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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TIA CONTACT: EILEEN BRAMLET, TIA, +1.703.907.7749, ebramlet@tiaonline.org
PR CONTACT: ASHLEY ROOK, RATIONAL 360, +1.202.429.4929, AshleyRook@Rational360.com

TIA Urges FCC to Allow Electronic Labeling Option for Wireless Devices

ARLINGTON, VA (August 6, 2012) – The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading association representing the manufacturers and suppliers of high-tech communications networks, today filed a Petition for Rulemaking urging the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow non-exclusive option of electronic labeling on wireless devices. TIA said that the move would ease technical and logistical burdens on manufacturers while increasing end user access to useful information about their devices.

“Technology has once again outpaced regulatory requirements designed for rotary dialed phones,” said Danielle Coffey, TIA Vice President of Government Affairs.  “The FCC has shown great flexibility in recognizing the phenomenon of rapid technological change.”

“Electronic labeling is the natural evolution of device labeling,” Coffey continued.  “TIA is asking the FCC to move forward with making electronic labeling for all wireless devices a default option.  Not only does it more effectively meet end-user expectations while continuing the FCC’s comprehensive device labeling framework, it also will streamline manufacturing processes, lower costs, reduce prices, and encourage innovation.”

TIA noted that because the Commission is currently planning to undertake future rulemakings aiming to improve the equipment authorization process, as noted when the Commission recently allowed five-digit grantee codes, that the time to consider a broad rule change to allow for the option of electronic labeling is now. This e-labeling must be optional, as there will be cases where keeping the existing physical label will be necessary, such as for non-display products and radios.

About TIA

The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) represents manufacturers and suppliers of global communications networks through standards development, policy and advocacy, business opportunities, market intelligence, and events and networking. TIA enhances the business environment for broadband, mobile wireless, information technology, networks, cable, satellite and unified communications. Members' products and services empower communications in every industry and market, including healthcare, education, security, public safety, transportation, government, the military, the environment, and entertainment. Visit tiaonline.org for more details.

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