IUB Deregulates Local Exchange Service Quality

In an August 9th ruling, the Iowa Utilities Board has removed a number of requirements for local exchange carriers in the state.  In summary:

​In this order, the Board deregulates retail local exchange service quality in Iowa, including nearly all customer service requirements, specific service quality standards, and provisions relating to discontinuation of service. This action is based upon the widespread availability of effective competition for retail local exchange communications services and is taken pursuant to Iowa Code § 476.1D. The Board finds that certain regulations involve essential communications services that meet the test for continued service regulation despite a finding of effective competition, including assessments for the Dual Party Relay Services fund and for Board expenses, and hearing and resolving customer complaints. The Board further finds that certain statutory provisions are unaffected by deregulation, including 911 services, regulation of alternative operator services, unauthorized changes in service, and utility crossings of railroad right-of-way. The Ordering Clauses at the end of this order contain a list of the Board’s rules that will no longer be enforced after deregulation.

The following rules are no longer in effect and will no longer be enforced:
a. Rule 22.2(1), Evaluation of records.
b. Rule 22.3, General service requirements.
c. Rule 22.4, Customer relations, except to the extent necessary to process customer complaints, including but not limited to, 22.4(1)(a)(1), 22.4(1)(a)(4), 22.4(1)(a)(5), 22.4(1)(b), 22.4(1)(c), 22.4(3)(a), 22.4(3)(c), 22.4(4), 22.4(5), and 22.4(6). DOCKET NO. INU-2016-0001 PAGE 51
d. Rule 22.6, Standards of quality of service. e. Rule 22.7, Protective measures.
f. Rule 22.16, Discontinuance of service.
​g. Rule 22.17, Resale of service.

Now is a good time to reach out to your regulatory counsel or consultant to see what operational impact it will have.