STATEMENT OF
CHAIRMAN KEVIN J. MARTIN
Re:  Telecommunications Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech Services for Individuals with 
Hearing and Speech Disabilities, CG Docket No. 03-123, CC Docket No. 98-67; E911 
Requirements for IP-Enabled Service Providers, WC Docket No. 05-196
Today we take additional steps to enable successful implementation of the ten-digit 
numbering system for Internet-based Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) on December 
31, 2008.  In June, the Commission adopted the ten-digit numbering system and required that it 
be implemented no later than the end of this year.  In this item, we explain additional aspects of 
the ten-digit numbering system, including access to numbers, cost recovery, and emergency call 
handling, that are essential to implementation. 
We are well aware that there are many Americans with hearing or speech disabilities that 
depend on TRS services for their daily communication needs.  The Commission remains 
committed to improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by ensuring that they 
have the same access to communication technologies as people without such disabilities.  
Ten-digit numbering will enable Internet-based TRS users to make and receive calls like 
anyone else, eradicating another barrier that stands in the way of functional equivalency.  
Functional equivalency means individuals with disabilities having access to the same services as 
everyone else.  This equal access is vital to accessing jobs, education, public safety, and simple 
communications with family, friends, and neighbors.  Therefore, I am pleased that today’s item 
will help make the ten-digit numbering system successful.