STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER MICHAEL O’RIELLY Re: Process Reform for Executive Branch Review of Certain FCC Applications and Petitions Involving Foreign Ownership, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, IB Docket No. 16-155. I’m pleased to support this proposal to set a definitive process that would bring more certainty and transparency to the review of applications involving foreign ownership, all without harming national security. Too often today, these applications are lost in the black hole of the “Team Telecom” review process, delaying or preventing U.S. companies from accessing new capital and opportunities or, even worse, leaving their applications in the ether for years, as Commissioner Pai stated. As Commissioner Clyburn indicated, the current process is so bad that some parties avoid it altogether as a matter of course, by foreclosing any consideration of foreign investment. The reforms recommended in this item would go a long way toward clearing out any unnecessary roadblocks between American businesses and new investors. The item proposes firm timelines for review, which the Commission has the full authority to do, that would be a vast improvement over the current open-ended structure. Parties deserve answers to their petitions within a reasonable timeframe, and 90 days with a possible one-time 90-day extension should provide ample time to identify the rare cases in which there is a true national security concern. Likewise, the proposal that each reviewing agency provide a point person and their contact information would greatly enhance accountability and transparency. It’s very difficult to address concerns when applicants don’t even know which agency is lodging them, let alone who in that place can facilitate a resolution. There are some important issues to be worked out, such as the extent to which the Commission should be aggregating or storing any sensitive information that may be filed, and if so how best to maintain appropriate security and confidentiality. I expect we will receive substantial, useful feedback on these issues and others in the weeks to come, and look forward to bringing this proceeding to a successful conclusion in the very near future. A special thanks to the Chairman, the Bureau, and especially Mr. Tanner for their work leading to this item.