
From the U.S. Code Online via GPO Access
[wais.access.gpo.gov]
[Laws in effect as of January 23, 2000]
[Document not affected by Public Laws enacted between
  January 23, 2000 and December 4, 2001]
[CITE: 47USC257]

 
          TITLE 47--TELEGRAPHS, TELEPHONES, AND RADIOTELEGRAPHS
 
                 CHAPTER 5--WIRE OR RADIO COMMUNICATION
 
                     SUBCHAPTER II--COMMON CARRIERS
 
               Part II--Development of Competitive Markets
 
Sec. 257. Market entry barriers proceeding


(a) Elimination of barriers

    Within 15 months after February 8, 1996, the Commission shall 
complete a proceeding for the purpose of identifying and eliminating, by 
regulations pursuant to its authority under this chapter (other than 
this section), market entry barriers for entrepreneurs and other small 
businesses in the provision and ownership of telecommunications services 
and information services, or in the provision of parts or services to 
providers of telecommunications services and information services.

(b) National policy

    In carrying out subsection (a) of this section, the Commission shall 
seek to promote the policies and purposes of this chapter favoring 
diversity of media voices, vigorous economic competition, technological 
advancement, and promotion of the public interest, convenience, and 
necessity.

(c) Periodic review

    Every 3 years following the completion of the proceeding required by 
subsection (a) of this section, the Commission shall review and report 
to Congress on--
        (1) any regulations prescribed to eliminate barriers within its 
    jurisdiction that are identified under subsection (a) of this 
    section and that can be prescribed consistent with the public 
    interest, convenience, and necessity; and
        (2) the statutory barriers identified under subsection (a) of 
    this section that the Commission recommends be eliminated, 
    consistent with the public interest, convenience, and necessity.

(June 19, 1934, ch. 652, title II, Sec. 257, as added Pub. L. 104-104, 
title I, Sec. 101(a), Feb. 8, 1996, 110 Stat. 77.)
