Choice of new TV system shifting into a political brawl about jobs

Article Abstract:

In anticipation of the federal government's selection of a national standard for high-definition television (HDTV), various groups are lobbying the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to consider the employment issue a major factor in its decision making. HDTV technology, which will offer viewers high-quality video and sound, is being touted as a way by which the US can reclaim global supremacy in the electronics industry. The Governors of Pennsylvania and Indiana are lobbying on behalf of one proposed standard, because the factories that would be building the products will be located in their states. The FCC is starting to oblige the political requests and is asking each contender for a detailed jobs plan. Some FCC officials are concerned, however, that a second-rate HDTV system could emerge if issues other than technology are considered in choosing the standard.

Standards, Standard, Standardization, Activism, Political protest, High-definition television, High definition television, Employment Opportunity, Political Issue, Decision Making

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Congress restricts robot phone dialers

Article Abstract:

Congress passes a bill that would restrict the use of automatic dialing devices. The bill also would establish 'do not call' lists to prevent unwanted telemarketing calls from human sales people. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) would establish and maintain such lists. The bill would also regulate 'junk fax' messages, which are ads sent to facsimile machines. This legislation reflects popular irritation, especially with unwanted prerecorded messages. Most autodial calls would be prohibited. Exceptions would involve agreement on the part of the person receiving such calls or use of an autodialer to notify people of an emergency. The bill now goes to President Bush.

Telephone and telegraph apparatus, Legislative bodies, Laws, regulations and rules, Telephone, Telephony, Telemarketing, United States. Congress, Telephone systems, Legislative process, Telephone System, Promotion of Product, Government Regulation, Legislation, Automatic Dialing

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