VRS Order Draws Objections From Sorenson, Praise From Smaller Rivals

Sorenson criticized and smaller video relay service rivals backed the FCC's order that further cut a compensation rate targeting Sorenson's high-volume traffic while effectively increasing the rates for lower-volume tiers (see 1707060062). "[W]e are very disappointed with the rates set by the FCC and the Commission’s determination to extend an ineffective and costly tier subsidy, already a decade old, to inefficient VRS providers," emailed Sorenson Chief Market Officer Paul Kershisnik Friday. "[T]he newest rate scheme will not uphold the [Americans With Disabilities Act's] promise of functionally equivalent service for the Deaf." Convo Communications, a small provider, praised FCC Chairman Ajit Pai for expanding communications access for people with disabilities through market forces: "Contrary to Sorenson's claims, the meticulously crafted Order sets into place a tiered compensation structure which will promote greater quality of services and innovation through competition while protecting the integrity of the ratepayer funded VRS program by preventing the overcompensation of VRS providers." The order "also correctly represents the Commission's commitment to wireless technology by denying the funding of costly equipment Sorenson claims is necessary to distribute to consumers for free to use VRS. In its order, the Commission makes a forceful push for the greater use of new mobile technologies that are readily available to download or commercially obtain off-the-shelves for use with VRS. Convo sees this move to mobile services, along with the Order's mandated videophone interoperability standards, as the impetus for an evolving VRS program which gives consumers more independence and choices using an increasingly efficiently compensated service." Angela Roth, CEO of GlobalVRS, another small provider, said her company acknowledges all the FCC work "on the rate adjustment in consideration of the historic and disproportioned advantages that have been held predominately by the largest providers. The Commission’s continuing work towards leveling the playing field and ensuring competition will allow the deaf community the right of choice, in keeping with functional equivalency that hearing community has always enjoyed.” ZVRS, the second-largest provider, didn't comment. Meanwhile, the FCC sought comment on a Sorenson petition for partial reconsideration of a VRS interoperability order, said a public notice Friday in docket 10-51. It said oppositions will be due 15 days after publication of the PN in the Federal Register.