FCC Seeks Input on Transition to VoIP

The Federal Communications Commission wants public and industry comment on the policy framework for a transition from circuit-switched to voice services on all-IP networks. The FCC will use the comments to issue a possible "notice of inquiry" on the subject.

"In identifying the appropriate areas of inquiry, we seek to understand which policies and
regulatory structures may facilitate, and which may hinder, the efficient migration to an all IP world," the FCC says. "In addition, we seek to identify and understand what aspects of traditional policy frameworks are important to consider, address, and possibly modify in an effort to protect the public interest in an all-IP world."

Among other issues, the FCC will be looking at consumer protection issues such as how the needs of people with disabilities can be assured. A look at the role of "carrier of last resort" obligations in an all-IP framework also is expected.

All comments should refer to GN Docket Nos. 09-47, 09-51, and 09-137 and title comment filings
as “Comments – NBP Public Notice #25."
 
Filers using the Commission’s Electronic Comment Filing System should enter the following text in the “Custom Description” field in the “Document(s)” section of the ECFS filing page:  “Comments – NBP Public Notice # 25."