In a new development, there are now companies that provide long-distance service via the Internet, or using IP technology, though they still depend upon the local phone network to receive and deliver the call. If it functions like a phone and rings like a phone - it's a phone. These are long-distance calls that originate and terminate on the local exchange network. However, any long distance provider is obligated to pay its share to maintain the local phone network, and companies who provide IP telephony long-distance calls are no exception. IP telephony providers are getting a free ride at the expense of residential customers, including those who are not using or can't afford to connect to the Internet.
Access charges help provide support to universal service and keep local rates affordable.
If this support is put at risk because these companies are not paying access charges as they should, pressure may be put on local rates going forward. BellSouth intends to apply access charges to such IXC traffic. State laws and state commission rules often require telecommunication carriers to seek state commission certification. State commissions should assure these requirements are being met. IP is used as the operating specifications for the public Internet.