*Pages 1--2 from Microsoft Word - 32676* Federal Communications Commission FCC 03- 249 2 We leave for tomorrow several key details of the supplemental rate review, including judgments about what specific showings will be required for additional federal support. I am pleased the item permits states to consider the calling scopes available in rural areas served by non- rural carriers when reviewing whether rates in those areas are comparable to urban rates nationwide and that the item seeks comment on whether and how consideration of calling scopes might be incorporated into the basic template. I look forward to working on these issues with my colleagues and hope that we can provide necessary clarification as soon as possible. Finally, I note that this Order relies on recent data from the General Accounting Office showing that most rural and urban rates are currently reasonably comparable; this finding supports our conclusion that federal universal service support is set at a reasonable level. That said, it is important that we continue to monitor the effectiveness of the actions we take here. I believe that the new rate data that we will obtain through the expanded certification process will be essential for that purpose and can only help us in our efforts to “preserve and advance” universal service. We can all take pride in the success of our universal service programs and I am pleased to support this item. 2