In each issue we will provide you with a glimpse of telecom matters going on at the state level. The California Public Utilities Commission approved an area code overlay in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties effective September 16, 2000. The new code has not yet been assigned, but when the overlay occurs, both the new code and the existing code will serve the affected areas. Therefore, existing numbers with the current area code will not be changed. Consumers can enter the name of a city and view a list of all ISPs serving the area.
Additional information is available about each provider.
The Iowa Utilities Board is reviewing comments regarding the preservation and advancement of universal service in the state. The board requested comments on objectives and goals, the definition of services to receive support, methods to determine the cost of universal service, distribution of support funds, and the sources of contributions to the fund. PLC initiated a letter-writing campaign to the governor and other legislators, encouraging consumers to air concerns about the merger and the lack of competition in the local market. Rural activists in West Virginia are organizing a school community leadership project to spur grassroots involvement in the state's education policy. Also planned is an education forum to inform rural residents about ways they can help improve schools.