FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: News Media Contact: July 17, 2001 Lauren Van Wazer at 202-418-2000 Press Statement of Commissioner Michael J. Copps on the International Bureau’s Authorizations of New Mobile Satellite Service Systems in the 2 GHz Band I am pleased that the agency has made a decision on these 2 GHz mobile satellite service licenses. The issuance of these licenses brings to closure a regulatory process that began nearly a decade ago. That is simply too long to wait for a decision and my hope – encouraged by today’s action – is that the Commission will move ahead expeditiously on the many other important items awaiting its decision. With the action announced today, new services and technologies can be tested in the competitive marketplace, which will be the ultimate arbiter of their success. - FCC - News media Information 202 / 418-0500 TTY 202 / 418-2555 Fax-On-Demand 202 / 418-2830 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov ftp.fcc.gov Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D. C. 20554 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).