CA AB2545

The Public Utilities Commission must conduct a public process within 60 days of the bill's effective date to develop recommendations for collecting state and local communications taxes, fees, and surcharges from prepaid communications end-user consumers in an equitable and uniform manner.

The process must include regularly scheduled meetings with stakeholders representing government entities, telecommunications industries, retail associations, consumer advocacy organizations, and other interested parties.

The PUC must report its recommendations to the Legislature no later than 18 months after the interested parties process convenes.

Communications taxes and surcharges covered include the State Emergency Telephone Users Surcharge, California High Cost Funds, Advanced Services Fund, Teleconnect Fund, Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program, and local 911 fees and utility user taxes.

The recommendations must address collection mechanisms, points of collection, appropriate collecting entities, administrative costs, and effective dates for implementation.