SEPARATE STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER KATHLEEN Q. ABERNATHY Re: In the Matter of Garmin International, Inc., Amendment of Sections 95.193(a) and 95.631(d) to Authorize, Manufacture, Sale and Use of GPS Transmission Enhanced Family Radio Service Units, Amendment of Sections 95.193(a), 95.193(b), and 95.631(d) of the Commission’s Rules Governing Permissible Communications in the Family Radio Service, WT Docket No. 01- 339, RM-10070, Report and Order (adopted ___________, 2003) Today’s Order amends our rules to give manufacturers the flexibility to integrate innovative communications services and capabilities into equipment used in the Family Radio Service. I believe that by removing prohibitions on FRS units’ ability to transmit location information, their usefulness will increase to consumers. Users will now be able to locate family members or members of groups, which is invaluable if someone is lost or injured. By allowing our rules to accommodate such new technological advancements and by encouraging innovation by manufacturers, consumers benefit from the latest technological advancements.