Press Release

PUC Revises Regulation Changes for Basic Service in Bundled Services Package Plans

Published on 12/17/2009

Filed under: Telecommunications

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today revised Chapter 64 regulations related to basic service in bundled service packages.

The Commission voted 5-0 to adopt the regulations as revised.   PUC Commissioner Kim Pizzingrilli issued a statement.  Among the revisions to the regulations include new customer disclosure notices and conversion of non-paying customers to basic service, which means customers who are delinquent on their bundled service package will have an opportunity to maintain access to basic service, in lieu of termination from the network. 

On March 26, 2009, the PUC revised its regulations regarding basic service in bundled service package plans by local exchange carriers (LECs), otherwise known as Chapter 64 of the Public Utility Code.  On April 13, 2009, Verizon Pennsylvania Inc. filed a petition for reconsideration related to the rulemaking and on May 11, 2009, the Broadband Cable Association of Pennsylvania also filed a petition for reconsideration and clarification.  Chapter 64 establishes and enforces uniform, fair and equitable residential telephone service standards governing account payment and billing, credit and deposit practices, suspension, termination and customer complaint procedures.  The purpose of this chapter is to assure adequate provision of basic residential telephone service; to restrict unreasonable suspension or termination of or refusal to provide service; and to provide functional alternatives to suspension, termination or refusal to provide service.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. L-00060179

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov