Telecommunications

In Arizona, a competitive robust marketplace for telecommunications has enormously benefited consumers. In September 2003, the Commission gave consumers a new choice by approving Qwest's entry into the long distance market. Phoenix and Tucson area consumers can choose from several telephone providers - Qwest, Cox, AT&T or MCI - for local service. Consumers across Arizona are the winners, as prices have fallen while technological options have increased.

In April 2004, the Commission held Qwest accountable for willfully and intentionally violating state and federal regulations, which were designed to promote greater competition. The Commission fined Qwest $20.7 million, the largest penalty ever levied against a regulated utility. Competitors overcharged by Qwest are now being compensated, resulting in more choices for consumers.

Arizona consumers are finally protected from getting "slammed and crammed" by telecommunications companies. The Commission has put in place new rules that provide relief for customers who find that their long distance company was changed without their permission. Local telephone companies are also prevented from charging customers for features they did not order, such as voice mail or caller ID.

Companies violating the Commission's rules would potentially face fines and, as a last resort be denied the right to do business in Arizona. More importantly, customers would be returned to their original telephone carrier free of charge or would not have to pay for the unauthorized charges.

Unfortunately, the "slamming and cramming" rules apply only to landline telephone users and leave cell phone customers unprotected. "Arizona's founding fathers established the Corporation Commission to protect consumers," comments Hatch-Miller, "but we're blocked from helping them when it comes to their cell phones." Hatch-Miller's next goal is to ask the Arizona Legislature to expand the Commission's jurisdiction over cell phone companies that engage in deceptive business practices.