TX HB3713

Allows the Public Utility Commission to adopt mechanisms to maintain reasonable rates for local exchange telephone service for companies serving fewer than 31,000 access lines and cooperatives

Requires the commission to expand the universal service fund for local exchange companies and cooperatives serving 31,000 or fewer access lines that were not electing companies under Chapter 58 or 59 as of June 1, 2013

Removes the existing requirement for the commission to implement mechanisms replacing revenue changes caused by Federal Communications Commission orders, rules, or policies affecting federal universal service fund revenue or intrastate cost/revenue assignments

Requires mechanisms to replace projected revenue losses through either rate increases (if not adversely affecting universal service) or the universal service fund

Prohibits distribution of support under this section after December 31, 2013 to companies serving more than 31,000 access lines or those that were electing companies under Chapter 58 or 59 on June 1, 2013

Takes effect September 1, 2025