DRAFT
PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Telecommunications Division |
RESOLUTION T-16546 |
Public Programs Branch |
August 23, 2001 |
R E S O L U T I O N
RESOLUTION T-16546. TO IMPLEMENT THE 711 ABREVIATED DIALING CODE FOR CONNECTION TO THE CALIFORNIA RELAY SERVICE ADMINISTERED BY THE DEAF AND DISABLED TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM. TO CHANGE THE DEFINITION OF "BASIC SERVICE" AS DEFINED IN DECISION 96-10-066 TO INCLUDE FREE CONNECTION TO THE CALIFORNIA RELAY SERVICE BY MEANS OF THE 711 ABBREVIATED DIALING CODE.
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SUMMARY
This Resolution establishes the abbreviated dialing code 711 for connection to the California Relay Service (CRS) effective October 1, 2001 and adopts the following provisions with regard to 711 service:
· Adds the following item to the list of services included in Basic Service as defined in Decision 96-10-066, the California Public Utilities Commission's universal service policy decision:
"Free access to the California Relay Service via the 711 abbreviated dialing code."
· Requires all carriers and owners of payphones to provide connection to CRS via the 711 abbreviated dialing code.
· Prohibits charges for connection to CRS and for the time required for establishing a relay call via the 711 dialing code.
· Prevents charges for local calls made through CRS via the 711 abbreviated dialing code, with the exception of wireless providers.
· Permits charges for toll and long distance calls placed via 711 for conversation minutes.
· Strongly encourages reduced rates for toll and long distance calls placed via 711 to accommodate the increased call time for relay calls.
· Specifies public education and outreach requirements related to 711 by means of bill inserts and customer mailings.
· Specifies payphone signage requirements related to 711.
BACKGROUND
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Reports and Orders
In the FCC's CC Docket No. 92-105, on the use of N11 codes and other abbreviated dialing arrangements, FCC 97-51 (First Report and Order) and FCC 00-257 (Second Report and Order) established 711 as a nationwide code to reach Telephone Relay Service (TRS) providers. The purpose of these orders as they relate to 711 is to fulfill the goals set forth in Title IV section 401 of Public Law 101-336, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), by providing persons with hearing and speech disabilities equivalent access to communication by means of a variety of telephony devices and/or processes. The FCC ordered all telecommunications carriers to provide access for customers to TRS as a toll free call.
