Texas PUC to Weigh Telecom Rule Changes Next Week

The Texas Public Utility Commission plans to vote Nov. 30 on a sweeping update to Texas Chapter 26 substantive telecommunications rules, the PUC said Tuesday. Industry sought several edits in comments last month (see 2310300036). A modified staff proposal in docket 54589 would agree with Windstream and the Texas Telephone Association about national broadband map information that a provider must submit to show continued need for Texas USF support. The PUC would agree with their recommendation that the map cited must have been in effect for at least 90 days before the application was filed, so as to avoid the time crunch of having to use the FCC’s November map update for an application due by year-end. The commission would reject Verizon’s suggestion to eliminate a requirement that companies show they comply with commission rules before administratively granting name change requests. And it would disagree with Verizon that the PUC lacks authority to regulate telecom carriers’ stock sales, mergers and acquisitions. The PUC would agree with Verizon’s recommendation to clarify that a deregulated company with a certificate of authority, or an exempt carrier, isn't required to provide information for discontinuing optional services.