SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6430

As of January 23, 2004

Title: An act relating to extending the prohibition on mandatory local measured telecommunications service.

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

Sponsors: Senators Esser, B. Sheldon, Hale, Oke, Pflug, Fairley, Stevens, McAuliffe, T. Sheldon, Jacobsen, Sheahan, McCaslin, Roach, Winsley, Berkey, Haugen, Eide, Keiser, Schmidt and Carlson.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Technology & Communications: 1/26/04.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS

Staff: William Bridges (786-7424)

Background: Most telephone customers in Washington pay a flat monthly rate for local telephone service. Some local telephone companies offer lower monthly rates if customers agree to pay for local service on a per call basis. This type of pricing is called "local measured service." Under local measured service, customers pay for their local calls based on the time of day and length of call.

The Legislature prohibits the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) from approving tariffs or price lists that include mandatory local measured service. The prohibition 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 against mandatory local measured service expires June 1, 2004.

Summary of Bill: The prohibition restricting the WUTC from approving telecommunications tariffs and price lists imposing mandatory local measured service is extended to June 1, 2008.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.