H-4868.1          _______________________________________________

 

                                  HOUSE BILL 2991

                  _______________________________________________

 

State of Washington              52nd Legislature             1992 Regular Session

 

By Representatives Jacobsen, R. Fisher and Nelson

 

Read first time 02/21/92.  Referred to Committee on Energy & Utilities.Requiring telecommunication companies to provide live operators.


     AN ACT Relating to assured availability of live telecommunications operators; amending RCW 80.36.090; and declaring an emergency.

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

 

     Sec. 1.  RCW 80.36.090 and 1985 c 450 s 23 are each amended to read as follows:

     (1) Every telecommunications company operating in this state shall provide and maintain suitable and adequate buildings and facilities therein, or connected therewith, for the accommodation, comfort and convenience of its patrons and employees.

     (2) Every telecommunications company shall, upon reasonable notice, furnish to all persons and corporations who may apply therefor and be reasonably entitled thereto suitable and proper facilities and connections for telephonic communication and furnish telephone service as demanded.

     (3) Every telecommunications company that provides operator services shall enable a caller to access a live operator at the beginning of a call by a means that is easily and readily understood.  This subsection shall not apply to telecommunications equipment located in prisons or jails.

 

     NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2.      This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately.