Press Release

HARRISBURG -- Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) Chairman Glen R. Thomas today said the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) approval of the PUC’s recommendation to allow Verizon to sell long-distance service to Pennsylvania customers will create more telephone competition in Pennsylvania.

"This decision by the FCC marks the end of a six-year campaign by Gov. Ridge and the PUC to restructure Pennsylvania’s electricity, natural gas and telephone utilities," Chairman Thomas said. "But, more importantly, it marks a beginning. The PUC will remain vigilant stewards of competition.

"Gov. Ridge set the tone years ago when he called on the PUC to become the undisputed leader across the board when it comes to utility competition.

"Now, we can say we did it. But the real challenge lies in the years ahead. The eyes of the entire world are on Pennsylvania -- to watch to see if we get it right. We will.

"Over the coming months and years, we will work with all parties to make sure competition works in Pennsylvania. In order for the market to mature, we will work to develop rules that are fair and competitively neutral. And we look forward to telling consumers statewide how they can benefit from Utility Choice."

The PUC is charged with ensuring Pennsylvania consumers have access to safe and reliable electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service -- and to serve as stewards of competition.

For more information about the PUC visit our Internet homepage at http://puc.paonline.com/.