Brief Description: Extending the prohibition on mandatory local measured telecommunications service.

Sponsors: Representatives Blake, Wallace, Dunshee, Sullivan, Bush, Benson, Simpson, G., Crouse, Hankins, Delvin, Quall, McCoy, Lantz, Kenney, Chase and Edwards.

Hearing Date: 1/30/04

Staff: Kiki Keizer (786-7109).

Background:

Most telephone customers in Washington pay a flat monthly rate for local telephone service. Many of the local exchange companies offer their customers the option of paying for local calls on a per call basis. This practice is commonly known as local measured service. Under this option, the telephone customer pays a lower monthly rate and then pays for the calls actually made, based on factors such as the time of day, length of call, and distance of the call.

Telecommunications service providers file tariffs or price lists with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC). In 1984 the Legislature temporarily prohibited the WUTC from approving telecommunications tariffs that include mandatory local measured service. The prohibition also does not apply to mobile services, pay telephone services, or to any other service that has traditionally been offered on a measured basis.

The prohibition has been extended a few times, most recently in 2001, and is set to expire June 1, 2004.

Summary of Bill:

The prohibition on mandatory local measured service is extended for four years until June 1, 2008.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.