SB 396 Summary

• Limits the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission's authority over telecommunications rates and interconnection pricing to only what federal law delegates to the state, effective July 1, 2014.

• Establishes that intrastate switched or special access service rates are presumed just and reasonable if they mirror the provider's interstate rates for the same services.

• Repeals the commission's jurisdiction over payphone service provider rates and removes most regulatory authority over communications service providers regarding rates, depreciation, quality of service, and financing arrangements.

• Requires the commission to adopt rules incorporating NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code 2010 Edition) by July 1, 2014, including provisions allowing digital alarm communicator systems using managed facilities-based voice networks to transmit fire alarm signals.

• Clarifies that eligible telecommunications carriers designated as such by the commission remain liable for enhanced prepaid wireless charges and statewide 911 fees when providing service in that capacity.