Press Release

PUC to Exercise Jurisdiction over Eligible Telecommunications Carrier Designations for Wireless Carriers

Published on 2/26/2009

Filed under: Telecommunications

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today opted to actively and affirmatively exercise its jurisdiction over eligible telecommunications (ETC) carrier designations for wireless carriers.

The Commission voted 5-0 to affirmatively exercise its jurisdiction to determine whether or not a wireless carrier qualifies as an ETC in Pennsylvania. All filings related to ETC designation in Pennsylvania, pursuant to 47 USC § 214(e)(2), must be filed with and approved by the PUC.

The Commission will undertake consideration of these filings to ensure that wireless carriers seeking ETC status will comply with public safety and other requirements and to protect the broader public interest. Previously, the PUC deferred to the Federal Communications Commission for making wireless ETC designations.

Carriers granted ETC status are eligible to receive federal universal service funding support, which helps maintain affordable local telephone service for all Americans and provides discounted service to schools, public libraries and low-income customers.

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 Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. M-00960799

Contact:

• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722