BILL NUMBER: SB 598 INTRODUCED
BILL TEXT
INTRODUCED BY Senator Fuller
FEBRUARY 17, 2011
An act to amend Section 2896 of the Public Utilities Code,
relating to telecommunications.
LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
SB 598, as introduced, Fuller. Telecommunication services.
Under existing law, the Public Utilities Commission has regulatory
authority over public utilities, including telephone corporations,
as defined. The existing Telecommunications Customer Service Act of
1993 requires the commission to require telephone corporations to
provide certain customer services to telecommunication customers, as
specified.
This bill would make technical, nonsubstantive changes to the act.
Vote: majority. Appropriation: no. Fiscal committee: no.
State-mandated local program: no.
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Section 2896 of the Public Utilities Code is amended to
read:
2896. The commission shall require telephone corporations to
provide customer service to telecommunication
customers that includes, but is not limited to, all the following:
(a) Sufficient information upon which to make informed choices
among telecommunications services and providers. This includes, but
is not limited to, information regarding the provider's identity,
service options, pricing, and terms and conditions of service. A
provider need only provide information to its customers on the
services which that it offers.
(b) Ability to access a live operator by dialing the numeral "0"
as an available, free option. The commission may authorize rates and
charges for any operator assistance service provided subsequent to
access.
(c) Reasonable statewide service quality standards, including, but
not limited to, standards regarding network technical quality,
customer service, installation, repair, and billing.
(d) Information concerning the regulatory process and how
customers can participate in that process, including the process of
resolving complaints.