HB 14-1331 Summary

• Exempts basic local exchange service (BELS) from regulation under Part 4 of the Colorado Public Utilities Law, allowing it to be classified as a deregulated service effective upon enactment.

• Until July 1, 2016, incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs) must charge uniform prices for basic service throughout their service territory, capped at December 31, 2013 rates unless below the federal urban rate floor.

• Maintains the high cost support mechanism to subsidize basic service in areas without effective competition, regardless of how basic service is classified under state regulation.

• After July 1, 2016, the Public Utilities Commission retains authority to designate providers of last resort, set maximum prices, prohibit service discontinuation, and enforce compliance in areas receiving high cost support.

• Appropriates $270,335 and 2.0 FTE for fiscal year 2014-2015 to the Public Utilities Commission and Department of Law for implementation, including staff and legal services.