NEWS
	Federal Communications Commission 1919 - M Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20554	News media information 202 / 418-0500 Fax-On-Demand 202 / 418-2830 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov ftp.fcc.gov
	This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).
	November 19, 1997
	STATEMENT OF WILLIAM KENNARD CHAIRMAN OF THE FCC ON THE FILING OF PETITION FOR WRIT OF CERTIORARI
	The Solicitor General of the United States today filed a petition for a writ of certiorari with the Supreme Court challenging the Eighth Circuit's decisions in Iowa Utilities Board v. FCC and People of the State of California v. FCC. Among other issues, we have asked the Court to clarify the jurisdictional boundaries on the scope of this agency's rulemaking authority. It is vital that we seek to clarify these issues on behalf of the American people. What is at stake in this case is whether the FCC can act to assure competition, choice, and universal telephone service for all Americans. The goal of assuring competition, choice and universal telephone service will only be achieved if the FCC and the states work together. The pendency of this case should not deter the FCC and the states from finding common ground to achieve these goals. I intend to continue to work closely with the States to forge common solutions that deliver choice and universal telephone service for American consumers. I am fully committed to doing so. - FCC -