H598 - TRS Surcharge Modernization

• Requires local exchange, CMRS, and VoIP providers to remit the telecommunications relay service surcharge directly to the State Treasurer rather than collecting it separately.

• Allows all providers to deduct a one percent administrative fee from the total surcharge revenue before remitting to the State Treasurer.

• Permits providers to choose whether to assess the surcharge as a separately stated charge on customer bills or include it in their service charges.

• Clarifies that the telecommunications relay service surcharge and long distance revenues collected for relay service users are not subject to sales tax under G.S. 105-164.4C.

• Establishes new definitions for interconnected VoIP service, VoIP providers, prepaid wireless telecommunications service, and voice communications service connections in the relay service statute.

• Effective January 1, 2014, for all surcharges collected on or after that date.