Press Release

PUC to Introduce Electronic Filing for Regulated Motor Carriers in Pilot Project

Published on 3/31/2006

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG, Pa – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will launch a pilot program Monday for an online service that electronically processes insurance filings for regulated motor carriers including commercial trucks, buses, taxicabs and limousines. 

        “Constantly striving to provide better customer service is a goal the Commission takes very seriously,” said Commissioner Kim Pizzingrilli. “We continue our efforts to have a system in place that enhances our efficiency and effectiveness as an agency, permits electronic filings, and offers consumers and practitioner’s easier access to information maintained by the Commission.”

       “Providing service electronically is not only an added convenience for the insurers and motor carriers, but it also improves the efficiencies for the Commission’s Bureau of Transportation and Safety in its insurance oversight responsibilities,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “I look forward to working with all parties as the Commission begins to receive feedback on this pilot program.”

       More than 300 insurance companies nationwide provide coverage for PUC regulated commercial vehicles. The online system – MCInfo – allows insurers to submit one filing that is valid in 19 states including Pennsylvania. The program is designed to assist motor carriers in ensuring that valid insurance forms are on file and, at the same time, providing the Commission with the ability to instantaneously receive filings. The PUC will continue to accept hard copies of insurance filing forms.

       On Feb. 9, 2006, the Commission temporarily waived regulations in order to permit the electronic filing. The Order then was published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin.

        The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage www.puc.state.pa.us.

        MCInfo, which can be found at www.mcinfo.org, is a national filing portal that specializes in Motor Carrier insurance support services.  Launched in 1999, the portal is built and managed by National Online Registries, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the eGovernment firm NIC. NIC manages more eGovernment services than any provider in the world. The company helps government communicate more effectively with citizens and businesses by putting essential services online. NIC provides eGovernment solutions for 2,300 state and local agencies that serve more than 60 million people in the United States.  Additional information is available atwww.nicusa.com.

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Docket No. M-00061937

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