Electric Lightwave Inc. will file formal testimony by the end of February 1995, outlining why it should be allowed to compete with US WEST for local telephone and other services, the Public Service Commission decided Tuesday.
During a scheduling conference in the commission's hearing room, ELI was told public hearings on the request will begin Sept. 11, 1995. Between the two dates, a discovery process will take place.State law allows 240 days between the time of request and a decision is handed down by the PSC. Electric Lightwave, which is based in Vancouver, Wash., at first pressed for the time limit to begin immediately.
Kent Walgren, assistant Utah attorney general who represents the Utah Committee of Consumer Services, wanted the limit to begin with the filing of formal testimony, so that all sides would have more time to study the matter. After a conference, ELI did not object to the commission's ruling that the time limit will begin on Feb. 28, the date by which ELI must file its written testimony with the PSC.
ELI contends that it should be allowed to compete for all sorts of telecommunications services. About 10 other states have adopted such regulations, according to Joe Hommel, director of regulatory affairs for ELI.
US WEST spokesman Steve Linton has said the utility is not opposed to competition that would end the company's monopoly on local calls. But he said in a competitive environment, new regulations should control prices and not profits.