FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Rick Harris - 703-535-7433 or harrisr@pcia.com
 

Speakers at PCIA Training Provide Glimpse into
FCC Environmental Agenda

The FCC will be “advocate for the wireless infrastructure industry”

April 9, 2003, Alexandria, Va. – Bryan Tramont, Senior Legal Advisor to FCC Chairman Powell, shared the FCC’s outlook on environmental issues with attendees at the PCIA training on essential tower law for environmental compliance. In an open lunchtime discussion and Q&A with PCIA President & CEO Jay Kitchen, Tramont made it clear that the FCC recognizes the critical role played by tower companies. He stated that the FCC will be an “advocate for the wireless infrastructure industry” as environmental debates over issues such as avian mortality progress.

Additionally, Tramont said that the Commission will continue to look for ways to streamline the complex regulatory processes that tower companies must go through when building or modifying structures. Activities will be focused on those structures that could potentially affect the environment, and structures without potential environmental effects would not be held up by regulations.

“It’s clear that the Commission leadership recognizes how important wireless infrastructure is to the functioning of all wireless communications – from homeland security to broadband technology, the FCC understands that infrastructure is critical,” said Kitchen. “This industry should be encouraged that the FCC is willing to work with us to ensure that regulatory burdens do not hinder the deployment of critical wireless networks.”

According to Tramont, the FCC will have a robust environmental agenda this year. Tower companies can look for action on the Nationwide Programmatic Agreement for Section 106 Review, data gathering to better understand avian mortality, outreach to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, coordination with the EPA on RF issues, and actions to address tribal consultation challenges. He also invited tower companies to share with the Commission their perspectives on environmental issues.

Tramont and Kitchen spoke as part of a day-long training seminar hosted by PCIA. The event focused on federal laws and policies that govern tower companies, including the Section 106 review process for historic preservation, complying with federal wildlife protection laws, and tribal consultation under federal rules.

For a conference agenda, please go to www.pcia.com.

About PCIA
PCIA is an association of companies that seek the advancement of the wireless communications industry through advocacy, technical and marketplace initiatives. PCIA supports programs and policies that expand the growth of the wireless network infrastructure and deployment industry. PCIA’s goal is to create a better financial and business environment in which its members can grow and succeed. For more information, please go to www.pcia.com.

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Media Contact: Rick Harris - 703-535-7433 or harrisr@pcia.com