Based on projections and results already seen elsewhere, Pociask estimates the new competition may lower long-distance prices between 20 and 32 percent. BellSouth's entry will also stimulate local competition. Lower local and long-distance prices will stimulate demand for both, and customers will enjoy additional savings as usage increases. BellSouth has notified the Tennessee Regulatory Authority that it intends to file by the end of July its application for permission to provide long- distance service. The company has already filed similar applications with state regulatory commissions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina.
Data indicates local competition is growing rapidly.
In fact, the study estimates the local competition is growing 1.7 times faster than the competition for long-distance services grew when that market was first opened to competition. Incorporated All Rights Reserved.