R21-01  APPLICATION

(a)  This rule governs both the complete cessation of telephone operations and the discontinuance or reduction of telephone service by local exchange companies (LECs) and competing local providers (CLPs), as defined in Commission Rule R17-1.  It does not apply to disconnection of service to an individual customer for nonpayment in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Commission’s Rules.

(b)  This rule is directed toward the discontinuance or reduction of service by, or termination of service to, carriers whose customers are end users.  In the event of a request for discontinuance or reduction of service by, or termination of service to, a carrier that provides both wholesale and retail service, or exclusively wholesale service, the Commission shall address such request in such manner as may be just, and shall, to the greatest possible extent, ensure that all affected parties, including but not limited to wholesale customers and end users, are afforded at least as much advance notice of cessation of service as provided for in these rules.  Rule R21-3 is applicable to all bankruptcy filings, regardless of whether the bankrupt carrier provides wholesale service, retail service, or both.

(NCUC Docket No. P‑100, Sub 162, 08/30/06.)