FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Paul Jackson October 27, 2000 202-418-2200 PRESS STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER MICHAEL POWELL REGARDING LEGISLATION ON TELECOMMUNICATIONS OWNERSHIP DIVERSIFICATION Once again, I applaud the patient and persistent efforts of Senators McCain and Burns to raise awareness and support for the passage of their telecommunications ownership diversification legislation (S. 3235). I believe now, as I did one year ago when the Senators originally introduced their bill, that a viable incentive structure has been designed that works with the realities of the communications landscape. The bill correctly recognizes that promoting new entry into this vibrant industry, especially by minorities and women who heretofore have been generally left out, will further its vitality and benefit all Americans. I wholeheartedly support the legislation and the tremendous efforts of the Senators. - FCC -