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WASHINGTON. DC 20510
August 8, 2010
The Honorable Julius Genachowski
Chairman
Federal Communications Commission
445 12
th
Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20554
Dear Chairman Genachowski:
We write to you out ofconcern regarding the growing problem ofphantom traffic.
Phantom traffic is network traffic that does not reveal the necessary information for
carriers to properly identify and bill for traffic. We recognize and applaud the inclusion
ofphantom traffic in the National Broadband Plan and we respectfully ask that as the
Commission considers important issues such as intercarrier compensation, the
Commission review this important issue.
Communications providers should be able to identify and be properly compensated for
the traffic that is carried on their networks. We have heard repeatedly from carriers in
our states that phantom traffic results in a significant loss ofrevenue that in turn places
undue stress on the Universal Service Fund and consumers. Without the resolution of
this issue, providers may be less able to invest in upgrading and expanding their
broadband networks-a key goal ofthe National Broadband Plan.
Though there are many important and pressing issues before the Federal Communications
Commission, we believe the problem ofphantom traffic can and should be solved. We
encourage the Commission to work quickly to modernize and clarify signaling rules, and
look forward to your positive response to our concerns.
Sincerely,
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Senator Mark Pryor
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Senator Blanche Lincoln
S ator John Thune
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Senator Russ Feingold
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