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After months of debate, discussion, advocacy and anxiety, the details are finally coming into focus on the full impact of the comprehensive FCC Order. This new blueprint for our collective future points out the need as never before for solid business plans, targeted use of resources, and strong, strategic partnerships. It also places a higher value on innovative thinking, new technological solutions and collaborative efforts --- all opportunities available to members active in our association.
As we begin to look toward the end of 2011 and the beginning of a new year, I’d like to highlight some of the accomplishments we have achieved together.
Reaching Out to a New Group of Policy Makers Under the Dome
Due to state term limits, the 2010 election ushered in more than 80 new members to the Missouri House and a dozen new state Senators. This new cadre of lawmakers arrived at the State Capitol in January eager to go to work but woefully uninformed about our industry. Working through the MTIA Legislative Affairs Committee, a member task force outlined, drafted and produced a comprehensive but to-the-point briefing on our industry. Although the new crop of legislators proved to be a “moving target” due to hectic schedules
and numerous issues, MTIA worked to educate House and Senate members and keep the interest of our industry on the agenda.
The 2011 legislative session saw passage of a pair of bills that will provide new operational and regulatory flexibility to Missouri’s telecommunications providers. No detrimental legislation made it through the process. The association’s work in the Capitol focused on the progress of several perennial issues -- OPC funding, wireless 911 taxes, data center tax incentives and other core issues. All in all, a good year with a new cast – but stay tuned as the 2012 session opens with the impact of another high-profile election year and a tight state budget.
Relationships Still Key in Regulatory Arena
Even as new state laws lessen the role of the Missouri Public Service Commission in our daily operations, it is important to consider the need to maintain solid working relationships with key Commission policy makers. Working though the MTIA Regulatory Affairs Committee, the association was at the table as the Commission revised the caller ID rule, opened a docket on diverse suppliers, considered changes to the ETC rule, drafted a broadband report to the legislature, grappled with the call termination issue and determined
the impact of new telecom laws on state regulatory policy. Our active participation helped to shape these policies to the benefit of our member companies, their customers and investors.
A New Opportunity for Bi-State Collaboration
This year MTIA planned and produced the first joint annual conference between our organization and the Arkansas Telecommunications Association. The event was well received by members from both states and generated a new collaborative effort that will pay dividends in 2012 and beyond. Although the annual conference is our signature event, association members also continue to take advantage of our MATSS regional trade show, the spring Industry Affairs Conference, our Show Me mini trade show and special events like the POTS to PIPES front office training in September.
Even in a high-tech industry like ours, personal relationships still determine the success of most business endeavors. Our portfolio of industry meetings focuses on building key business connections and exploring new opportunities for our members’ mutual benefit.
Broadband Focus Will Drive Policy, Programs and Industry Potential
This year saw a state-wide emphasis by Missouri’s 19 regional planning councils to get citizens, community
stakeholders and industry members involved in a robust and far-ranging discussion on the future
deployment of broadband networks. The effort to maximize broadband’s contribution to economic development
will continue to challenge the industry to respond as Missourians focus on finding its potential. The association worked this year to get its members engaged in the dialogue and have a seat at the table. The ever-increasing shift from circuit-switched voice services to advanced broadband networks will continue
to influence the course of public policy, and the role of the association, into the future.
A Simple Thank You
I certainly realize that the work of the association is absolutely dependent on the financial support you provide. In these challenging economic times, I am committed to giving you a valuable return on your investment in the association. There are great opportunities ahead, and together we’ll make the most of them. Just as a rising tide raises all boats, our mutual efforts pay dividends that benefit our individual business
goals.
As always, I want to thank you for your continuing membership in the association. Your support is critical to our mutual success.
Sincerely,
Richard Telthorst, CAE
President
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