WHEREAS:

The telephone industry has undergone major changes in recent years because of increased competition, new technology and the deregulation of the industry; and,

WHEREAS:

The anti-trust suit against AT&T was resolved by a consent decree that allowed it to enter new competitive markets but also required it to divest its operating companies; and,

WHEREAS:

Although deregulation of the telephone industry is virtually complete, AT&T and the operating companies still face some regulations which their competitors do not:

• New companies may easily change rates or services, while AT&T must still go through an elaborate and time-consuming process with the FCC;
• The regional operating companies find it difficult to enter into new business ventures because of restrictions imposed by the divestiture agreement, while firms providing competing services are free to merge with equipment manufacturers — for example, IBM and Rolm;
• The regional operating companies are required to provide long distance service within the state to all subscribers regardless of the costs involved, and must deal with regulations covering these services, but their competitors — new entrants — can target the most profitable subscribers and are freer from restrictive regulations.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME will support public policies that recognize the need to encourage and protect a major national asset, our telephone system; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME will support public policies that permit AT&T to compete fairly and fully in the telecommunications marketplace to the benefit of both its employees and the public; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME will develop and support public policies that will assure that the emerging technology in telecommunications will help workers to enrich their work and personal lives, and will avoid the negative impact of displacement of workers.