STATEMENT OF 
COMMISSIONER ROBERT M. MCDOWELL
Re: High-Cost Universal Service Support; Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service, 
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, WC Docket No. 05-337; CC Docket No. 96-45, FCC 
08-22 (Joint Board Comprehensive High Cost Recommended Decision Notice) 
(Approving).
Re: High-Cost Universal Service Support; Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service, 
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, WC Docket No. 05-337; CC Docket No. 96-45, FCC 
08-4 (Identical Support Rule Notice) (Approving).
Re: High-Cost Universal Service Support; Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service, 
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, WC Docket No. 05-337; CC Docket No. 96-45, FCC 
08-5 (Reverse Auctions Notice) (Approving).
I have consistently stated that, while the Universal Service system has been instrumental 
in keeping Americans connected and improving their quality of life, this system is in dire need of 
comprehensive reform.  I have maintained that we must follow five principles when considering 
reforms to the Universal Service Fund.  We must: (1) slow the growth of the Fund; (2) 
permanently broaden the base of contributors; (3) reduce the contribution burden for all, if 
possible; (4) ensure competitive neutrality; and (5) eliminate waste, fraud and abuse.  A number 
of proposals have been put forth, particularly the Joint Board’s recommendations for 
comprehensive reform sent to the Commission on November 19, 2007.  
 
By adopting these three notices of proposed rulemaking, we are moving forward to 
advance specific reforms to the way the Universal Service High Cost Fund is administered.  I 
favor a comprehensive approach where we can consider all ideas and options for reform of this 
important program.  This year the Commission has an historic opportunity to implement 
meaningful and lasting fiscal reform that balances stakeholders’ concerns and promotes the 
interests of consumers.  We should seize this opportunity and take a bold step forward.