[Ellesu]

The panel’s probe also found that Louisiana has not spent $58 million in first-responder grants dating back to 2003, Collins said. The state only uses 16 percent of its funding for communications, half the national average, she said.

WTH did they do with the money?

[PAR35]

MCI was denied access to the New Orleans area by Louisiana State Police, who told company officials they needed a letter from Gov. Kathleen Blanco.

Sounds like the folks at MCI didn't know the proper response to a Lousiana shake down. For the proper payments to the appropriate intermediary, the letter should have been forthcoming.

[Bogey78O]

Some telecommunication companies are better prepared for emergencies and foolish gov't response then others.

:)