MI SB0690

Requires providers of basic local exchange service to provide text telephones/telecommunications devices for the deaf at cost to certified deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired individuals and public safety answering points.

Mandates providers offer telecommunication relay service allowing text telephone users to communicate with voice telephone users through third party intervention or automated translation, with providers choosing to operate independently, jointly, or through contract.

Limits rates and charges for relay service calls to those of direct calls from the same origin to same destination, and permits providers to offer discounts on toll calls using text telephone devices.

Requires the Michigan Public Service Commission to establish subscriber line rates allowing providers to recover relay service costs, with authority to waive costs for deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired individuals.

Effective date September 22, 2016.