FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                   Contact: Marsha MacBride
October 8, 1999                                                                      202-418-2200
                                   

                      PRESS STATEMENT OF 
                  COMMISSIONER MICHAEL POWELL 
                 REGARDING DRAFT LEGISLATION ON
         TELECOMMUNICATIONS OWNERSHIP DIVERSIFICATION 
                                
     I add my voice to the chorus of those praising Senators McCain and Burns for introducing
this legislation.  The communications industry in all its facets is a vibrant and growing part of the
American economy.  This bill correctly recognizes that promoting new entry into this industry will
further its vitality and benefit all Americans. 

This bill will create an incentive structure that works with the realities of the
communications landscape.  It recognizes that there is room in this industry for small and large
players and it sets the stage for greater participation by many who have traditionally been left out.

I have previously called for sustainable solutions to ensure that all Americans, including
minorities and women, are able to share in the fruits of economic opportunity present in
communications today. This bill will create such a sustainable solution.  

I cheer the courage and foresight of the sponsors, and commend the many organizations and
individuals that helped in the effort, which I wholeheartedly support.  I implore the people's
representatives to do so as well and reaffirm that America still is the land of opportunity.  

                            - FCC -