homepage ofits website to the Commission's
annual budget, annual Performance and Accountability Report, annual appropriations, and
detailed information regarding the Commission's total number offull time equivalent employees.
We understand that the Commission already makes this information available today but it is
difficult to locate. By contrast, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a "budget and
performance" tab right on its homepage. The idea ofbringing the FCC in line with other
agencies is derived directly from FCC Commissioner Rob McDowell's testimony on FCC
process reform and promotes Chairman Genachowski's commitment to greater transparency on
the Commission's new website. Although this Amendment was unanimously accepted during
the mark-up, we ask that the FCC move forward on this change absent a statutory obligation.
Thank you for your attention, and we look forward to the Commission's response.
Sincerely,
CliffS e s
United States Representative
cc: Commissioner Michael Copps
Commissioner Robert McDowell
Commissioner Mignon Clyburn
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