WASHINGTON WATCH:

DIGITAL PHONE TAPS

Two telecommunications groups want a federal court to find that law
enforcement agencies are overstepping a law aimed at preserving their
ability to tap telephone and other communications in the digital age.

The Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association and Personal
Communications Industry Association, which represent cellular, paging and
other wireless companies, filed suit Monday in a federal court against the
Department of Justice and the FBI.

The dispute concerns whether the government or industry should pay to
modify telecommunications equipment installed on or before Jan. 1, 1995, so
it can be wiretapped digitally. The telecommunications groups say a 1994
law requires the government to pay.

The suit contends the FBI, in regulations issued last year, redefined what
equipment costs would be covered by the government - in a move to shift
more of the burden to companies. The suit seeks to have the FBI's
definition overturned.

The FBI said its regulations are consistent with the law.

©1998 San Francisco Examiner