*Pages 1--1 from Microsoft Word - 59050.doc* STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER DEBORAH TAYLOR TATE Re: Service Rules for the 698- 746, 747- 762 and 777- 792 MHz Bands; Revision of the Commission’s Rules to Ensure Compatibility with Enhanced 911 Emergency Calling Systems; Section 68.4( a) of the Commission’s Rules Governing Hearing Aid- Compatible Telephones (WT Docket Nos. 06- 150, 01- 309, and CC Docket No. 94- 102). This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks comment on how the Commission can encourage wireless carriers to offer new and better services. Spectrum that is currently occupied by UHF television broadcasters will soon be available, and I believe we need to create an environment that encourages businesses to use this spectrum to provide innovative new wireless services. The Commission seeks comment on possible changes to service rules for wireless licenses in the 700 MHz Band that will help create such an environment. New technology creates new opportunities to bring wireless services to all Americans. Recently, I met with a group of analysts, entrepreneurs, and industry executives in Northern California and heard firsthand the demands placed on carriers to offer more services to more consumers, which in turn has created increased demand for valuable spectrum, such as the 700 MHz Band. The 700 MHz band is also ideal for getting a signal to customers in rural areas and will bring high- speed applications like streaming video to wireless customers. I particularly look forward to hearing ideas from industry experts and consumer advocates on how the Commission can facilitate deployment of wireless services to rural areas. I also would like to applaud the tentative conclusion that services in the 700 MHz Band that meet certain criteria should be subject to 911/ E911 and hearing aid- compatible handset requirements. All Americans, regardless of geographic location or physical disability, should be able to access reasonably equivalent wireless services. I look forward to working with my colleagues to determine the most effective use of this spectrum. 1