Under HB 3065 passed in the 2019 Legislative session, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) has been directed to investigate the continuing relevance of the “carrier of last resort” or COLR obligation on the state’s telecommunication providers given the changes in technology and policy in the telecommunications industry.
The carrier of last resort obligation was created to ensure that, when telecommunications providers were granted an exclusive service territory, they would provide service to all customers within that service territory. Under the COLR, providers are required to provide service to customers upon request. The customer retains the obligation to pay for the cost to provide them service, which can vary depending on their placement on the system. The PUC maintains pricing controls on COLR providers for residential primary line basic service to prevent price discrimination.
Over the next year, the PUC has been tasked with convening a public process to examine whether industry trends, technologies, and policy drivers in the telecommunications sector impact the existing regulatory structure to ensure adequate and reasonable access to telecommunication services for residential customers. Specifically, the PUC will be hosting six meetings in Salem and three in rural communities to ensure the voices of our stakeholders and Oregon residents are heard.
Overall Schedule & Deadlines
- July 3 - Submit responses to questions provided in place of Workshop #4. View details and the questions.
- July 30 - Workshop #5 has been rescheduled for August 13. Please remove July 30th from your calendar.
- August 6 - Submit written recommendations. View Workshop #5 agenda for additional information.
- August 13 - Workshop #5 held via video conference from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Public Workshops
Workshop #5 - Video Conference
9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Stakeholder Recommendations Received - To be discussed during this working
Responses provided by:
Workshop #3 - Webinar
Workshop #3 - Presentations
Workshop #2
Workshop #1
Public Comments
The PUC hosted public comments hearings by webinar and conference call to enable telecommunications customers throughout the state to participate and provide comments. Public comments may still be submitted by email or by calling 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404 (TTY or dial 711). We want to know what challenges you have with your telecommunication service and what telecommunication services are essential for you and your community to thrive.