Press Release

PUC Seeks New Telecommunications Relay Service Provider

Published on 6/20/2014

Filed under: Telecommunications

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today announced that it is seeking a new telecommunications relay service (TRS) vendor in Pennsylvania to replace the current provider. AT&T has announced that it intends to retire from the provision of this service at the end of this year.

TRS is a service that enables deaf, hard-of-hearing or speech-impaired individuals to communicate using traditional methods. These methods would include the use of text telephone, voice carry over, hearing carry over and speech-to-speech services. These services are also offered in Spanish without translation, meaning the message is relayed in the original language.

The PUC’s Bureau of Technical Utility Services (TUS) has issued a Request For Proposal (RFP) to prospective vendors. To be considered, RFPs must be received by TUS no later than Aug. 5, 2014. Proposals received after this date will be rejected and unopened. The selected vendor then will submit an application to the Commission to become a regulated public utility, and the provider switch will occur late this year in what the Commission intends to be a seamless transition for TRS customers.

The Commission encourages all potential service providers to participate in the RFP process so the public receives the best relay service at a competitive price. Inquiries can be directed to Janet Tuzinski at jtuzinski@pa.gov or (717) 783-6175.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases and video of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.pa.gov. Follow the PUC on Twitter – @PA_PUC for all things utility. “Like” PAPowerSwitch on Facebook for easy access to information on electric shopping.

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Docket No. M-2014-2399871

Contact:

• Deputy Press Secretary
  717-787-5722