SBC granted competitive classification in 71 exchanges

The Missouri Public Service Commission Sept. 27 granted SBC’s request for competitive classification in 26 residential exchanges and 45 business exchanges, including some in southwest Missouri. SBC has 160 exchanges in Missouri.

A request for competition classification in three other residential exchanges and 16 business exchanges was denied, however, because the commission determined they were not included in the original request or did not meet the criteria.

Under the new classification, the commission no longer regulates SBC’s rates in the approved exchanges. Prices can be raised at the company’s discretion. The commission still has the ability to regulate SBC’s quality of service, service termination and other billing issues.

Approved exchanges include residential services in Monett, Nevada and Springfield, and business services in Camdenton, Joplin, Lake Ozark-Osage Beach, Monett, Nevada, Sedalia and Springfield.

SBC filed for competitive classification Aug. 30, two days after the effective date of Senate Bill 237 that allowed incumbent companies to do so. Competitive classification allows incumbent providers to compete more effectively with ancillary services and promotions.

Branson service provider CenturyTel also filed a request for competition classification in seven of its local exchanges. The law requires the commission issue a decision by Oct. 9.

On Sept. 22, the commission granted a request from Sprint for competitive classification for residential services in Ferrelview, Platte City and Weston and business services in Ferrelview, Platte City, St. Robert and Waynesville.