As part of this proceeding, and in accordance with the Ratepayer Advocate's position, the BPU also rejected Bell Atlantic's proposal to significantly increase rates for basic service in connection with the approval of intraLATA toll competition.
New Jersey is divided into three regions, or LATAs.
Within those regions, toll calls are automatically carried by the local exchange companies, such as Bell Atlantic. As a result of today's decision, customers will soon have the right to preselect the service provider who will carry that call. Customers' choices will include their present local exchange company, as well as interexchange companies, such as their interstate long distance provider. The BPU adopted the Ratepayer Advocate's position that intraLATA toll presubscription should be implemented as soon as possible, consistent with appropriate consumer safeguards and public education. So, as an initial matter, this decision makes it more convenient for all New Jersey customers to take advantage of available choices.