WASHINGTON-The Federal Communications Commission is set today to begin receiving electronic applications for Part 22 Paging licenses using the Universal Licensing System. This is the first time an existing wireless service will be able to use the system to process applications. ULS previously has been used for 800 MHz specialized mobile radio and local multipoint distribution service.
ULS consolidates various forms used for wireless applications and allows for automated application checking and enhanced electronic access to licensing information. The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau today has 11 licensing systems that process application requests and issue authorizations. In addition to reforming these systems, ULS also has a software-mapping program designed to help prospective licensees and small businesses better identify new spectrum opportunities from the privacy of their home or office.
The FCC is encouraging paging applicants and licensees to use ULS for paging-related applications, amendments, modifications and requests for special temporary authority. The FCC expects to receive 2,000 paging renewal applications this month. The conversion to ULS does not change existing restrictions on filing initial paging applications in anticipation of the upcoming Part 22 paging channel auction. Applications that fail to comply with these restrictions will be dismissed.
Applicants using ULS access a wide area network to process information. When an applicant submits its application online, ULS will assign a file number and will print a form that must be sent with the correct payment to Mellon Bank within five business days. In the near future, ULS will be capable of accepting credit-card payments online.
The FCC anticipates that all wireless applications will be processed using ULS in the near future but has stepped away from requiring exclusive electronic filing for the paging service. When the FCC announced the conversion to ULS earlier this year, it suggested that electronic filings for all services would be mandatory come January.
This fast-approaching deadline concerns industry players, which submitted comments last week urging the FCC to accept paper applications in case of computer bugs. The Federal Communications Bar Association suggested that instead of requiring electronic filing Jan. 1, the FCC first “institute a `beta testing’ program to help identify potential problems.”
One law firm, Bennett and Bennett, said that in addition to allowing paper applications, the FCC should set up computer labs in its field offices and in Washington, D.C. Additionally, “When and if the [FCC] moves to the Portals, the [FCC] also should provide at least 15 computers at a downtown location at the vicinity of the FCC’s current offices to better afford public access to ULS.”
Notwithstanding the concerns about the mandatory conversion to the paperless world, many commenters applauded the FCC on its proposals. ULS will make information more readily available to interested parties, not just telecommunications lawyers, proponents said.
