Local Phone Service

Changes to the Public Utility Regulatory Act and the Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 required local telephone companies to allow new companies to connect with their networks in order to provide competitive local phone service.

Currently over 300 competitive local exchange carriers (CLECs) are certified by the PUC to provide competitive local phone service in Texas. To find out which companies are currently offering local phone service in your area, look in your traditional telephone company’s telephone directory. A list of local phone companies should be found in the front pages of the directory

Shopping for Local Phone Service Made Easier

Shopping around for a local phone provider has gotten easier. Thanks to Senate Bill 86, customers can now expect some basic customer protections from all local telephone companies.

Alternative local phone providers are required to provide the same customer protection standards as a regulated local phone company. This means that customers signing up for service with alternative providers must be given clear and accurate information. Once you sign up and pay a deposit for service, an alternative provider must connect your service within a reasonable period. These providers must also give you notice before disconnecting your service. Alternate providers are prohibited from slamming and cramming. Any violations of these standards could result in penalties and fines or revocation of their operating certificates.

In addition, with these protections, customers can reap the benefits of competition in the local phone market without giving up their basic rights and protections.

Last Updated: 11/09/06

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