RCA Seeks Comments on ACS'S Intent to Discontinue Payphone Services:
The Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA) is seeking comments on
notification from Alaska Communications Systems (ACS) that it is discontinuing
its private pay telephone services statewide.
On February 11, 2010, ACS notified the RCA of its intent to discontinue its
payphone services. According to ACS, it has authority to discontinue its
payphones without the RCA's approval.
If ACS implements its plan, all ACS payphones in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau
and other communities will be removed from service by April 30, 2010. ACS's
letter did not provide details regarding the number and location of payphones.
The RCA has opened an investigation (Docket U-10-13) and is seeking
comments on ACS's assertion that it may discontinue payphone services without
RCA approval; the impact ACS's action will have on payphone users; the
locations where payphone service may still be needed; and possible ways to
ensure payphone service is provided where it is still required.
Interested persons may comment on the ACS filing by submitting written
comments to the RCA at 701 West Eighth Avenue, Suite 300, Anchorage,
Alaska, 99501, via email at rca.mail@alaska.gov by May 16, 2010. Comments
may also be submitted online through this link:
View Public Notices and Submit Comments.
ORDER
Date Issued: 4/16/2010