September 15, 1995 Federal Communications Commission Common Carrier Bureau ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS This list answers some common questions and misconceptions about the FCC and the Common Carrier Bureau. If, after reading this page, you have further questions about the information presented here, please send Email to fccinfo@fcc.gov. A more inclusive HTML version of this file is available online at . 1. Scope of Bureau and FCC Authority The FCC generally has jurisdiction only over interstate telecommunications rates. Rates for local service are generally set by state public utilities commissions. The Common Carrier Bureau regulates only wireline domestic services. Wireless and international services are handled by the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau and the International Bureau, respectively. 2. Internet-Related Issues The FCC is not proposing a "Modem Tax." (The Electronic Frontier Foundation has more information about the Modem Tax legend at The FCC does not regulate content on the Internet, and has not proposed to do so. Some versions of legislation currently being considered by Congress might, however, require the FCC to develop rules governing indecency on the Internet and commercial online services. The FCC is not proposing to "tax" ISDN service. We recently initiated a proceeding to consider the appropriate means of applying current rules to ISDN and similar services. 3. How to Participate in FCC Proceedings Anyone may file comments in FCC proceedings. To be considered as part of the official record, comments must be filed before the deadline specified in the Public Notice, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, or Notice of Inquiry. Comments should include the docket or rulemaking number for the proceeding, and should be sent to the Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission, Washington, D.C. 20554. Please file an original and four copies of all comments. We are in the process of implementing electronic filing of comments, and electronic mailboxes have been established for certain designated proceedings. At this time, however, unless the applicable public notice specifies otherwise, all comments must be filed in writing. 4. Complaints Complaints against telecommunications companies must be filed in writing with the Enforcement Division. We cannot accept complaints by Email, because complaints must include a copy of your phone bill.