FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                                News Media contact:
December 6, 1999                                                         Linda Paris  (202) 418-0500

                                
         Statement of FCC Chairman William E. Kennard 
                  on AT&T-MindSpring Agreement


     Today's agreement is a good first step toward providing consumers with a choice
     of Internet Service Providers without paying twice. I applaud the companies and the
     public interest advocates who participated in these discussions for their good faith efforts.

     While government regulation now would only slow down broadband deployment,
     the constructive dialogue evidenced by today's developments should hasten consumer
     access to multiple high-speed Internet options. 

     The Internet is a rapidly growing and competitive force. Americans want multiple
     options for high-speed Internet access. I encourage the stakeholders to continue to
     develop market-driven solutions to serve consumer needs.  

                            - FCC -