CPUC Votes 5-0 to Clear RLEC Markets for Wireline Competition

The California Public Utilities Commission conditionally opened 13 small LEC markets to cable and wireline competitors. Commissioners voted 5-0 for the proposed decision despite concerns raised by rural incumbents and would-be competitors (see 2007280058 and 2008040051). Federal and state law requires the commission to allow competition in the markets that cover 17 counties in hard-to-serve parts, said Commissioner Martha Guzman Aceves at the agency’s livestreamed virtual meeting Thursday. She noted it’s “ironic” that the carriers that want to compete “often are some of the major barriers to competition elsewhere.” Conditions for possible entrants are nondiscriminatory and competitively neutral, she said. Commissioner Cliff Rechtschaffen said the decision “strikes the right balance by advancing competition,” with “many safeguards to ensure fairness, to ensure the quality of service and to safeguard consumer rights.” It gives wireline companies the same opportunity as wireless providers to compete with RLECs in the 13 markets, said Commissioner Liane Randolph. CPUC President Marybel Batjer called the decision “a cautious step forward.” The item focuses on voice amid a pandemic that shows people need the internet, so the commission should tackle that issue next, she said. Earlier in the meeting, members unanimously cleared a California Advanced Services Fund proposal as part of its consent agenda. The decision closes docket R.12-10-012 and authorizes staff to set application windows and timelines for broadband infrastructure account and allow staff to use state operations funds to provide technical assistance for tribes (see 2007060047). CASF “needs many more reforms statutorily,” said Guzman Aceves. The program’s 6/1 Mbps broadband standard is insufficient, but even under that many tribes are unserved, she said.