Us West May Keep Grip On In-State Calls House Sends Bill To Governor Over At&T;’S, Mci’s Objections

A proposal to preserve US West’s hold over Washington state’s long-distance telephone market won House passage and was sent to the governor Tuesday.

The measure, SB5156, was passed, 87-10, despite fierce lobbying from AT&T and MCI, which argued that telephone consumers would lose if national carriers are not allowed the same access to the in-state market enjoyed by US West.

“Consumers are taking a back seat to US West,” said Richard Severy, an MCI spokesman, following passage.

But US West contends that without the legislation, it would lose revenue and be forced to raise longdistance rates.

Specifically, the bill would bar the state Utilities and Transportation Commission from allowing national carriers to offer the simple “1-plusarea code” access numbers that US West customers use for in-state calling. The national carriers could continue to offer longer, more complicated access codes, which they contend cost them business.

If signed by Gov. Mike Lowry, the law would remain in effect for three years or until Congress sees fit to let US West compete in the national long-distance market.

Fred Hellberg, Lowry’s aide on telecommunications issues, said the governor has taken no position.

Backers of the measure cited US West’s inability to compete as reason enough to vote for it.

But foes said the bill is simply a way for US West to enjoy a nearly competition-free market.

Rep. Ken Jacobsen, D-Seattle, said, “What we’re doing is saying we don’t want change. We don’t want competition and one carrier can have a monopoly.”

But Rep. Julia Patterson, D-SeaTac, countered that the bill merely maintains the status quo.