No. 31045: R746-347. Extended Area Service (EAS)

DAR File No.: 31045
Filed: 03/07/2008, 09:33
Received by: NL

NOTICE OF REVIEW AND STATEMENT OF CONTINUATION

Concise explanation of the particular statutory provisions under which the rule is enacted and how these provisions authorize or require the rule:

Section 54-3-1 requires service offered by a public utility to be "adequate, efficient, just and reasonable". Section 54-3-4 allows utilities to offer joint services. Section 54-8b-11 requires the Public Service Commission to endeavor to make available high-quality telecommunications services at just and reasonable rates for customers throughout the State. Section 54-4-1 authorizes the commission to supervise and regulate public utilities. Section 54-4-12 requires telephone utilities to interconnect networks in order to provide a continuous line of communication. This rule uses these provision to enable joint localities of common interest to have local calling areas in which customers may place telephone calls without incurring toll charges for each call made.

Summary of written comments received during and since the last five-year review of the rule from interested persons supporting or opposing the rule:

In 2003, comments were received by the Committee of Consumer Services to lower the percentage, from 75% to 67%, of approving residential customers surveyed in petitioning exchanges to support the creation of an extended area service (EAS) territory. A rule amendment was made in response to the comment. No comments opposing the rule were received.

Reasoned justification for continuation of the rule, including reasons why the agency disagrees with comments in opposition to the rule, if any:

This rule continues to be necessary to establish or restructure EAS under just and reasonable rates offered by Utah telephone corporations. Therefore, this rule should be continued.

The full text of this rule may be inspected, during regular business hours, at the Division of Administrative Rules, or at:

Public Service Commission
Administration
HEBER M WELLS BLDG
160 E 300 S
SALT LAKE CITY UT 84111-2316

Direct questions regarding this rule to:

Sheri Bintz at the above address, by phone at 801-530-6714, by FAX at 801-530-6796, or by Internet E-mail at [e-mail]

Authorized by:

Sandy Mooy, Legal Counsel