Sprint PCS told FCC in Jan. 8 ex parte filing that even if Commis...

was in place. Verizon Wireless in July had submitted forbearance petition for LNP requirements and Sprint PCS had urged agency to make decision by end of 2001. FCC rules require commercial mobile radio service carriers (CMRS) to support service provider LNP in top 100 metro areas by Nov. 24. That’s same deadline for when number pooling requirements kick in for wireless carriers. “It is critically important that CMRS carriers begin pooling in November 2002,” Sprint PCS said. “By contrast, there is no pressing need that LNP be implemented on that or any other date.” This year, wireless carriers also must put resources into implementation of Enhanced 911, Communications Assistance Act for Law Enforcement, TTY and other requirements, Sprint said. “Sprint PCS submits that CMRS carriers are being asked to do too much in the same time frame,” carrier said: “Again, the integrity of CMRS networks is being placed in jeopardy.” Sprint recommended that FCC: (1) Forbear from applying LNP mandate. (2) “Temporarily forbear for 3 years” if market conditions change, “reexamining the need for the LNP mandate beginning on the second anniversary of the temporary forbearance order.” Sprint said that alternative would let CMRS carriers focus on implementation of number pooling. “It will permit CMRS carriers to redivert capital from LNP implementation to expanding coverage and improving service quality [additional cell sites] and to deploying 3G networks and services -- the features that customers are demanding,” carrier said.