Bill > H2867

This bill aims to update regulations for voice telephone services, particularly in areas where competition exists. It proposes that certain existing laws and regulations concerning telecommunications, specifically Chapters 25C, 25, and 159, will no longer apply to common carriers offering telephone service in "competitive municipalities." A competitive municipality is defined as any town in the Commonwealth that is not on a specific list of towns, or any town on that list where the department of telecommunications (after a hearing and a petition filed after July 1, 2017) determines that at least two independent providers offer voice telephone service to homes using any technology, including wireless and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol, which allows phone calls over the internet). For municipalities that are *not* competitive, the department cannot impose retail rates lower than those in effect on January 1, 2015, nor can it impose more restrictive regulations on retail rates or service quality than what was in place on that date, taking into account the size of the customer base and historical performance. However, this bill clarifies that it does not affect the Attorney General's ability to enforce consumer protection laws, the department's authority regarding essential services like enhanced 911 and telephone relay services, pole attachments, or the administration of federal programs like the Universal Service Fund (which supports programs like Lifeline, E-rate, and Connect America Fund), nor does it prevent the department from handling consumer complaints or conducting consumer education. Additionally, the bill repeals several sections of Chapter 166 of the General Laws.