JOSEPH EAVES

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their consumers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the associations members to continue effectively serving rural economically challenging markets. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a drastic modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period, in addition to discussing the issues outlined above, association representatives specifically discussed the following bills with policymakers: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 3428 -- To facilitate the deployment by the private sector of broadband telecommunications networks and capabilities (including wireless and satellite networks and capabilities) to underserved rural areas through federal grants and loans-all sections. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored and reacted to and develop proposals that will impact the operations of rural communications providers and the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets few or no other entities have cared to serve. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomical hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services companies are providing to rural Americans. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a mobile fashion. The association from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-members alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members and the rural populace recognize that an appropriate opeerating environment is essential if small rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on issues and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or issue some form of public statement, letter, memo on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many member of Congress that wanted to see the Federal State Joint Board recommendations on universal service implemented. Likewise, we continued discussions in intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also wise, we discussed spectrum and digitial television transition issues with offices as well as baordband deployment and rural policy in general. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following bills: H.R. 278-To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extension Act - Title 6 Rural Development-subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention on the Boardband Program. H.R. 3281-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 3403-A bill to promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities. H.R. 3541-To amend the Do-not-call Implementation Act of eliminate the automatic removal of telephone numbers registered on the federal "do-not-call" registry. H.R. 3919-Broadband Census of America Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Commnunications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services, and for other purposes. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal services provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 215-Internet Freedom Preservation Act-A bill to ensure net neutrality-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service conributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antidificiency Act-all sections. S. 1492-Broadband Date Improvement Act-all sections. S. 1853-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. S. 2302-A bill to provide for the continuation of agriculture programs through fY 2012-sections related to Rural Utilities Service Broadband Program.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Health: H.R.758 To require that health plans provide coverage for a minimum hospital stay for mastectomies, lumpectomies, and lymph node dissection for the treatment of breast cancer and coverage for secondary consultations all sections. H.R.2851 To amend the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that dependent students who take a medically necessary leave of absence do not lose health insurance coverage, and for other purposes all sections. H.R.6983 To amend section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, and section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, and for other purposes all sections. S.334 A bill to provide affordable, guaranteed private health coverage that will make Americans healthier and can never be taken away all sections. S.1693 A bill to enhance the adoption of a nationwide interoperable health information technology system and to improve the quality and reduce the costs of health care in the United States all sections. ERISA: H.R. 1424 To amend section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment all sections. General: S.558 A bill to provide parity between health insurance coverage of mental health benefits and benefits for medical and surgical services

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their consumers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the associations members to continue effectively serving rural economically challenging markets. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a drastic modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period, in addition to discussing the issues outlined above, association representatives specifically discussed the following bills with policymakers: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 3428 -- To facilitate the deployment by the private sector of broadband telecommunications networks and capabilities (including wireless and satellite networks and capabilities) to underserved rural areas through federal grants and loans-all sections. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored and reacted to and develop proposals that will impact the operations of rural communications providers and the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets few or no other entities have cared to serve. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomical hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services companies are providing to rural Americans. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a mobile fashion. The association from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-members alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members and the rural populace recognize that an appropriate opeerating environment is essential if small rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on issues and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or issue some form of public statement, letter, memo on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many member of Congress that wanted to see the Federal State Joint Board recommendations on universal service implemented. Likewise, we continued discussions in intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also wise, we discussed spectrum and digitial television transition issues with offices as well as baordband deployment and rural policy in general. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following bills: H.R. 278-To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extension Act - Title 6 Rural Development-subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention on the Boardband Program. H.R. 3281-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 3403-A bill to promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities. H.R. 3541-To amend the Do-not-call Implementation Act of eliminate the automatic removal of telephone numbers registered on the federal "do-not-call" registry. H.R. 3919-Broadband Census of America Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Commnunications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services, and for other purposes. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal services provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 215-Internet Freedom Preservation Act-A bill to ensure net neutrality-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service conributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antidificiency Act-all sections. S. 1492-Broadband Date Improvement Act-all sections. S. 1853-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. S. 2302-A bill to provide for the continuation of agriculture programs through fY 2012-sections related to Rural Utilities Service Broadband Program.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored and reacted to and develop proposals that will impact the operations of rural communications providers and the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets few or no other entities have cared to serve. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomical hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services companies are providing to rural Americans. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a mobile fashion. The association from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-members alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members and the rural populace recognize that an appropriate opeerating environment is essential if small rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on issues and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or issue some form of public statement, letter, memo on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many member of Congress that wanted to see the Federal State Joint Board recommendations on universal service implemented. Likewise, we continued discussions in intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also wise, we discussed spectrum and digitial television transition issues with offices as well as baordband deployment and rural policy in general. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following bills: H.R. 278-To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extension Act - Title 6 Rural Development-subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention on the Boardband Program. H.R. 3281-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 3403-A bill to promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities. H.R. 3541-To amend the Do-not-call Implementation Act of eliminate the automatic removal of telephone numbers registered on the federal "do-not-call" registry. H.R. 3919-Broadband Census of America Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Commnunications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services, and for other purposes. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal services provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 215-Internet Freedom Preservation Act-A bill to ensure net neutrality-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service conributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antidificiency Act-all sections. S. 1492-Broadband Date Improvement Act-all sections. S. 1853-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. S. 2302-A bill to provide for the continuation of agriculture programs through fY 2012-sections related to Rural Utilities Service Broadband Program.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their consumers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the associations members to continue effectively serving rural economically challenging markets. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a drastic modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period, in addition to discussing the issues outlined above, association representatives specifically discussed the following bills with policymakers: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 3428 -- To facilitate the deployment by the private sector of broadband telecommunications networks and capabilities (including wireless and satellite networks and capabilities) to underserved rural areas through federal grants and loans-all sections. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored and reacted to and develop proposals that will impact the operations of rural communications providers and the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets few or no other entities have cared to serve. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomical hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services companies are providing to rural Americans. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a mobile fashion. The association from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-members alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members and the rural populace recognize that an appropriate opeerating environment is essential if small rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on issues and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or issue some form of public statement, letter, memo on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many member of Congress that wanted to see the Federal State Joint Board recommendations on universal service implemented. Likewise, we continued discussions in intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also wise, we discussed spectrum and digitial television transition issues with offices as well as baordband deployment and rural policy in general. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following bills: H.R. 278-To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extension Act - Title 6 Rural Development-subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention on the Boardband Program. H.R. 3281-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 3403-A bill to promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities. H.R. 3541-To amend the Do-not-call Implementation Act of eliminate the automatic removal of telephone numbers registered on the federal "do-not-call" registry. H.R. 3919-Broadband Census of America Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Commnunications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services, and for other purposes. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal services provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 215-Internet Freedom Preservation Act-A bill to ensure net neutrality-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service conributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antidificiency Act-all sections. S. 1492-Broadband Date Improvement Act-all sections. S. 1853-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. S. 2302-A bill to provide for the continuation of agriculture programs through fY 2012-sections related to Rural Utilities Service Broadband Program.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high qaulity Retirement Security Plans to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: H.R. 3652 To amend title 11, United States Code, to improve protections for employees and retirees in business bankruptcies all sections. H.R. 6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, to provide individual income tax relief focus on sections regarding distributions from retirement plans to individuals called to active military service. H.R.6382 To make technical corrections related to the Pension Protection Act of 2006 all sections. S. 2092 To amend title 11, United States Code, to improve protections for employees and retirees in business bankruptcies all sections

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Retirement Security Plans to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: H.R. 3652-To amend Title 11, United States Code, to improve protections for employees and retirees in business bankruptcies-all sections. S. 2092-To amend Title 11, United States Code, to improve protections for employees and retirees in business bankruptcies-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Retirement Security Plans to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: H.R. 3652-To amend Title 11, United States Code, to improve protections for employees and retirees in business bankruptcies-all sections. S. 2092-To amend Title 11, United States Code, to improve protections for employees and retirees in business bankruptcies-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to and develop proposals that will impact the operations of rural communications providers and the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets few or no other entities have cared to serve. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomical hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services companies are providing to rural Americans. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a mobile fashion. The association from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-members alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members and the rural populace recognize that an appropriate opeerating environment is essential if small rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on issues and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or issue some form of public statement, letter, memo on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many member of Congress that wanted to see the Federal State Joint Board recommendations on universal service implemented. Likewise, we continued discussions in intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also wise, we discussed spectrum and digitial television transition issues with offices as well as baordband deployment and rural policy in general. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following bills: H.R. 278-To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extension Act - Title 6 Rural Development-subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention on the Boardband Program. H.R. 3281-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 3403-A bill to promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities. H.R. 3541-To amend the Do-not-call Implementation Act of eliminate the automatic removal of telephone numbers registered on the federal "do-not-call" registry. H.R. 3919-Broadband Census of America Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Commnunications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services, and for other purposes. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal services provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 215-Internet Freedom Preservation Act-A bill to ensure net neutrality-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service conributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antidificiency Act-all sections. S. 1492-Broadband Date Improvement Act-all sections. S. 1853-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. S. 2302-A bill to provide for the continuation of agriculture programs through fY 2012-sections related to Rural Utilities Service Broadband Program.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

The association often follows measures that are tied to rural and community economic development which typically have a direct connection to the type and level of communications services that may be available in a rural community or market area and that are often important to the survival of such communities and market areas. We continually visit with policymakers about the connection between advanced telecommunications technologies and the ability of rural communities to survive and contribute to the general economic and national security. During this reporting period, the association focused particular attention on several bills related to universal service and broadband, which are listed under the TEC subject heading. The association also focused particular attention on the following legislation: Telework/Telecommute: H.R. 4106- To improve teleworking in executive agencies by developing a telework program that allows employees to telework at least 20 percent of the hours worked in every two administrative workweeks and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 5727- To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants for the establishment of information technology centers in rural areas-all sections. S. 1000-To enhance the Federal Telework Program by requiring each federal executive agency, within a prescribed time period, to establish a policy that to the maximum extent possible, without diminishing employee performance or agency operation, allows for each employee to participate in telework-all sections.

The association often follows measures that are tied to rural and community economic development which typically have a direct connection to the type and level of communications services that may be available in a rural community or market area and that are often important to the survival of such communities and market areas. We continually visit with policymakers about the connection between advanced telecommunications technologies and the ability of rural communities to survive and contribute to the general economic and national security. During this reporting period, the association focused particular attention on several bills related to universal service and broadband, which are listed under the TEC subject heading. The association also focused particular attention on the following legislation: Telework/Telecommute: H.R. 4106- To improve teleworking in executive agencies by developing a telework program that allows employees to telework at least 20 percent of the hours worked in every two administrative workweeks and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 5727- To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants for the establishment of information technology centers in rural areas-all sections. S. 1000-To enhance the Federal Telework Program by requiring each federal executive agency, within a prescribed time period, to establish a policy that to the maximum extent possible, without diminishing employee performance or agency operation, allows for each employee to participate in telework-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Military Personnel: H.R. 463-To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority")-all sections. S. 1147- To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority 8")-all sections ERISA: H.R. 1424-To amend Section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, Section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, Section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment-all sections. General: S. 558-A bill to provide parity between health insurance coverage of mental health benefits and benefits for medical and surgical services-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Military Personnel: H.R. 463-To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority")-all sections. S. 1147- To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority 8")-all sections ERISA: H.R. 1424-To amend Section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, Section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, Section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment-all sections. General: S. 558-A bill to provide parity between health insurance coverage of mental health benefits and benefits for medical and surgical services-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their consumers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the associations members to continue effectively serving rural economically challenging markets. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a drastic modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period, in addition to discussing the issues outlined above, association representatives specifically discussed the following bills with policymakers: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 3428 -- To facilitate the deployment by the private sector of broadband telecommunications networks and capabilities (including wireless and satellite networks and capabilities) to underserved rural areas through federal grants and loans-all sections. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored and reacted to and develop proposals that will impact the operations of rural communications providers and the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets few or no other entities have cared to serve. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomical hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services companies are providing to rural Americans. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a mobile fashion. The association from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-members alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members and the rural populace recognize that an appropriate opeerating environment is essential if small rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on issues and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or issue some form of public statement, letter, memo on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many member of Congress that wanted to see the Federal State Joint Board recommendations on universal service implemented. Likewise, we continued discussions in intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also wise, we discussed spectrum and digitial television transition issues with offices as well as baordband deployment and rural policy in general. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following bills: H.R. 278-To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extension Act - Title 6 Rural Development-subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention on the Boardband Program. H.R. 3281-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 3403-A bill to promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities. H.R. 3541-To amend the Do-not-call Implementation Act of eliminate the automatic removal of telephone numbers registered on the federal "do-not-call" registry. H.R. 3919-Broadband Census of America Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Commnunications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services, and for other purposes. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal services provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 215-Internet Freedom Preservation Act-A bill to ensure net neutrality-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service conributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antidificiency Act-all sections. S. 1492-Broadband Date Improvement Act-all sections. S. 1853-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. S. 2302-A bill to provide for the continuation of agriculture programs through fY 2012-sections related to Rural Utilities Service Broadband Program.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

The association often follows measures that are tied to rural and community economic development which typically have a direct connection to the type and level of communications services that may be available in a rural community or market area and that are often important to the survival of such communities and market areas. We continually visit with policymakers about the connection between advanced telecommunications technologies and the ability of rural communities to survive and contribute to the general economic and national security. During this reporting period, the association focused particular attention on several bills related to universal service and broadband, which are listed under the TEC subject heading. The association also focused particular attention on the following legislation: Telework/Telecommute: H.R. 4106- To improve teleworking in executive agencies by developing a telework program that allows employees to telework at least 20 percent of the hours worked in every two administrative workweeks and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 5727- To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants for the establishment of information technology centers in rural areas-all sections. S. 1000-To enhance the Federal Telework Program by requiring each federal executive agency, within a prescribed time period, to establish a policy that to the maximum extent possible, without diminishing employee performance or agency operation, allows for each employee to participate in telework-all sections.

The association often follows measures that are tied to rural and community economic development which typically have a direct connection to the type and level of communications services that may be available in a rural community or market area, and that are often important to the survival of such communities and market areas. We continually visit with policymakers about the connection between advanced telecommunications technologies and the ability of rural communities to survive and contribute to the general economic and national security. H.R. 5727-To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants for the establishment of information technology centers in rural areas.

The association often follows measures that are tied to rural and community economic development which typically have a direct connection to the type and level of communications services that may be available in a rural community or market area and that are often important to the survival of such communities and market areas. We continually visit with policymakers about the connection between advanced telecommunications technologies and the ability of rural communities to survive and contribute to the general economic and national security. During this reporting period, the association focused particular attention on several bills related to universal service and broadband, which are listed under the TEC subject heading. The association also focused particular attention on the following legislation: Telework/Telecommute: H.R. 4106- To improve teleworking in executive agencies by developing a telework program that allows employees to telework at least 20 percent of the hours worked in every two administrative workweeks and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 5727- To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants for the establishment of information technology centers in rural areas-all sections. S. 1000-To enhance the Federal Telework Program by requiring each federal executive agency, within a prescribed time period, to establish a policy that to the maximum extent possible, without diminishing employee performance or agency operation, allows for each employee to participate in telework-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their consumers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the associations members to continue effectively serving rural economically challenging markets. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a drastic modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period, in addition to discussing the issues outlined above, association representatives specifically discussed the following bills with policymakers: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 3428 -- To facilitate the deployment by the private sector of broadband telecommunications networks and capabilities (including wireless and satellite networks and capabilities) to underserved rural areas through federal grants and loans-all sections. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Retirement Security Plans to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: ERISA: H.R. 6143 Pension Protection Act ERISA Amendments Act of 2008 all sections. H.R. 7327 Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Health: H.R.758 To require that health plans provide coverage for a minimum hospital stay for mastectomies, lumpectomies, and lymph node dissection for the treatment of breast cancer and coverage for secondary consultations all sections. H.R.2851 To amend the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that dependent students who take a medically necessary leave of absence do not lose health insurance coverage, and for other purposes all sections. H.R.6983 To amend section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, and section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, and for other purposes all sections. S.334 A bill to provide affordable, guaranteed private health coverage that will make Americans healthier and can never be taken away all sections. S.1693 A bill to enhance the adoption of a nationwide interoperable health information technology system and to improve the quality and reduce the costs of health care in the United States all sections. ERISA: H.R. 1424 To amend section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment all sections. General: S.558 A bill to provide parity between health insurance coverage of mental health benefits and benefits for medical and surgical services

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention to the following: Health: H.R. 7129-Several approaches to Reduce Uninsured Act of 2008-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Retirement Security Plans to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: ERISA: H.R. 6143 Pension Protection Act ERISA Amendments Act of 2008 all sections. H.R. 7327 Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Health: H.R.758 To require that health plans provide coverage for a minimum hospital stay for mastectomies, lumpectomies, and lymph node dissection for the treatment of breast cancer and coverage for secondary consultations all sections. H.R.2851 To amend the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that dependent students who take a medically necessary leave of absence do not lose health insurance coverage, and for other purposes all sections. H.R.6983 To amend section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, and section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, and for other purposes all sections. S.334 A bill to provide affordable, guaranteed private health coverage that will make Americans healthier and can never be taken away all sections. S.1693 A bill to enhance the adoption of a nationwide interoperable health information technology system and to improve the quality and reduce the costs of health care in the United States all sections. ERISA: H.R. 1424 To amend section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment all sections. General: S.558 A bill to provide parity between health insurance coverage of mental health benefits and benefits for medical and surgical services

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

The association often follows measures that are tied to rural and community economic development which typically have a direct connection to the type and level of communications services that may be available in a rural community or market area and that are often important to the survival of such communities and market areas. We continually visit with policymakers about the connection between advanced telecommunications technologies and the ability of rural communities to survive and contribute to the general economic and national security. During this reporting period, the association focused particular attention on several bills related to universal service and broadband, which are listed under the TEC subject heading. The association also focused particular attention on the following legislation: Telework/Telecommute: H.R. 4106- To improve teleworking in executive agencies by developing a telework program that allows employees to telework at least 20 percent of the hours worked in every two administrative workweeks and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 5727- To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants for the establishment of information technology centers in rural areas-all sections. S. 1000-To enhance the Federal Telework Program by requiring each federal executive agency, within a prescribed time period, to establish a policy that to the maximum extent possible, without diminishing employee performance or agency operation, allows for each employee to participate in telework-all sections.

The association often follows measures that are tied to rural and community economic development which typically have a direct connection to the type and level of communications services that may be available in a rural community or market area and that are often important to the survival of such communities and market areas. We continually visit with policymakers about the connection between advanced telecommunications technologies and the ability of rural communities to survive and contribute to the general economic and national security. During this reporting period, the association focused particular attention on several bills related to universal service and broadband, which are listed under the TEC subject heading. The association also focused particular attention on the following legislation: Telework/Telecommute: H.R. 4106- To improve teleworking in executive agencies by developing a telework program that allows employees to telework at least 20 percent of the hours worked in every two administrative workweeks and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 5727- To authorize the Secretary of Labor to make grants for the establishment of information technology centers in rural areas-all sections. S. 1000-To enhance the Federal Telework Program by requiring each federal executive agency, within a prescribed time period, to establish a policy that to the maximum extent possible, without diminishing employee performance or agency operation, allows for each employee to participate in telework-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Military Personnel: H.R. 463-To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority")-all sections. S. 1147- To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority 8")-all sections ERISA: H.R. 1424-To amend Section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, Section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, Section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment-all sections. General: S. 558-A bill to provide parity between health insurance coverage of mental health benefits and benefits for medical and surgical services-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and discussed policy concepts that will ensure NTCA is able to continue offering its high quality Group Health Plan to members, their employees and the association staff at affordable rates and on reasonable terms and conditions. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Military Personnel: H.R. 463-To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority")-all sections. S. 1147- To amend Title 38, United States Code, to terminate the administrative freeze on the enrollment into the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs of veterans in the lowest priority category for enrollment (referred to as "Priority 8")-all sections ERISA: H.R. 1424-To amend Section 712 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, Section 2705 of the Public Health Service Act, Section 9812 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require equity in the provision of mental health and substance-related disorder benefits under group health plans, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment-all sections. General: S. 558-A bill to provide parity between health insurance coverage of mental health benefits and benefits for medical and surgical services-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder operations of rural community based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention to the following: Estate Tax-Discussed the issue in general with different policymakers and committees. S. Con. Res. 70-Estate Tax Amendments: Bacus#4160, Salazar#4196, Kyl#4191, Landrieu, Kyl #4372. Telephone Excise Tax- H.R. 1194-to amend the Internal Revenue Service Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services - all sections. S. 140- to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other commnications services-all sections. S. 170 - to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services- all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to and develop proposals that will impact the operations of rural communications providers and the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets few or no other entities have cared to serve. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomical hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services companies are providing to rural Americans. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a mobile fashion. The association from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-members alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members and the rural populace recognize that an appropriate opeerating environment is essential if small rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on issues and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or issue some form of public statement, letter, memo on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many member of Congress that wanted to see the Federal State Joint Board recommendations on universal service implemented. Likewise, we continued discussions in intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also wise, we discussed spectrum and digitial television transition issues with offices as well as baordband deployment and rural policy in general. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following bills: H.R. 278-To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extension Act - Title 6 Rural Development-subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention on the Boardband Program. H.R. 3281-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 3403-A bill to promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities. H.R. 3541-To amend the Do-not-call Implementation Act of eliminate the automatic removal of telephone numbers registered on the federal "do-not-call" registry. H.R. 3919-Broadband Census of America Act of 2007-all sections. H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Commnunications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services, and for other purposes. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal services provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 215-Internet Freedom Preservation Act-A bill to ensure net neutrality-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service conributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antidificiency Act-all sections. S. 1492-Broadband Date Improvement Act-all sections. S. 1853-Community Broadband Act of 2007-all sections. S. 2302-A bill to provide for the continuation of agriculture programs through fY 2012-sections related to Rural Utilities Service Broadband Program.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural telecommunications providers, their customers, and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the rural economically challenging markets. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and unecomonic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the associations members are in fact providing. Maintaining a balanced formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association bases its approaches on whether or not policies are flexible in their application to rural carriers that have different needs and capabilities and that have far different economies of scale and competitive opportunities than larger carriers. As in the past, the association does from time to time compare notes and informally coordinate messaging with others, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The associations advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public about issues that are related to the provision of telecommunications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and their related rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure they understood the modifications in the universal service and intercarrier compensation cost recovery mechanisms that rural providers rely upon. We also routinely discuss access to spectrum, video programming and its equitable distribution and data transmission and all that entails. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419 Farm Bill Extension Act Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. H.R. 6124 To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through fiscal year 2012, and for other purposes emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping, and national broadband policy. S. 1492 To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831 To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281 To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. S. 1853 To promote competition, and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353 To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summits to assess competition, consumer protection, and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services all sections. H.R. 5994 To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet all sections. S. 215 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality all sections. Safety & Security: H.R. 3403 To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911 and E-911 services, encourage the Nations transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities all sections. H.R. 3773 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248 To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: Presidents Budget Request for FY 2009 Discussions surrounding the digital television transition, and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the associations membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commissions authority to auction radio spectrum. Also held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commissions ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. H.R.1597 To require the FCC to issue a final order regarding television white spaces all sections. Spoofing: H.R. 251 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. H.R. 740 To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing all sections. S. 704 To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information all sections. S. 1654 To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964 To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmission of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs all sections. H.R. 1525 To amend title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses all sections. S. 2168 To amend title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278 To amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act all sections. H.R. 2054 Universal Service Reform Act of 2007 to reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1954 and for other purposes all sections. H.R. 6356 To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S.101 A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934 all sections. S. 609 A bill to amend section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act all sections S. 2919 To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored, reacted to, and/or developed proposals and/or initiatives that will impact the operations of rural communications providers, their consumers and/or the association. With regard to the measures listed below, the association is committed to pursuing a policy environment that allows the association's members to continue serving the high cost markets others have often overlooked. The association's primary objective in this regard is to ensure artificial and uneconomic hurdles and barriers are not placed in their way as they attempt to provide such rural communications services. The association believes in setting the appropriate stage to provide rural carriers with the necessary tools to allow adequate cost recovery for the infrastructure and services policymakers and the public are demanding, and that the association's members are, in fact, providing. Maintaining a balance formula of cost recovery consisting of fair consumer rates, appropriate intercarrier compensation, and adequate universal service are all key to this objective. The association further believes that competitive entrants to the business should be willing to live up to the same industry responsibilities surrounding these concepts that incumbent rural carriers have met for decades. In addition, the association strongly advocates for fair access to all forms of content and infrastructure whether in voice, video, or data formats and whether provided via land line or in a moble fashion. The association has from time to time compared notes and informally coordinated messaging with both members and non-member alike, but ultimately identifies, develops, and carries out all lobbying strategies and activities individually, under its own name. The association's advocacy efforts revolve entirely around the premise of informing and educating policymakers and the public alike about issues that are related to the provision of communications services in rural America. NTCA, its members, and rural consumers recognize that an appropriate operating environment is essential if rural providers are to be able to continue doing the effective entrepreneurial job that they always have in providing superior communications services to rural Americans. There were issues where the association did not focus on legislation itself, but rather focused on concepts and worked with different members of Congress to help them understand the related issues and/or to develop and distribute some form of public statement on the given subject. For example, we worked with a number of offices to try to ensure that the Federal Communications Commission understood that there were many members of Congress that are opposed to a reverse auction distribution methodolgy for universal service support. Likewise, we continued discussions on intercarrier compensation as well as phantom traffic and other cost recovery issues. We also discussed spectrum and digital television transmission issues with offices as well as braodband deployment and access to video programming and to the Internet backbone. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following measures and initiatives: Broadband Deployment: H.R. 2419-Farm Bill Extention Act-Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to RUS programs with particular attention to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. H.R. 3919-To provide for a comprehensive nationwide inventory of existing broadband service through mapping broadband availability-all sections. H.R. 6124-To provide for the continuation of agricultural and other programs of the Department of Agriculture through FY 2012, and for other purposes-emphasis on the Title 6 Rural Development subsections related to the RUS Broadband Program, broadband mapping and national broadband policy. S. 1190-To promote the deployment and adoption of telecommunications services and information technologies through mapping broadband availability-all sections. S. 1492-To improve the quality of federal and state data regarding the availability and quality of broadband services and to promote the deployment of affordable broadband services to all parts of the nation through mapping broadband availability-all sections. Federal Trade Commission: S. 2831-To reauthorize the Federal Trade Commission-section related to the repeal of the common carrier exemption from the Federal Trade Commission oversight. Government Owned Networks: H.R. 3281-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. S. 1853-To promote competition and to preserve the ability of local governments to provide broadband capability and services-all sections. Net Neutrality: H.R. 5353-To establish broadband policy and direct the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a proceeding and public broadband summit to assess competition, consumer protection and consumer choice issues relating to broadband Internet access services-all sections. H.R. 5994-To amend the Clayton Act with respect to competitive and nondiscriminatory access to the Internet-all sections. S. 215-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure net neutrality-all sections. Safety and Security: H.R. 3403-To promote and enhance public safety by facilitating the rapid deployment of IP-enabled 911and E-911 services, encourage the nation's transition to a national IP-enabled emergency network, and improve 911 and E-911 access to those with disabilities-all sections. H.R. 3773-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. H.R. 5540-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign intelligence-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. S. 2248-To amend the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to modernize and streamline the provisions of that act-sections relating to retroactive immunity for communications providers that responded to administration demands for warrantless communications surveillance. Spectrum: H.R. 1597-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S. 234-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. S.337-To require the Federal Communications Commission to issue a final order regarding television white spaces-all sections. President's Budget Request for FY 2009-Discussions surrounding the digital television transition and 700 MHz distribution with emphasis on the initiatives of the association's membership in helping with the DTV transition as well as with regard to the ongoing difficulties they have in acquiring spectrum through the auction process, and thus why it would not be advisable to permanently extend the Federal Communications Commission's authority to auction radio spectrum. Also, held numerous discussions about the Federal Communications Commission's ongoing inability to apply and adhere appropriately to the parameters of Section 309(j) of the Communications Act of 1934. Spoofing: H.R. 251-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. H.R. 740-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing-all sections. S. 704-To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information-all sections. S. 1654-To prohibit the sale or provision of caller ID spoofing services-all sections. Spyware: H.R. 964-To protect users of the Internet from unknowing transmissions of their personally identifiable information through spyware programs-all sections. H.R. 1525-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to discourage spyware programs and uses-all sections. S. 2168-To amend Title 18, United States Code, to enable increased federal prosecution of identity theft crimes and to allow for restitution to victims of identity theft. Universal Service/Intercarrier Compensation/Cost Recovery: H.R. 278-To amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Anti-Deficiency Act-all sections. H.R. 2054-Universal Service Reform Act of 2007-To reform the universal service provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 and for other purposes-all sections. H.R. 6356-To reform the collection and distribution of universal service support under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 101-A bill to update and reinvigorate universal service provided under the Communications Act of 1934-all sections. S. 609-A bill to amend Section 254 of the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that funds received as universal service contributions and the universal service support programs established pursuant to that section are not subject to certain provisions of Title 31, United States Code, commonly known as the Antideficiency Act-all sections. S. 2919-To promote the accurate transmission of network traffic identification information-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which inhibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period, the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. H.R. 3996 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R.6049 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA benefit plans. S. 2342 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007 all sections. S. 2389 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. H.R.3997 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnel all sections. H.R.5793 To restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property all sections. H.R.6081 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel all sections. S. 140 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.166 To restrict any State from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services all sections. S. 170 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services all sections. S.3249 A bill to restrict any State or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on mobile wireless communications services, providers, or property all sections.

Monitored and reacted to proposals tied to the federal excise tax on communications which is unfairly applied to different communications services, the federal estate tax, which prohibits the transfer of rural telcos and other rural assets to heirs, and other taxation initiatives that may help or hinder the operations of rural community-based communications providers. Also focused attention on the full implementation of the Sarbanes-Oxley statute that has the potential to create many financial burdens on small business entities such as rural communications providers. During the reporting period the association focused particular attention on the following: Miscellaneous Tax: H.R. 3861-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the AMT refundable credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimun tax liability-all sections. H.R. 3996-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions-all sections. Also the resolution for consideration, H. Res. 809. H.R. 5558-To limit the discriminatory taxation of oil pipeline property-all sections. H.R. 6049-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy production and conservation, to extend certain expiring provisions, and to provide individual income tax relief-sections relating to tax expirations affecting small businesses and NTCA. benefit plans. S. 2342-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide alternative minimum tax relief for 2007 and to provide special tax rates for certain capital gains and qualified dividend income for 2007-all sections. S. 2389-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the alternative minimum tax credit amount for individuals with long-term unused credits for prior year minimum tax liability-all sections. Federal Excise Tax: H.R. 1194-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. H.R. 3997-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief and protections for military personnal-all sections. H.R. 5793-To restrict any state or local jurisdiction from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services, providers, or property-all sections. H.R. 6081-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide benefits for military personnel-all sections. S. 140-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections. S. 166-To restrict any state from imposing a new discriminatory tax on cell phone services-all sections. S. 170-To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on telephone and other communications services-all sections.