A Look Back and Ahead at the National Press Club, Washington D.C.
On February 12, 2024, the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., will host a milestone event marking the 20th anniversary of a decision that transformed the telecommunications landscape: the Pulver Order. This seminal moment, which occurred two decades ago, represented a major leap forward in the evolution of digital communication. It laid the foundation for the explosive growth of Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) services by establishing them as unregulated information services under the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) jurisdiction.
The Architects of Change: Celebrating Visionary Leadership
This 20th-anniversary event isn’t just a trip down memory lane. It’s a tribute to the visionaries whose foresight and determination reshaped the world of telecommunications. We’ll be honoring key figures such as:
- Jeff Pulver, the pioneering founder of Von and Vonage, whose advocacy and vision were crucial in the creation of the Pulver Order.
- Michael Powell, the then FCC Chairman, whose leadership was instrumental in the realization of this regulatory milestone. Powell, now at the helm of the National Cable Television Association, continues to be a significant figure in the telecom sector.
- Attorney Glenn Richards, a legal expert from Pillsbury, Winthrop, Shaw, Pittman, whose proficiency in telecommunications law played a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of this groundbreaking regulation.
The Pulver Order: Pioneering a New Era in Communication
The FCC’s Pulver Order was a game-changer. By exempting VoIP from traditional telecommunications regulations, the FCC not only deregulated a key area of technology but also ignited a spark of innovation that burns brightly to this day. This move effectively shielded Internet applications from restrictive economic regulations, fostering an environment ripe for technological advancement and stability. This stability was crucial in eliminating barriers to investment and deployment, accelerating the growth and diversification of Internet applications and services.
A Forward-Looking Forum
As we gather at the National Press Club, we do so not just to celebrate a historic decision but also to set the stage for discussions about the future trajectory of VoIP technology. This event is as much about looking forward as it is about looking back.
Join Us in the Celebration
- Date: Monday, February 12, 2024
- Time: 9 AM
- Location: National Press Club, Washington, D.C.
We cordially invite you to join us as we celebrate this pivotal moment in telecommunications history and explore the future possibilities it has unlocked.