NEWS
	Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20554	News media information 202 / 418-0500 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov TTY: 1-888-835-5322
	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).
	FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 20, 2001 Contact: David Fiske (202) 418-0513
	STATEMENT OF FCC CHAIRMAN MICHAEL POWELL ON WITHDRAWAL OF BELL SOUTH 271 APPLICATION
	BellSouth has withdrawn its application to provide long distance service in Georgia and Louisiana. The FCC cannot approve such applications by the Bell Companies unless they satisfy the requirements of section 271 of the Communications Act. BellSouth's application demonstrated the company's commitment and ability to make significant progress toward satisfying the statutory requirements and our precedents. Moreover, this application evidences significant and critical work by the Georgia and Louisiana state utility commissions. Yet, despite extensive conversation and collaboration with the FCC, questions remain regarding whether BellSouth has satisfied the rigorous requirements of the statute and our precedents, including the adequacy of the company's operational support systems, the integrity of its performance data and its change management process and related issues. We look forward to working with the company and with the Georgia and Louisiana utility commissions to provide them with any additional guidance they need to understand and satisfy the demanding requirements in this area. - FCC -