The proposed bill aims to relieve telephone companies and telecommunications carriers from the obligation to serve certain areas where alternative providers are available. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 216B.62, by adding a new subdivision that allows the Public Utilities Commission to assess fees for the administrative costs associated with the discontinuation of telecommunication services. These fees will be deposited into a special revenue fund and are not subject to existing caps on assessments. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 237.181, which outlines the process for customer transition plans in areas with Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) alternatives, including definitions, requirements for transition plans, and the commission's role in approving these plans.

Under the new provisions, telephone companies or telecommunications carriers can submit customer transition plans to the commission, which must include details about affected customers, available alternative providers, and plans for assisting customers during the transition. The commission is tasked with resolving disputes regarding service availability and must do so in a timely manner before services are discontinued. The bill also allows for the reinstatement of service obligations if customers lack access to alternative providers, ensuring that the commission can take necessary actions to protect consumer interests. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
2nd Engrossment: 216B.62