Washington, DC: The following may be attributed to US Representative Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Ranking Democrat, House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet, on the conditions proposed last night by AT&T for consideration by the Federal Communications Commission for approval of the AT&T-BellSouth merger:

"As the first member of Congress to propose Network Neutrality legislation in the last Congress (HR 5273), I welcome the news that we may ring in 2007 with a New Year’s Eve victory for the bedrock principle of non-discrimination on the Net.  The proposal by AT&T to adhere to an Internet non-discrimination principle represents a significant step toward achieving our legislative goals.  The open architecture platform of the Internet is the greatest vehicle for innovation, entrepreneurial activity, and free speech ever invented and protecting its special nature is vital for our democracy and our economy.

“While the proposed network neutrality provision is not perfect, and is of only limited time duration, I am pleased that the concerns of the Internet community are being acknowledged and addressed.  AT&T’s proposal will certainly serve as an important keystone upon which to build legislative proposals to safeguard the Internet in the upcoming Congress.
 
"In addition, AT&T’s proposals addressing the buildout of broadband service throughout the AT&T/BellSouth region, with a particular commitment to buildout to low income and rural areas, represent a significant public interest pledge when seen in context with the accompanying commitment to price broadband service to new customers at $10 a month. 

“With respect to competition issues, I believe AT&T’s proposals still fall short, particularly in light of the recent report from the General Accountability Office (GAO) on the so-called “special access” market.  The sheer size of the combined telecommunications entity that AT&T and BellSouth would become means that meaningful conditions assuring competitors of a fair market are essential.  It is now up to FCC Chairman Martin and Commissioners Copps, Adelstein, and Tate to weigh the proposals offered by AT&T, clarify important details, and secure any conditions they deem pertinent and meritorious for approving the merger in the public interest.”

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