Governor Signs Landmark Legislation Reforming Telecommunications Regulation in New Hampshire

 Governor John Lynch has signed legislation that creates a level regulatory playing field for all telecommunications providers in the state in order to promote an environment that encourages technology and continued investment in telecommunications services.

"Today's communications landscape offers consumers more choice of providers and services than at any other time in history," said Sen. Bob Odell, the bill's prime sponsor.  "This new law recognizes that the telecommunications industry has changed. The New Hampshire telecommunications industry is no longer a monopoly environment, nevertheless rather a competitive environment with more than 30 providers. The law reflects this transformation, so that we can encourage ongoing private investment in the state's telecommunications infrastructure."  

The legislation modernizes the regulation of telecommunications services, during continuing to provide the necessary protections to New Hampshire consumers.  It offers telecommunications providers relief from monopoly-era retail regulation, freeing them to compete more effectively and confirms that Voice over Internet Protocol services and IP-enabled services are not subject to regulation.  It as well preserves incumbent local exchange carrier obligations to serve as the carrier of last resort and ensures that all residents have an affordable basic service option for phone service. 

"The legislation puts in place much needed regulatory reform reflecting today's competitive realities," said Pat McHugh, FairPoint's New Hampshire state president. "The current regulatory system, which was created 100 years ago, has become completely outdated because of changes in the telecommunications marketplace.  The law is a good step forward, which ensures a level playing field for all telecommunication providers, fosters continued competition and ensures a free market for telecommunication services."