Pacific Bell Telephone Company Seeks Relief from Carrier of Last Resort Obligation

Strategic Insights -

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has issued a regulatory update regarding Pacific Bell Telephone Company's (PacBell) application for targeted relief from its carrier of last resort (COLR) obligation and certain associated tariff obligations. The update details the parties involved, their respective interests, and the proposed decision granting compensation to the Center for Accessible Technology for its substantial contribution to Decision 24-06-024. Key stakeholders include PacBell, AT&T California, the Utility Reform Network, the Center for Accessible Technology, and the CPUC.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pacific Bell Telephone Company has filed an application with the CPUC seeking relief from its COLR obligation, which requires the company to provide service to areas where no other carrier is available.
  • The application proposes targeted relief from COLR obligations for certain areas and associated tariff obligations.
  • The CPUC has issued a proposed decision granting compensation to the Center for Accessible Technology for its substantial contribution to Decision 24-06-024.
  • Parties involved include Pacific Bell, AT&T California, the Utility Reform Network, the Center for Accessible Technology, and the CPUC.
  • The CPUC's proposed decision addresses issues related to COLR obligations, tariff obligations, and compensation for contributions to regulatory decisions.

Statistics:

  • 35 parties are listed as intervenors in the CPUC proceeding A.23-03-003, including PacBell, AT&T California, and the Utility Reform Network.
  • The Center for Accessible Technology will receive compensation for its substantial contribution to Decision 24-06-024, as proposed by the CPUC.
  • The proposed decision addresses COLR obligations for approximately 10 areas in California.
  • The CPUC's proceeding A.23-03-003 was initiated on March 3, 2023, with the CPUC issuing a Certificate of Service on July 10, 2025.

Sources:

  • A.23-03-003 (CPUC, March 3, 2023)
  • Proposed Decision Granting Compensation to Center for Accessible Technology for Substantial Contribution to Decision 24-06-024 (CPUC, July 2025)
  • Certificate of Service (July 10, 2025)
  • Pacific Bell Telephone Company's Comments on the Proposed Decision (July 10, 2025)