Reducing Barriers to Network Improvements and Service Changes
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
This rule facilitates the transition from outdated copper networks to modern Internet Protocol (IP)-based networks by reducing regulatory burdens. It removes the requirement for filings related to network changes, allowing local exchange carriers to focus on modernizing their infrastructure without filing duplicative information. Public safety and consumer protections remain, ensuring uninterrupted 911 services.
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Key Changes
- Elimination of network change disclosure filing requirements.
- Maintenance of public safety and 911 service protections.
- Encouragement for next-generation infrastructure investment.
Obligations
What this law requires
Incumbent local exchange carriers (LECs) must provide direct notice of copper retirements and short-term network changes to directly interconnected telephone exchange service providers and 911 service providers.
Incumbent local exchange carriers must post public notice of planned network changes through industry forums, publications, or on the carrier's publicly accessible internet site.
Carriers must obtain Commission authorization for any copper retirement or network change that results in service discontinuance as defined in Section 51.325(a).
Carriers must ensure continued support for 911 service when discontinuing services supporting interconnection trunks or the exchange of traffic, including 911 trunks and 911 traffic.
Carriers must ensure their practices related to network changes are just and reasonable, ensuring timely notice of planned changes to prevent service disruptions.