House Bill 10-1281 Summary

• Defines "Interconnected Voice-Over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) Service" as real-time two-way voice communications requiring broadband connection and Internet Protocol-compatible equipment that permits calls to and from the public switched telephone network.

• Exempts interconnected VoIP service from regulation under Colorado's telecommunications and public utilities laws.

• Repeals prior regulations requiring basic local exchange service, new products and services included in basic local exchange service definitions, and dual tone multifrequency signaling to be subject to potential reclassification.

• Adds basic local exchange service and new products and services to Part 3 of telecommunications regulations as initially subject to regulation with potential deregulation.

• Appropriates $184,444 to the Public Utilities Commission and $51,258 to the Department of Law for fiscal year 2010 to implement the act, which takes effect August 11, 2010, subject to voter approval if a referendum petition is filed within 90 days.