Commissioners (from left) Jan Cook, Jim Sullivan and Charles B. Martin

The Alabama Public Service Commission is a quasi-judicial regulatory body whose jurisdiction, powers and duties are delegated to it by the Alabama Legislature. The Commission derives its authority from the Code of Alabama, 1975, Sections 24-1-28, 10-2-231, 10-5-3, 10-5-4, 10-5-7, 11-50-268, 11-50-269, 11-50-270, 37-1-32, 37-2-3, 37-2-171, 37-3-7, 37-4-60, 37-4-82, 37-4-108, 37-9-8, and 37-9-9.

The Public Service Commission has been charged with responsibility for the regulation of public utilities and some aspects of the transportation industry doing business in Alabama. These include privately-owned corporations providing electric, gas, water, telecommunications, and radio utility service to the public, plus railroads, buses, some trucking companies, and taxis operating outside police jurisdictions.

The Commission supervises and regulates utilities and some aspects of public transportation to ensure adequate service and facilities are made available at rates that are reasonable. The law prohibits variation from established rates. The quasi-judicial status of the Commission requires conducting public hearings on applications, petitions, and complaints, together with the rendering of decisions on those proceedings.

The Commission operates solely from inspection and supervision fees received from the companies regulated and appropriated by the Legislature.

The various divisions conduct the work of the Commission. A statement of the function, operational procedure, and accomplishments of these divisions during FY-97 appears in this report, which is published by the Public Affairs section of the Advisory Division.

John Nixon, Jr., Assistant for Regulatory Research and Analysis (Resigned 1/17/97)

G. Scott Morris, Assistant for Regulatory Research and Analysis

Kenny McDaniel, Executive Assistant III (Resigned 1/3/97)

David P. Rountree, Executive Assistant III

Donna H. Dodd, Executive Secretary

Sandra B. Leser, Administrative Support Assistant III

Ken Tuck, Laborer

Clarence Duncan, Assistant for Regulatory Research and Analysis

Virginia Mobley, Executive Assistant (Resigned 6/6/97)

Freddie Day, Executive Assistant III

Jo Anne Browning, Executive Secretary

Ellen Irvine, Administrative Support Assistant III

Joni Morgan, Laborer (Resigned 8/15/97)

Sue Sanders, Executive Assistant III

Jo Sibley, Executive Secretary

Pat Dail, Administrative Support Assistant II

Walter Thomas, Acting Secretary

Sandy Haynes, Clerk Stenographer III

Judi Dykema, Utility Consumer Complaints Supervisor

Cathy Cook, Utilities Engineering Technician

Lee Provo, Utility Consumer Complaints Specialist

Debra Jackson, Utility Consumer Complaints Specialist

Kaye Davila, Administrative Support Assistant II

Denise Harris, Clerical Aide (Resigned 9/11/97)

William C. Anglin, Supervisor, Accountant III

John Hagood, Accountant II (Retired 2/1/97)

Miles Gagner, Accountant II

Renee Parson, Account Clerk II

Deboraha Thornton, Clerk Stenographer II

Beth Kyser, Administrative Support Assistant II

Bonnie Granthum, Administrative Support Assistant II

Darlene Adams, Clerk Stenographer III

Allen Johnson, Laborer (Resigned 10/22/96)

Judy McLean, Director, CPA

Sarah Chandler, Analyst, Natural Gas Advisor

Darrell Baker, Utility Engineering Specialist II

Suellen Young, Attorney III, Legal Advisor

Louise Tillery, Administrative Support Assistant I

Valerie Hogan, Clerk Stenographer II

Cliff Duke, Data Processing Specialist II

Kay Hansen, Programmer/Analyst II

Jo Ann Williams, Programmer I

Brenda Welcher, Computer Operator II

Kathy Thomas, Administrative Support Assistant II (Resigned 3/28/97)

Mary Newmeyer, Utility Rate Supervisor

Gene Hanes, Public Utilities Analyst II

Dorinda Kepler, Personnel Assistant III

Loy Overstreet, Administrative Support Assistant II

Jim Tolbert, Information Specialist II (Resigned 7/11/97)

Bart Bass, Laborer (Resigned 8/6/97)

Janice M. Hamilton, Director

Rose Penn, Administrative Support Assistant II

Sharry Rabb, Laborer

Linda Bowers, Accountant II

Rolland Casey, PSC Accountant

John Free, Public Utilities Auditor II

Mary Martin, Public Utilities Analyst II

Robert Taylor, III, Public Utilities Analyst II

Robert Reed, Utility Rate Supervisor

William Knight, Utilities Analyst II

James Norman, Public Utilities Auditor III

Joe Leverette, Public Utilities Auditor I

Donald Powell, Utilities Analyst II

Taucora Brooks, State Professional Trainee (Resigned 4/25/97)

Brenda Roberts, Clerk Stenographer II

Chris Harvey, Gas Pipeline Safety Administrator

Jannette Mitchell, Clerk Stenographer III

Dave Darwin, Pipeline Safety Investigator III

Ocie Dunson, Pipeline Safety Investigator III

John Paul Harris, Pipeline Safety Investigator III

Spencer Brady, Pipeline Safety Training Officer

Thomas Lancaster, Pipeline Safety Investigator II

Gregory Meadows, Pipeline Safety Investigator I

David Snoddy, Pipeline Safety Investigator II

Hosie Powell, Pipeline Safety Investigator I

Bernard Givan, Utilities Engineering Specialist II

Rick Cleckler, Utilities Engineering Specialist II

William Straughn, Utilities Engineering Technician

Stephen Bartelt, Utility Rate Supervisor

Carl L. Evans, Chief Administrative Law Judge

Stanley W. Foy, Administrative Law Judge

John A. Garner, Administrative Law Judge

Eileen M. Lawrence, Clerk Stenographer IV

Pat Reed, Administrative Support Assistant II (Temporary)

Kwanza Crenshaw, Clerical Aide (Resigned 8/9/97)

Clarence Duncan, Acting Director

Barbara Franklin, Clerk Stenographer III

Cynthia Allen, Administrative Support Assistant I

David House, Public Utilities Auditor III

E.C. McArthur, Public Utilities Auditor III

David Peeler, Public Utilities Auditor III

Gladys Gray, Public Utilities Auditor II

Eugene Holsenbeck, Public Utilities Auditor II

Lauvone Turner, Public Utilities Auditor II

Evandrew Tucker, Accountant II

Laneeta Roberts, Public Utilities Analyst II

Delton Riddle, Utilities Engineering Technician Supervisor

Harold Carson, Utilities Engineering Technician

Lavirt Henderson, Utilities Engineering Technician (Deceased 7/21/97)

Bobby Mobley, Utilities Engineering Technician

Arthur Seay, Utilities Engineering Technician

Retha Bryant, Administrative Support Assistant I

Wayne Wright, Utilities Engineering Director

Earle Fisher, Utilities Engineering Technician Supervisor

Bobby Whisman, Utilities Engineering Technician Super-visor (Retired 7/1/97)

Glenn Darter, Utilities Engineering Technician

Terry Jackson, Utilities Engineering Technician

Catherine Hampton, Administrative Support Assistant I

Larry Smith, Utility Rate Supervisor

Tom Jones, Public Utilities Analyst II

Kenneth Ladd, Public Utilities Analyst II

John W. Tidd, Public Utilities Auditor II (Deceased 6/15/97)

Linda Jones, Clerk Stenographer III

Rita Grantham, Clerk Stenographer III

Robert J. Cannon, Transportation Enforcement Officer II

Jimmy G. Hooks, Transportation Enforcement Officer II (Retired 7/1/97)

John M. Brock, Transportation Enforcement Officer II

Jack W. Clark, Transportation Enforcement Officer II

Horace C. Moore, Transportation Enforcement Officer II

Earl Reeves, Transportation Enforcement Officer II

Leo Sauls, Jr., Transportation Enforcement Officer II

Terry Shirley, Transportation Enforcement Officer II

Ronald E. Hicks, Supervisor

Larry Wingard, Accountant II

Anita F. Smith, Accountant II

Donald Williamson, Accounting Technician I

Monica Jordan, Clerk Stenographer II

Betty Carlisle, Administrative Support Assistant I

Karen Rogers, Administrative Support Assistant I

Betty Elrod, Account Clerk I

Felisa Webster, Administrative Support Assistant I

Deborah Brown, Administrative Support Assistant I

T.W. McCardle, Railway Safety Inspector

John C. Longcrier, Railway Safety Inspector

Danny Arledge, Railway Car Inspector

Larry Coleman, Railway Car Inspector

Peggie Mays, Administrative Support Assistant I

Britt Roberts, Transportation Rate Specialist

John Tidd and Lavirt Henderson, two valued members of the Telecommunications Division, passed away this past year.

John Tidd served the Commission for more than 13 years. His devotion to the Crimson Tide was common knowledge to his co-workers.

During his almost eight years as part of the Commission staff, Lavirt Henderson was known for his upbeat, bubbly personality. Even while battling a series of medical problems, he maintained a positive attitude and spirit.

As a tribute to their many years of service, the 1997 Annual Report of the Public Service Commission is dedicated to the memory of these two men.

LAVIRT HENDERSON

JOHN TIDD

Commission orders issued 1,621

Public hearings held 263

DISBURSEMENTS

The staff consists of a supervisor, an administrative support assistant and three investigators experienced in the field of utility operations and management. The Consumer Services staff resolves consumer complaints, provides information to consumers about the utility regulatory functions of the Commission and interprets and conveys the views and opinions of utility consumers to the Commission for consideration in regulatory matters.

When a complaint is filed, the complainant is interviewed to obtain the circumstances and allegations involved. After reviewing and/or investigating the facts, the staff determines the appropriate action needed to resolve the complaint. A written report is prepared citing details of the complaint and the disposition. Field investigations are routinely conducted.

Upon request, the staff meets with community groups throughout the state regarding regulated utility matters. The staff is available to civic and community groups for speaking engagements regarding the Commission and utility regulation in general.

The section received and processed 8,730 complaints/ inquiries during FY-97. The total consisted of complaints/ inquiries in the following categories: 802 electric, 206 gas, 3,642 telecommunications, 55 no jurisdiction, 746 miscellaneous jurisdictions, and 3,279 miscellaneous inquiries. The staff conducted 114 field investigations and attended 16 meetings.

The functions of the division include financial analysis, legal support, review of state and federal legislation, monitoring and filing comments in proceedings at federal agencies, research, and performing special studies or projects as requested by the Commissioners. Appeals of Commission decisions in the state and federal court systems are handled by Advisory. Other responsibilities include personnel procedures and media relations. The Commission's Data Processing section is also a part of Advisory.

A description of the duties and activities of each section of the Advisory staff follows.

The Natural Gas Advisor also provides information in the form of special projects. The information may include regulatory policies of other states, the authorized rate of return for utilities in other states, or how utilities respond to the needs of low-income customers.

It is the goal of the Natural Gas Advisor to make the Commission aware of changes in the natural gas industry that may affect citizens and industries of Alabama.

The Telecommunications Advisor reviews each telecommunications filing on the Commission's docket and makes recommendations to the Commissioners. The Advisor is also involved in price regulation and local competition issues, rulemaking, research and investigation of consumer inquiries.

The Commission is represented by the Legal Advisor in state and federal courts on appeals, requests for declaratory rulings, and all other court matters. Also, the Legal Advisor works with the Federal Affairs section and outside counsel on comments filed before federal agencies. Plus, the Legal Advisor also reviews and drafts proposed legislation and Commission orders.

The Legal Advisor also represents the Commission as a member of the NARUC Subcommittee on Law.

The main objective of the section has been to automate manual systems at the Commission and provide professional employees with access to computer hardware and software that can aid them in carrying out their responsibilities. That objective has been completed.

The server is an SMP5000 utilizing a random array of independent disks. It presently runs at a speed of 200 MHZ, but can run at 400 MHZ. All client computers are connected through the Ethernet.

The server is presently running Windows NT, and clients either run Windows for Workgroups or Windows 95. Programming is accomplished with the access language.

To accomplish these objectives, the Federal Affairs Section continually monitors and evaluates the activities of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the Surface Transportation Board (STB), the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of Energy (DOE), the Federal Railway Administration (FRA) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The section also monitors and reviews federal court appeals and decisions on utility matters. After evaluating the information, the section recommends actions to be taken.

The section, when appropriate, files comments in proposed rulemakings and other federal proceedings, and intervenes in utility filings before federal agencies.

The Federal Affairs section reviews proposed federal legislation affecting utilities to assess the impact on the Alabama utilities. The section prepares and assists other divisions in preparing correspondence to Congress and Alabama's Congressional delegates expressing the Commission's views on selected proposed legislation.

State legislation activities are also the responsibility of the Federal Affairs section. The section works with the Commission's legislative liaison and technical staff to draft appropriate legislation and monitors its progress. Federal Affairs section personnel attend state legislative committee hearings and testify on proposed bills when necessary. The section's staff serves as the Commission's legislative liaison with the Governor's office.

In preparing special reports on issues that come before the Commission, the Federal Affairs section also monitors and reports on positions taken by other state commissions and the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC).

The section maintains and provides resource materials on federal issues. The section researches and provides information to the Commission's technical staff on any changes in federal regulatory procedures and policies that affect regulation in Alabama.

The Federal Affairs staff represents the Commission on the NARUC Staff Subcommittee on Communications and Staff Subcommittee on Nuclear Issues-Waste Disposal.

The Personnel Office is responsible for the processing and orientation of new employees. It is the source for state and departmental rules, regulations and benefits that apply to employees, and provides them with information in the form of handbooks and manuals.

Requests to fill vacancies in the Commission are processed by the Personnel Office with the coordination of division directors.

The personnel manager is the liaison with the State Personnel Department (SPD), checking to see that every personnel action is in line with state laws and SPD rules and regulations. The personnel manager is also a representative of the Commission at meetings of the State Personnel Board and the Council of Personnel Administrators.

Personnel develops and updates job descriptions on employees. This ensures appropriate classifications are selected for a particular job and may also be used as an indicator for change in classification and pay.

The Public Affairs Coordinator acts as the spokesman for the Commission and as a press aide to the Commissioners, arranging and participating in news conferences and/or interviews as needed.

The coordinator assists the Commissioners in planning sessions and meetings, conducts special assignments requested by the Commissioners and assists staff members in informational and educational matters.

Other responsibilities include attending hearings and meetings of the Commission and reporting the results to the media via news releases and/or personal communications; notifying the media about Commission events; and editing final orders of the Commission.

The coordinator also represents the Commission as its liaison with other governmental agencies.

This responsibility includes the monitoring of the rate stabilization and equalization (RSE) programs used by the Commission to regulate Alabama Power Co. (APCO) and Alabama Gas Corp. Also included in the Energy Division is the Gas Pipeline Safety Section, which monitors the safety of all natural gas systems and hazardous liquid pipeline systems in Alabama.

The Retail Return on Common Equity (RRCE) range for Rate RSE is 13.0 percent to 14.5 percent, with an adjusting point of 13.75 percent.

However, in June 1995, the Commission approved an application by Alabama Power Company to establish return parity between customer classes (Rate CREA). In addition to placing a moratorium on rate increases (but not decreases) under Rate RSE until January 2001, the order provides for: (1) a reduction to 14.00 from 15.00 mills per KWH in the ECR adjustment factor for all rate schedules for the 12 months effective July 1995, (2) a waiver of the July 1995 and July 1996 rate adjustments under Rate CNP applicable to nonresidential rate schedules, and (3) an increase in residential rates together with a commensurate reduction in certain nonresidential rate schedules.

For rate decreases, when the RRCE is above 14.5 percent (upper limit), rates are decreased to bring the return back to the 13.75 percent adjusting point. Adjustments are based on financial results for the 12-month period ending two months prior to the proposed effective date of the change.

The net amount of all rate increases and decreases under Rate RSE since its inception in November 1982 results in a net increase of $124,151,728 or 5.95 percent.

The Electricity section prepares a report for the monthly Commission meeting reflecting the status of energy cost recovered, the accumulated over/under collection, and an updated ECR projection. This projection assumes 100% normal hydrogeneration.

Rate ECR accounts for approximately 28.5 percent of all retail revenues.

In July 1995, the ECR factor was reduced from 15.00 to 14.00 mills to operate through June 1996 and was extended at that time to operate through December 1996. Currently, the ECR factor remains at 14.00 mills per KWH, and recent projections indicate the same factor will be extended from January 1998 through June 1998. At the end of this period, the factor will be re-evaluated.

Also, in December 1996, the Electricity section staff reviewed and recommended approval of a detailed company filing pursuant to Informal Docket U-3658. This informal docket authorizes Alabama Power Company to recognize coal contract buyout costs in Rate ECR per review by the Energy Division staff but without the necessity of formal commission action for each buyout.

The net amount of all CNP adjustments since its inception is an increase of $57,844,727.

Also, on August 29, 1997, Alabama Power Company filed for a certificate of convenience and necessity for the construction and installation of three combined cycle generating units totaling 798 MW at an estimated cost of $290 million. Alabama Power proposes to install two units (total of 532 MW) in the year 2000 and the third unit (for a total of 798 MW) in 2001. If the Commission grants the petition, the company has agreed to waive the operation of Rate CNP for the first two units.

In regard to this matter, the staff is formulating its recommendation. The matter will be decided in FY 1998.

However, due to catastrophic events (Hurricane Opal, Oct. 4, 1995), the Natural Disaster Reserve was substantially depleted. Under the normal monthly accruals of $250,000 established in the original order, it would be more than eight years before the reserve was again restored to the authorized level of $32 million.

Therefore, these conditions prompted the company, in its petition filed March 7, 1997, to request additional authorization to reduce balance sheet items in conjunction with future reductions in retail rates. More specifically, for every dollar of rate reduction, the company would be authorized to reduce balance sheet items (such as production plant in service, cost incurred in the redemption and refinancing of securities, and other deferred assets) by up to five dollars. This one-to-five ratio is appropriate because rates are developed on the basis of annual revenue requirements, and the annual revenue requirement associated with balance sheet items is approximately 20 percent.

During the period from October 1, 1996, through September 30, 1997, Alabama Power Company revised several industrial rate schedules to cause rate reductions to customers on those rates. The company also offered several new optional rates and rate riders that would also reduce rates to customers who opted for these alternative rates. The list to follow categorizes these changes:

BEVT (Business Electric Vehicle Time-of-Use) First revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate Schedule revised to reduce rate.

CFTU (Catfish Farms - Time of Use) effective date 11/1/96. This rate was a first-time offering.

FPL (Unmetered Protective Lighting) 14th revision, effective date 1/1/97.

HLF (High Land Factor -Industrial Power) 11th revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

ILD (Incremental Load - Day Ahead Restricted) first revision, effective 7/1/97. This rate was a first-time offering -- 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

ILTU (Incremental Load - Time of Use Restricted) first revision, effective 7/1/97. This rate was a first-time offering -- 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

LPEM (Restricted Light and Power Service - alternate) 12th revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

LPEL (Restricted Light and Power Service - alternate) 14th revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

LPL (Light and Power Service - Large) 14th revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

LPM (Light and Power Service - Medium) 12th revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

LPLM (Restricted Light and Power Service - Manufacturing alternate) first revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

LPTL (Light and Power - Time of Use - Large - Alternative) fourth revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

LPTS (Time of Use - Small) effective date 1/1/97. This rate rider was a first-time offering.

LPTM (Time of Use - Medium) effective date 1/1/97. This rate rider was a first-time offering.

MTU (Military -Time of Use) effective date 10/1/96. This rate rider was a first-time offering.

OFP (Oil Field - Industrial Power) 10th revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

PAE (Purchase of Alternative Energy) 10th revision, effective date 6/1/97.

PG (Power for Cotton Gins and Peanut Drying Operations) 12th revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

PTU (Poultry -Time of Use) effective date 11/1/96. This rate rider was a first-time offering.

PPP (Price Protection Products - For Real Time Pricing) effective date, 6/1/97. To be used with rates RTPD and RTPH during the months of June-September.

RTP (Real Time Pricing - INDUSTRIAL POWER) fourth revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

RTPD (Real Time Pricing - Day Ahead - Restricted) second revision, effective date 1/1/97.

RTPH (Real Time Pricing - Hour Ahead- Restricted) first revision effective date 1/1/97.

RTP ( Sentry - Temporary -Optional - Original), effective date 8/1/97. To be used with rate RTP during the months of July and August.

SCH (School Service) second revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate schedule revised to reduce rate.

TST (Thermal Storage - Time of Use) first revision, effective date 1/1/97.

XTP (Manufacturing - Restricted) 10th revision, effective date 1/1/97.

XWP (Off-Peak Water Works Pumping- Restricted) 10th revision, effective date 1/1/97.

Food-M (Food Service - Time of Use) effective date, 5/1/97.

Groc-M (Grocery - Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

HCare-M (Health Care - Medium - Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

HCare-L (Health Care - Large - Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

Hosp-M (Hospital - Medium - Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

Lodge-M (Lodging - Medium -Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

Lodge-L (Lodging - Large - Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

Retail-M (Retail - Medium - Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

Retail-L (Retail - Large -Time of Use) effective date 5/1/97.

FMTU (Fabricated Materials - Time of Use) effective date 1/1/97.

PMTU (Primary Metals - Time of Use) effective date 1/1/97.

SCGTU (Stone, Clay and Glass - Time of Use) effective date 1/1/97.

TXTU (Textiles and Apparel - Time of Use) effective date 1/1/97.Rate Scheduling Food-M through TXTU are first-time offerings.

LTC (Rate Rider Long Term Contract) first revision, effective date 1/1/97. Rate Rider is applicable to Rates LPM, LPEM, LPL, LPEL, LPTL and RTP. This rate rider was replaced by CTL -- effective date 7/1/97.

XLTC (Long Term Contracts - Restricted) second revision, effective date 6/1/97. This is a first-time offering. This rate rider is frozen to existing customers.

CTL (Contract Term Discount) effective date 6/1/97. This is a first-time offering and replaces Rate Rider LTC.

Non-Firm Capacity (Interruptible Credit Options) effective date 5/1/9 7. This is a first-time offering that allows interruption of service during peak demand time. Two credit options are available with this rate rider.

1. Issue and sell, during 1997 and 1998, not more than $350,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of additional First Mortgage Bonds and ;
2. Issue and sell, during 1997 and 1998, subordinated debentures, promissory notes or other debt instruments and/or assume obligations as a guarantor in connection with the issuance of preferred securities by a special purpose subsidiary or subsidiaries of Petitioner with an aggregate principal value not exceeding $400,000,000.

The section conducts on-site investigations requiring examination of work papers, financial reports and other records. When necessary, the staff conducts meetings with officials of Alabama Power Company and/or Southern Company Services, Inc. to discuss related matters (company policy, audit exceptions, filings, company programs, etc.)

Forecasts are prepared to project the Retail Return on Common Equity for each point of test in the calendar year and Alabama Power's operation and maintenance expenses. The section also conducts annual analyses on the rate of return on investment by customer classification, the Jurisdictional Allocation Study and the Cost Allocation Report from Southern Company Services, Inc.

The section analyzes and makes recommendations on all tariff changes and special contracts filed by Alabama Power and participates in all proceedings before the Commission that relate to Alabama Power. The section responds to inquiries from law offices, consulting firms, utilities, consumers and other regulatory bodies regarding electric rates, regulatory practices and industry restructuring.

The Natural Gas section evaluated four RSE filings by Alagasco during FY 97.

Alagasco has a real-time temperature adjustment which adjusts bills for the effect of abnormally high or low temperatures on the recover of non-gas costs. The utility also has an incentive program, the Cost Control Measure, under which it must keep growth in operation and maintenance expenses below a specified range, or face penalties. The section monitors both of these programs to ensure they are conducted in accordance with the approved tariff.

The Natural Gas section is responsible for evaluating and making recommendations to the Commission on all matters pertaining to the following local distribution companies:

The most significant project for the year was the start up of Wheeler Basin Natural Gas Company in portions of Morgan and Lawrence Counties. In FY 1996 Wheeler Basin received a certificate from the Commission to operate a new local distribution in its service territory. The section continues to work closely with Wheeler Basin as it works diligently to provide natural gas to the customers in its territory.

During FY 1997, Northeast Gas, Inc. applied for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to construct and operate a natural gas local distribution company in the Ardmore and Elkmont areas of Limestone County. The section, in close cooperation with the Gas Pipeline Safety section, thoroughly investigated the application. The section analyzed numerous work papers, reports, and testimony before ultimately recommending approval of the application.

The section also evaluated an application by Pine Energies, Inc. for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to construct and operate an oil pipeline from the vicinity of Frisco City in Monroe County to northern Escambia County. The section participated in the hearing and made a recommendation to the Legal Division in the form of a proposed order.

The section evaluated the applications by Central Gas Company and Tennessee River Development Company to sell all their assets to the city of Florence. The section participated in the hearing and made a recommendation to the Legal Division in the form of a proposed order. The matter carried over into FY 1998, and was approved in October 1997.

The section investigated, analyzed, and reported on approximately 65 separate additional matters, including special contracts, tariff changes, gas supply adjustments, purchased gas adjustments, new rates, certificates, municipal acquisition audit programs, and related matters. The section also investigated requests for gas service, and responded to a large number of requests by the general public for rate information, financial data, tariff sheets, and other information.

The section reviews and evaluates new water utilities desiring authority to operate, and makes recom-mendations on such applications. The section investigates existing companies seeking to sell their assets, evaluates applications for rate increases, and participates in hearings as appropriate.

Led by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, Office of Water Resources, the section participated in the study of two river basins.

During FY 1997, the Commission received 120 water system complaints and inquiries. Also, a rate surcharge extension that was granted to a utility to recover specific costs due to new ADEM testing requirements was canceled. Additionally, the Commission transferred the operating certificate of Bay S & W Water System to Perdido Bay Water Authority and granted a certificate to East Lowndes Water Association located in Columbus, Mississippi.

The Alabama Public Service Commission currently regulates 121 intrastate gas systems, 99 housing authorities, nine hazardous liquid systems, three liquefied petroleum systems and six liquefied natural gas systems.

The Gas Pipeline Safety section develops and presents programs to promote safe operations by natural gas transmission and distribution systems. When a system is in noncompliance, immediate action is taken.

These responsibilities are accomplished by visiting electricity generating plants, transmission and distribution offices and field operations, monitoring construction projects, arranging and attending various technical meetings with corporate planners within utilities. The Technical Section also provides direct assistance to utility customers through telephone and personal communications, including customer site visits.

The section also provides assistance to other sections in the division and the Commission.

The section makes a diligent effort to stay abreast of the latest technological developments in the electric, gas and water industries. The section also reviews research and development projects undertaken by regulated utility companies.

The Legal Division provides legal advice to the Commissioners and staff members, as well as the public. It prepares written reports and recommended orders, plus drafts many of the final orders of the Commission. The Legal Division also prepares opinions and memoranda on legal questions involving the Commission's jurisdiction. The Legal Division also spends a considerable amount of time involving rulemaking and revision of rules, and works with other divisions in drafting and reviewing legislation for the Commission.

During the past fiscal year, the Legal Division conducted hearings involving approximately 237 matters and processed hundreds of applications not requiring a formal hearing. The length of hearings varies from 30 minutes or so to several days.

A tabulation of the number and types of inquiries handled by the division is not feasible. Such inquiries are numerous and cover subjects as broad as the Commission's jurisdiction and beyond. These inquiries come from the public in general, the Commissioners, staff members, attorneys, the legislature of Alabama, federal agencies, agencies of Alabama and other states, and all types of businesses regulated by the Commission.

The Legal Division assists Commission staff attorneys and outside attorneys in Commission matters before the courts of Alabama, federal courts, and federal agencies.

It is anticipated that the number of hearings and other activities will increase during the upcoming fiscal year.

A description of the duties and activities of each section of the Telecommunications Division during FY 1997 follows.

Under the Price Regulation plan, the Commission no longer regulates Bell based on its costs or earnings levels, nor does it establish depreciation rates. Instead, the Commission directly regulates the prices charged to customers for the tariffed services of BellSouth by giving consideration to market conditions of the telecommunications industry. Price regulation ensures BellSouth is afforded the best opportunity to remain viable in the telecommunications industry that lies ahead.

Four service quality standards (overall trouble report rates, trouble report rates for individual wire centers, held applications and receipt to final status) will be used for the purposes of the BellSouth PRI. These standards will be analyzed annually and can affect the PRI levels associated with annual filings. If one or more of these standards is not met, the efficiency factor, which is initially set at 3 percent, will be increased by 0.25 for each standard missed.

Non-basic services are all those services, excluding interconnection services, which are considered optional, supplemental, and/or discretionary in nature. No price increases were authorized for services assigned to the non-basic category for the first 12 months of the plan. Beginning with year two, any increase in aggregate prices in this category is limited to a maximum of 10 percent for a given year (from one anniversary date to another).

BellSouth petitioned the Commission on November 15, 1996, for approval to make tariff adjustments to the Non-Basic services category offerings pursuant to the restrictions placed on this category. The petition was suspended for 60 days from the filed date to and through 14, 1997. After reviewing the proposed tariff revisions the Commission determined the proposed increases warranted additional time for further investigation to ensure the proposed changes were in the best interest of the Alabama ratepayers and that adequate time was given for customer notification. Therefore, this petition was further suspended for an additional time frame to and through the February Commission meeting.

The Commission staff work group concluded that an examination of the reasonableness of the prices proposed for each individual non-basic service element was appropriate and initiated its element-by-element investigation by requesting written justification from BellSouth for each proposed increase in non-basic services. After meeting with BellSouth representatives, staff concluded that all of the proposed increases appeared reasonable except the increases proposed for non-listed and non-published numbers. The Company agreed to maintain the charges for those two elements at their present levels and to accept a deferred implementation date of March 1, 1997, to allow for adequate customer notification.

The Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires local exchange companies like BellSouth to transfer their pay telephone assets to separate unregulated accounts and to file tariffs removing the recovery of the cost of pay telephone operations from their regulated rates. BellSouth complied with this directive by transferring their pay telephone assets to a separate company, BellSouth Public Communications and filed tariffs as required.

Along with its filing for the introduction of a new service, BellSouth requests assignment of the service into one of the three service categories. BellSouth may also request the reclassification of any service previously assigned to one of the three service categories and is responsible for providing appropriate justification to the Commission to support its request. However, the Commission shall make the final determination regarding the classification or reclassification of any service in accordance with the provisions of the Tariff Requirements section of the Order.

By filing received on May 23, 1997, BellSouth requested and received approval on October 6, 1997, to reclassify Access Line Service for Customer Provided Telephones and SmartLine Service for Public Telephone Access from the Basic Services category to the Inter-connection Services category.

The Commission continues to require tariffs to be filed for all basic, non-basic, and interconnection services. Tariff filings, along with any categorization of services as basic or non-basic, become effective as filed, unless there is intervention by a third party or investigation by the Commission. In the event there is a third-party intervention or Commission investigation of tariff filings for price increases or for categorization of services, the tariffs will be allowed to go into effect subject to a decision by the Commission that the tariff filings are appropriate, just and reasonable. Third party intervention or Commission investigation of tariff filings for price decreases, promotional offerings, and any expansion of services to the approved list of contract service arrangements will result in such filings being suspended pending a decision from the Commission. A summary of tariff requirements is set forth in section 13.07 of the Order.

The section also inspects utility boundary line compliance and the filing of the proper boundary line maps.

The Engineering section performed the following services during FY 1997:

Quality of Service Inspections were performed on the following companies.

Graceba Telephone Company

ALLTEL Leeds Telephone Company

ALLTEL Elmore Coosa Telephone Company

TDS Grove Hill Telephone Company

TDS Butler Telephone Company

National Telephone Company

TDS Goshen Telephone Company

Farmers Telephone Company

Hayneville Telephone Company

Hopper Telephone Company

The Engineering section monitored the following telephone plant construction:

 Consumer Complaints

The Engineering section worked on several other complaints during the fiscal year.

The Engineering section reviewed capital recovery studies and prepared orders for revised depreciation rates for the following companies (some in progress).

The analysis and investigation of the tariffs filed by telecommunications utilities seeking approval of proposed rates, terms, and conditions, are major Commission activities. This is a continuous process in that it takes place before, during and after rate cases, prior to the issuance of an order, and recurs from time to time in the form of requested information or interpretations.

In the case of revisions and additions to an established tariff, the section advised the Commission on the effect of such changes, issues, proper procedures and provides information as needed by the Commissioners.

Upon request, the section advises the various telecommunications utilities about tariff problems and holds conferences on procedural matters concerning rate and tariff applications.

During FY 97, the Tariff section received 93 applications for toll resale and 24 applications for competitive local service in Alabama. The Tariff Section has the responsibility to determine whether the applicant is able to provide adequate service of a reasonable rate on an ongoing basis.

The Tariff section received, analyzed and made recommendations on the following filings:

DOCKET 25652 -UNION SPRINGS TELEPHONE COMPANY -- The purpose of this filing is to increase the returned checks charge from $10 to $15. By letter dated September 23, 1996, company requests filing be withdrawn. Recommend approval of withdrawal.

D-430 - ROANOKE TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing adds a new feature, Do Not Disturb Service, to the customer calling service portion of the tariff and updates language used in the Centrex Service Section.

D-431 - ONEONTA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing reduces the rates for 1 plus and 800 inbound long distance service from $.185 to $.15.

D-432 - MFS INTELENET OF ALABAMA, INC. -- This filing introduces Total Solution Gold Service (Term Plan for $500 monthly minimum usage) and amends Total Solution Series 100 Service. MFS will also grandfather Total Solution Service.

D-433 - OAKMAN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing reinstates the Local Service Guarantee Credit as a service offering. This section was inadvertently left out of the February 1996 tariff rewrite.

D-434 - TOUCH 1 LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- The company will reduce First Touch product rates approximately 2 percent for virtually all distance and time spans.

D-435 - FARMERS TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC. -- This filing adjusts the amounts charged to customers as an "aid to construction." These changes are being made due to the rate rebalancing system.

D-436 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing reduces First Touch (1+) rates.

D-437 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will introduce: 1) MCI Distinct (discounted rates for hearing- and speech-impaired) for dial 1 and credit card service, 2) third party billed intraLATA surcharge ($1.49) for 1-800 COLLECT, 3) Advanced Option 1 as an OCP, and 4) Weekend Savings Plan. This filing will also revise the Calling Circle definition for the Friends and Family Program and discontinue the Text Telephone Discount.

D-439 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- These filings will add Calling Name and Number, and Anonymous Call Rejection to Custom Calling Local Area Signaling Service.

D-440 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing will introduce Per Call/Periodic Billing Name and Address, Data Gathering Service, and End User Validation Lists for TSP's or their authorized B&C agent.

D-441 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing will provide Data Gathering Service and End User Validation Lists for TSP's or their B&C agent.

D-442 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will introduce UNIPLAN Basic Service Option. (This option will allow subscribers to select usage price schedules.) Customers must subscribe to the interstate UNIPLAN Basic Service.

D-443 - CONQUEST OPERATOR SERVICES CORP. -- The company is adding a Prepaid Debit Card, known as ACMI Prepaid Card. A corporate card is depleted at 30 cents per minute, a personal card at 40 cents per minute, and a tourist card at 60 cents per minute.

D-445 - SMARTALK TELESERVICES, INC. -- This filing adds two new services to the tariff: SmarTalk Online Recharge and SmarTalk Recharge at Retail. Both of these services are debit card services.

D-458 - GTE SOUTH INC. -- These filings will add Caller ID-Name and Number to CentraNet Service. Caller ID-Name and Number allows the customer to view the calling party's name and number.

D-459 - SOUTHERNNET, INC., d/b/a TELECOM*USA -- This filing adds SMARTminutes Advantage. This product enables residential subscribers to originate intrastate calls via LEC Feature Group D access lines. Directory Assistance and Operator Services are available to pre-subscribed customers. Rates are fixed at $.095 per minute with a $5 monthly recurring fee.

D-461 - TOUCH 1 LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- This filing will offer a Personal Touch 800 Service. Customers may receive from or place to calls at any place in the state. A flat rate of 25 and 15 cents per minute during peak and off-peak hours, respectively, will apply.

D-462 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- The purpose of this filing is to implement a new 800 service called Personal Touch 800. Various other textual changes have been made.

D-463 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing expands Billed Number Screening to include the provision that if a customer is receiving harassment or nuisance calls, the no third billing option will be offered to them at no charge. Language will be added clarifying nonrecurring charges.

D-464 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing introduces Billed Number Screening service. BNS blocks incoming third number calls, collect calls, or both. This filing will also expand the Toll Restriction offering to include an option for 1+, 0+, and 0- blocking.

D-465 - FARMERS TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC. -- This was filed to reflect changes in the revised tariffs for service to Mobile Homes. It clarifies the language used in "aid to construction" charges.

DOCKET 22746 - COMMUNICATION SOLUTIONS, INC., d/b/a CSI LONG DISTANCE -- On October 9, 1996, Communications Solutions, Inc., d/b/a CSI Long Distance notified this Commission that it has sold its company, is no longer providing long distance resale service in Alabama, and requests its tariff to be withdrawn and cancel the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity.

DOCKET 25534 - GTE SOUTH, INC.-- For approval to implement intraLATA 1+ equal access. Filed May 28, 1996, and suspended to November 10, 1996. This Order further suspends the filing to and through 11, 1997.

DOCKET 25535 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC., d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- For approval to implement intraLATA 1+ equal access. Filed May 28, 1996, and suspended to November 10, 1996. This Order further suspends the filing to and through 11, 1997.

D-433 - OAKMAN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing reinstates the Local Service Guarantee Credit as a service offering. This section was inadvertently left out of the February 1996 tariff rewrite.

D-447 - GTE CARD SERVICES -- This filing makes verbiage changes requested by the Commission staff.

D-449 - ALLTEL LONG DISTANCE -- This filing will introduce Business One Service. Business One is a switched and dedicated commercial long distance product offered to single and multi-location businesses.

D-466 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS -- This filing introduces SDDN (Software Defined Digital Network) Schedule P (1.536 Mbps at on-network locations). AT&T will also reduce rates for 1.536 Mbps Switched Digital Service.

D-467 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing will introduce flexible packaging of Smart Call and Custom Calling features for residential customers.

D-471 - WORLD TELECOM GROUP, INC. -- This filing introduces the AmeriPlus service offerings and clarifies language used in the tariff. AmeriPlus is a competitive switched service offering inbound, outbound, and calling card services.

D-472 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing adds Visual Message Waiting Indication and Audible Message Waiting Indication features for customers who subscribe to voice mail.

D-473 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will introduce network MCI One, Sent Paid Coin rates, Friends and Family Option C (discounts for gross usage). MCI has also revised the billing increments and term commitment usage rates for Advanced Option 1 for Small Business.

D-475 - CITIZENS TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY -- The company added residential products, 1+ Switched Access and 800 Services, and business products, Business 250 and Dedicated Access 1+ Services, for high volume users. A Prepaid Calling Card is also available. All products are flat-rated.

D-476 - GULF TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing will reduce rates for most GulfStar and Custom Calling features. The company will also introduce five new features along with packages of services and make verbiage changes.

D-480 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing will introduce flexible packaging of Smart Call and Custom Calling features for residential customers.

D-481 - BRINDLEE MOUNTAIN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing corrects the original BMTC ACS filing effective October 1, 1996. The ACS rates were reduced prior to implementation.

D-482 - WORLDCOM, INC., d/b/a LDDS WORLDCOM -- This filing adds a billing feature charge of one dollar per month to the regular monthly invoice of business customers who request any type of summary report.

D-483 - WORLDCOM, INC., d/b/a LDDS WORLDCOM -- This filing is to add a promotional offering for customers subscribing to "WorldCom Advantage Plus II" during the period of October 22, through December 31, 1996. The offering includes switched and dedicated services for inbound and outbound calling. The discount offered depends upon the monthly minimum usage and the length of commitment agreed too.

D-484 - FARMERS TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC. -- This filing is to replace a page in the tariff that was forgotten in the July 1, 1996, Rate Rebalancing filing. It does not affect any Rule, Rate, or Regulation.

D-485 - AT&T COMMUNICATION -- This filing will increase the local channel rates on many private line services to align them with the LEC access rates.

D-487 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing will introduce Pinnacle, Pinnacle for Associations, Aspect, and Aspect for Associations. These are term agreement plans designed for the customers who use at least $150 month toll.

D-486 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- This revision corrects a page of a previous filing.

D-488 - VARTEC TELECOM, INC. -- This filing makes textual changes requested by Commission staff.

D-489 - UNION SPRINGS TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing adds Classroom Communications Services to the tariff.

D-490 - A.B.T.S. INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION -- The company will offer a second option to One Plus Service. In addition to time-of-day and mileage sensitive rates, the customer may choose a flat rate of $.095 per minute with a monthly recurring charge of $3 per customer.

D-491 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing adds Sprint Sense Day Service and makes various textual changes to the tariff. Sprint Sense Day Service provides flat rated, non-distance sensitive and non-time-of-day sensitive products.

D-492 -ALLNET COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES INC. (ALLNET), d/b/a FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES -- This filing modifies the usage rates for Frontier Callnet 1+ and HomeSaver 1+ services. It increases the day rate percent and decreases the night/weekend rate percent.

D-493 - EXCEL CARD SERVICES, INC. -- This filing will revise the billing increments for PremierPLUS II and Simply One from one to six seconds.

D-494 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INC. -- This filing will introduce new residential and business 800 service offerings.

D-495 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP. -- The purpose of this filing is to revise the usage rates for Dedicated Leased Line Service. MCI will also introduce DSO Hubless Access Service. This is a digital transmission service providing data speeds of 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, 56, or 64 kbps.

D-496 - MOUNDVILLE TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing corrects a typographical error that was made in the original July 7th filing. It does not affect any rates, rules, or regulations.

D-497 - PEOPLES TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing adds Interconnection Services for Mobile Service Providers (MSP) to the tariff.

D-498 - LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECOM CORPORATION -- This filing will 1) grandfather Integrity Options A and B, 2) restructure the rates for Simply Guaranteed and Integrity Option C to introduce IntraLATA, 3) introduce a new option of Simply Business, and 4) start three new promotions.

D-499 - BLOUNTSVILLE TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing adds a new advanced custom calling feature called Toll 1 Code Restriction to the Tariff. This feature allows the subscriber to dial an authorization code and override the toll restriction on a per-call basis.

D-501 - TTI NATIONAL, INC. -- The company will introduce a new calling service, Combined Business Calling Plan, and a travel card. The travel card is applicable to the new service which is for switched and dedicated inbound and outbound "800" service. There is a $2 monthly recurring charge and calls are usage sensitive per minute.

D-502 - ALLTEL LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- This filing will introduce a new long distance offering (Current Direct Dialed LDMTS).

D-503 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will revise the regulation section of the tariff concerning payment arrangements.

D-504 - DIAL & SAVE OF ALABAMA, INC., d/b/a DIAL & SAVE -- This filing incorporates regulations for the collection of advance payments, deposits, and late payment charges. It also reduces the rates for its debit card service and adds two new services, Affinity Association Program and Dial & Save Flat Rate II. The Affinity program is available to business or residential customers and is billed in six-second increments with an 18-second minimum. Dial & Save Flat Rate II is offered to residential customers only and is billed in one-minute increments.

D-505 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -- The company will offer its Digital Date Communications Service on an unlimited, flat-rate basis at $95 per month.

D-506 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will reduce the per-unit rate for Prepaid Card Service.

D-507 - COMMUNIGROUP OF NORTH ALABAMA, INC., d/b/a COMMUNIGROUP OF ALABAMA, INC. -- This filing will clarify language, implement a late charge penalty fee, and increase the casual user administrative fee from $2 to $5.

D-508 - AMERITECH COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC. -- This filing will reduce rates for all Dial 1 products and Debit Card calls.

D-509 - USX CONSULTANTS, INC. -- This filing adds the Steel Card Calling Card rate Options B and C to the calling card services.

D-510 - USX CONSULTANTS, INC. -- This filing restructures Plan B inbound and outbound switched access and dedicated access services and reduces rates.

D-511 - USX CONSULTANTS, INC. -- This filing adds the definitions of Plan C, introduces Plan CX-Net Connect, X-Net Direct Connect, X-Net Connect 800, and X-Net. Direct Connect 800 Plan C is a provisioning option and means the customer is provisioned via Underlying Carrier C.

D-512 - USX CONSULTANTS, INC. -- This filing adds definitions, modifies rules, and makes miscellaneous text charges.

D-513 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will make textual changes to basic MTS and CTS services concerning enrollment and beginning dates.

D-514 - GTE SOUTH INCORPORATED -- This filing removes the concurrence with BellSouth's MTS and WATS tariffs. The company will file its own tariff and rates which mirror current BellSouth rates.

D-515 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INCORPORATED, d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing removes the concurrence with BellSouth's MTS and WATS tariffs. The company will file its own tariff and rates which mirror current BellSouth rates.

D-516 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION (MCI) -- This filing makes various tariff revisions: remove Friends and Family DA and Credit Card discounts, revise Friends and Family Option B, revise the card surcharge for Basic Calling Plan, reduce rates for hospitality MCI, increase rates for Flat Rate Plus, and make textual changes to MCI Masters and the Vision Service Package Fee.

D-517 - WORLDCOM NETWORK SERVICES, INC., d/b/a WILTEL NETWORK SERVICES -- This filing decreases the rates for LEC Billed Measured Service (casual calling) and increases the surcharge for all casual calling usage.

D-518 - OPERATOR COMMUNICATIONS, INC., d/b/a ONCOR COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing changes the InterLATA measured service rates to mirror the AT&T rates.

D-519 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing introduces a Casual Caller Service charge. This $.80 per-call charge will be applied to each casual caller call placed via direct dial or operator-assisted station-to-station or person-to-person, excluding intraLATA and directory assistance.

D-528 - FARMERS TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC. -- This filing modifies the way in which Farmers handles returned checks from customers. The proposed Tariff will allow Farmers to have checks with the value of $150 or less sent to a check collecting company. Checks for over $150 and certain other "Non-qualified" checks will be handled by Farmers in the regular way. Non-qualified checks are those from customers who have had three or more returned checks and for those returned as stolen, forged, or marked "Stop Payment."

D-531 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED -- These filings revise the Service Performance Guarantee. The changes will allow customers service credit when Contel does not meet their commitment date.

D-533 - NETWORK PLUS, INC. -- This filing deletes all reference to AT&T as the underlying carrier. The company will now use Sprint as the underlying carrier.

D-534 - MFS INTELENET OF ALABAMA, INC. -- Filed November 18, 1996, with a requested effective date of November 25, 1996. This filing makes verbiage changes to the terms and conditions section of the Tariff concerning answer supervision and the customer's responsibility.

D-541 - RAGLAND TELEPHONE CO., INC. -- These filings comply with the May 23, 1996, order related to the Rate Rebalancing Plan. The rates that have been changed were inadvertently overlooked when the original filings were submitted.

D-538 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF ALABAMA -- These filings request the authority to place billing and collection under contract services. They also make the wording consistent between all Frontier Company Tariffs in Alabama.

DOCKET 25764 - EXCEL TELECOMMUNICATIONS INCORPORATED -- For a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to provide Commercial Mobile Service in the state of Alabama.

DOCKET 19371 - TMC OF LOUISIANA, d/b/a COMTEL, d/b/a COMTEL-TMC -- For approval to cancel Tariff and Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity.

D-523 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED -- This filing will introduce two new business services and clarify the terms of an existing savings plan.

D-543 - CABLE & WIRELESS, INC. -- This filing increases rates for Long Distance, Focus II, Focus III, Excel, Venture, VNS, and Simplicity. It also decreases certain rates for Venture, VNS, Simplicity, and Prepaid Calling Card Plan B-Asia Direct and makes other minor revisions.

D-544 - INTERMEDIA COMMUNICATIONS OF FLORIDA, INC. --This filing modifies terms and definitions of the tariff. It adds Operator Services, adds several switched inbound/outbound long distance services to the tariff, and changes the Frame Relay Service offering. It also eliminates holiday discount offerings.

D-545 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will implement a special arrangement rate for SDN and MegaCom 800. This is an add-on to the interstate product.

D-546 - GULF TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing clarifies the rates for traffic transported over BellSouth facilities and terminated to another LEC exchange. The traffic-sensitive rates listed in the Gulf Tariff will apply to all terminating traffic over BellSouth facilities pursuant to interconnection or resale agreements between BellSouth and other telecommunications providers.

D-547 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will increase rates for MCI the Sure Savings Option.

D-548 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing reserves several services for currently subscribed customers. These services will no longer be available to new customers.

D-549 - LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECOM CORPORATION -- This filing will introduce Option T and change the rates on SFI Dial 1 service.

D-550 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -- This filing adds Voice Messaging Integration. This will add another line at the business rate for businesses subscribing, plus $250 monthly to integrate the voice messaging line with the central office. A collateral monthly charge of $.50 per line provides a stutter dial tone, and Centrex subscribers may be provided a lamp indicator for $1.50 per month.

D-551 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED

D-552 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INCORPORATED, d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- These filings will make minor textual and administrative changes to previous filings.

D-554 - IXC LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- By filing December 3, 1996, the company will reduce per-minute rates of its Dial Access 1+ and Switched Termination 800 Services and offer employee discounts effective December 7, 1996.

D-555 - ROANOKE TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing clarifies language and reduces the rates for Two Plus Long Distance (MTS).

D-568 - VALLEY TELEPHONE COMPANY -- These filings add Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) to the tariffs.

D-561 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing will make two name changes along with minor textual changes. Touch 1 will also increase the return check charge from $10 to $20.

D-562 - NATIONAL TELEPHONE OF ALABAMA, INC., d/b/a CHEROKEE TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing makes textual changes in compliance with Rule T-12 concerning customer responsibility for payment of charges.

D-563 - SOUTHERNNET, INC. -- The company will offer Toll Free and Buy Down Plans of their SMARTminutes product. Toll Free is an inbound and outbound commercial service that allows customers access through local exchanges either by presubscribing or dialing a company carrier identification code. Buy Down Plan is an outbound commercial service accessed in the same manner as Toll Free. The company has also reduced Directory Assistance from 60 to 39 cents per call.

D-564 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. --The company eliminates Non Local Transport Restructure rates in lieu of Tandem Switched Transport rates already in effect.

D-565 - TOUCH 1 LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- The company increases the return check charge from $10 to $20. Concurrently, the "Personal Touch 800 Service" name was changed to "Personal Touch 800/888 Service."

D-566 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC. -- The company reduced the flat-rate, per-minute usage charge of Option II Debit Card from 40 to 25 cents.

D-572 - BRINDLEE MOUNTAIN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing concurs with Gulf Telephone Company's Access Services Tariff concerning terminating traffic over BellSouth facilities.

D-573 - GULF TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing makes a minor adjustment to the monthly Transition Service Fund amount.

D-578-FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH -- These filings clarify language and make all Frontier Company tariffs in Alabama consistent with each other. The filings also includes miscellaneous administrative clean-up.

D-575 - WORLDCOM, INC., d/b/a LDDS WORLDCOM ALABAMA -- This filing expands the description for "casual calls" billed by the LEC and changes the reference of such calls to "LEC Billed Measured Service." It does not change any rates.

D-576 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will discontinue the Connect N Save calling plan after December 31, 1996. All subscribers will be enrolled in the AT&T One Rate Plan.

D-579 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED --This filing will make language changes to Remote Call Forwarding service. RCF can be provided within the same exchange or calling scope.

D-580 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will introduce a Dollar Option Prepaid Calling Card. The rate is 35 cents per minute.

DOCKET 25804-PSP MARKETING GROUP, INC. -- For approval to amend name of company to PSP Marketing Group, Inc., d/b/a THE I.T. Group.

DOCKET 25735-MILLIWAVE LIMITED PARTNERSHIP -- For approval to withdraw petition to provide telecommunications services.

D-581 - BUSINESS TELECOM, INC., d/b/a BTI -- This filing adds a new service called Home Plus Toll Free. This service is an inbound service targeted to residential customers.

D-582 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing adds Sprint Sense College Plan Stand-Alone FONCARD, increases the per-minute usage rates for operator service, increases the per-call charge for FONCARD service, reduces the rate in the 41-55 mileage band for FONCARD service, and adds a per-call, pay-phone service charge.

D-583 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will grandfather Option C of the Friends and Family Program.

D-584 - ALTERNATIVE LONG DISTANCE, d/b/a MONEY $AVERS -- This filing will introduce Simplicity Calling Plans. There are four options available by dialing the company's access code.

D-585 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing makes various rate and textual changes: 1)increase in the expedite charge for Prism 1 and 2, Dedicated Leased Line, 800, and network MCI One services; 2) discontinue Friends and Family Free Days and Programs and discounts on national holidays; 3) grandfather Sure-Save Sense and Reach; and 4) discontinue flat rate plus volume discounts.

D-586 - COMMUNICATION NETWORK SERVICES -- This filing will change the 1-800 accounting codes, monthly fees, and the vanity product name. Switched and dedicated rates have also been reduced.

D-587 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED, d/b/a GTE LONG DISTANCE -- This filing introduces a new service called "One Easy Plan." This is a flat rate for all direct dial calls.

D-588 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH INC., d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing removes verbiage concerning Base Rate Areas.

D-589 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing clarifies certain special construction charges in order to better align the tariff with Contel.

D-590 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC., d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH

D-591 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED -- These filings grandfather Measured Home LATA and Measured Circle Calling optional calling plans and introduce two new discount calling plans. These plans will apply discounts based on monthly usage.

D-593 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing reduces the rates for UniPlan Service Flat Rate Pricing Option and UniPlan Basic Service Option.

D-594 - ROANOKE TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing adds subscriber Identified Ringing Arrangements (SIRA). This service enables two or three directory numbers to share the same line so a subscriber can receive calls that are dialed to as many as three separate telephone numbers without installing additional lines.

D-595 - LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECOM CORP. -- This filing makes various changes. The changes include: 1) change the billing increments for Simply Business and Alternative, 2) increase WorldCard surcharge, and 3) increase the surcharge and evening and N/W usage rates for WorldCard Plus Calling Card.

D-598 - BRINDLEE MOUNTAIN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing will introduce a new Centrex Service (Centrex 11) and grandfather the existing Centrex offering.

D-599 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED, d/b/a LONG DISTANCE -- This filing will introduce Private Line Service.

D-600 - CENTURY TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- By filings of January 9, 1997, the company has reduced Message Toll

Service rates throughout the mileage and time-of-day spectrums to mirror those of AT&T.

D-601 - LONG DISTANCE WHOLESALE CLUB -- This filing reduces the rates for LDWC Residential Calling Program. It reduces the recurring charge for the Flat Rate Residential Program and introduces the 1350 Flat Rate Residential Program.

D-604- FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF LAMAR COUNTY, INC. -- These filings make corrections to the Restoration Charges Section.

D-605 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will Grandfather Advanced Option 1 (variation of direct dial service).

D-607 - TOUCH 1 LONG DISTANCES, INC. -- These filings will introduce "Pure and Simple," a flat rate dial 1 service.

D-616 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -- These filings are in compliance with FCC Docket No. 96-439 Order on Reconsideration of Pay Telephone Reclassification and Compensation Provisions of the Telecom Act of 1996. Public, semi-public, and customer-owned, coin telephone services are being replaced with coin telephone access line service effective April 15, 1997.

D-613 - COLORADO RIVER COMMUNICATIONS CORP. -- This filing adds a prepaid calling card product.

D-614 - SMARTALK TELESERVICES, INC. -- This filing revises rate structures, adds a new credit card calling service, and makes textual changes.

D-615 - MFS INTELENET OF ALABAMA -- This filing revises the rates for Calling Card Service and makes minor text changes.

D-617 - QWEST COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing is to introduce several new services and to change the rates for the Alliance Program to be more competitive. Count on Qwest is an outbound, multi-point service designed for businesses. Intrastate rates are $0.155 per minute with an initial period of one minute and thereafter billed in six-second increments. Qwest Connections is a residential outbound service. It is billed at $0.165 per minute during peak hours and $0.125 per minute during off peak hours. Qwest Connections - Business is a business arrangement for outbound service. It is billed at a flat $0.130 per minute rate. Both are billed in six second increments. Program 902 is a service designed for residential customers with varying usage. It is available as an inbound or outbound service. All calls are billed in six-second increments. Outbound calls are rated at $0.149 per minute peak and $0.129 off peak, and all inbound calls at $0.149 per minute. Program 527 is a service available to customers who purchase a Qwest-operated satellite dish, it is an inbound/outbound service billed at $0.199 per minute.

D-618 - VARTEC TELECOM, INC. -- This revision will reduce rates for TollSaver and TollSaver II services.

D-620 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF ALABAMA, INC. -- This filing introduces Visual Message Waiting Indication and Audible Message Waiting Indication to its Custom Calling services.

D-621 - BRINDLEE MOUNTAIN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing will introduce Cellular Interconnection terms, regulations, and rates.

D-622 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED -- The purpose of this filing is to introduce Large Business Voice Service. This is for customers who generate annual long distance charges of $24,000 to $360,000.

D-625 - WORLDCOM INC, d/b/a LDDS WORLDCOM -- This filing is to delete the fictitious name "LDDS WorldCom" from the company name. The company was operating under the name WorldCom, Inc., d/b/a LDDS WorldCom. There are no other changes to Rules, Regulations, or Rates.

DOCKET 23588 - PENNSYLVANIA ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATIONS, INC., d/b/a PACE LONG DISTANCE -- For approval to cancel Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to provide Telephone Toll Resale Service in the state of Alabama.

D-626 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will reduce State Calling Service schedules A and B of Option 1.

D-627 - CENTURY TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- Debit Card rates are increased to collect sales and excise taxes by including them in prepaid cost. Text is amended to isolate this collection in Debit Card tariffs only.

D-628 - INTERLINK TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing adjusts the rates for Debit Card Services. This will allow the company to pass on savings to both agents and consumers.

D-629 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing makes textual changes to Telecommunications Relay Service.

D-630 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will implement a special arrangement rate for State Calling Service, MegaCom 800, and 800 ReadyLine services. These arrangements will be an add-on to interstate contract arrangements.

D-631 - PREFERRED CARRIER SERVICES, INC. -- This filing adds a new service called the "Qplan." This plan offers a flat rate regardless of time of day or mileage.

D-632 - DIAL & SAVE OF ALABAMA, INC., d/b/a DIAL & SAVE -- This filing incorporates IntraLATA rates for USA Savings Plan within the GTE calling area.

D-633 - ALLTEL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- Per FCC Docket 96-128, payphone services are deregulated. Per FCC Docket 91-35, also, Flexible Automatic Number Identification and Originating Line Screening services are added.

D-636 - AMERICAN EXPRESS TELECOM, INC. -- This filing makes various textual changes as well as changes to Card Service.

D-639 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing adds new services, modifies existing services, eliminates services, and makes textual changes.

D-650 - UNION SPRINGS TELEPHONE COMPANY -- These filings increase the Returned Check Charge to $20.

D-641 - BLOUNTSVILLE TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing adds advanced custom calling features to the tariff. Features added are: 1) Caller ID - Deluxe, name and number delivery, 2) Anonymous Call Rejection, and 3) Call Waiting Deluxe.

D-647 - LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECOM, CORP. -- This filing will increase the usage rates for 800 Travel Card Services.

D-648 - CABLE & WIRELESS, INC. -- This filing introduces Personal Office, a stand-alone service that includes direct dial, conference calling, and other features available at rates currently published in this tariff. It also raises the Travel Card rates approximately 5 percent and the BFI service 4 percent. It reduces most of the Operator service rates.

D-651 - CITIZENS TELECOMMUNICATIONS, CO. -- Adds 12-month contracts with optional monthly extensions for Switched Access 1+, 800, and Calling Card service.

D-652 - MINIMUM RATE PRICING, INC. -- This filing will introduce a flat rate residential service. The company will also introduce language that will prohibit any customer from being transferred to another long distance carrier or "slammed" without their knowledge.

D-653 - HOSPITALITY COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION, d/b/a HCC TELEMANAGEMENT -- This filing replaces the original tariff on file and introduces a new product called Term Plan. This service combines all intrastate, interstate, and international usage.

DOCKET 25588 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INCORPORATED and INTERMEDIA COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- For approval to amend Interconnection Agreement.

DOCKET U-3731 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and LCI INTERNATIONAL, INC., ("LCI") -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and LCI International, Inc.

DOCKET U-3740 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECOM CORP. ("LCI") -- Filed February 21, 1997. Resale agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., and LCI International Telecom Corp.

DOCKET U-3743 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. ("BELLSOUTH") and ICG TELECOM GROUP, INC., -- Filed March 3, 1997. For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and ICG Telecom Group, Inc.

DOCKET U-3744 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. ("BELLSOUTH") and AMERICAN COMMUNICATION SERVICES, INC., ("ACSI") -- Filed February 21, 1997. For approval of the Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and American Communication Services, Inc., ("ACSI").

DOCKET 24202 - NATIONAL TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS, INC., d/b/a NATELECOM, INC. ("NTC") -- For approval to change the corporate name to National Telephone & Communications, Inc., d/b/a Natelecom, Inc.

DOCKET 25394 - AMERICAN COMMUNICATION SERVICES, INC. --For approval to add concurrence to filed Tariff.

DOCKET 25567 - LONG DISTANCE DIRECT HOLDINGS, INC. -- For approval to withdraw application for Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to provide Telephone Toll Resale.

DOCKET 25707 - PINE BELT TELEPHONE COMPANY, INCORPORATED -- For approval to transfer public pay phone assets. This request is pursuant to Telephone Rule 13.

DOCKET 25873 - ICG TELECOM GROUP, INC., and GTE SOUTH, INC., CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between ICG Telecom Group, Inc., and GTE South, Inc., Contel of the South, Inc.

DOCKET U-3742 - GTE SOUTH, INC., and BELLSOUTH MOBILITY, INC. -- Filed March 11, 1997. For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between GTE South, Inc., and BellSouth Mobility, Inc.

D-638 - FLORALA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- To correct trunk classification to PBX trunks.

D-654 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC. -- Increase OMNI Debit Card rates from 25 to 40 cents per minute and revise the OMNI per call surcharge to 90 cents. Also, the Product 1 nomenclature has been changed to Preferred Value, with an increase of minimum usage volume to qualify for higher discount tiers.

D-655 - DELTACOM, INC. -- These proposed tariff revisions will reduce usage charges for Operator Service rates and increase the surcharge for Customer Dialed/Operator Assisted Calling Card.

D-656 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED

D-657 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC., d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- These revisions will condense the Long Distance calling period to two periods (peak and off-peak). This filing also eliminates different rates in each mileage band and introduces a flat rate that is not mileage sensitive.

D-658 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- Filed February 25, 1997, with a requested effective date of March 4, 1997. The purpose of this filing is to increase the non-subscriber service charge from $.80 to $1.30. This charge applies to a dial station, operator station, person-to-person, or real time rated call that is billed to a residential line not presubscribed to AT&T.

D-659 - CONQUEST OPERATOR SERVICES CORP. -- Filed February 28, 1997, with an effective date of March 7, 1997, adds the definition of "Account Inactivity." This defines the terms and consequences and resultant action by the company for non-use of the service by the customer.

D-660 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -- Filed October 9, 1996, with an effective date of November 8, 1996, changes termination liability to match interstate liability. There will be no customer impact.

D-661 - HOME OWNERS LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- Filed February 25, 1997, with a requested effective date of March 4, 1997. This filing will implement a monthly service fee of $2.68 to cover monthly billing expenses (only applied if there is monthly usage).

D-700 - GRACEBA TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- These filings are to comply with FCC Docket 96-128, which addresses the deregulation of pay phone equipment. These tariff pages change public telephone, semi-public telephone, and COCOT service to pay station service.

D-667 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- Filed March 3, 1997, with a requested effective date of March 8, 1997. This filing will introduce Operator Transfer Service. This 55-cent fee applies to all calls when an AT&T customer dials 0-, gets the LEC operator, and requests to be transferred to AT&T.

D-668 - PREFERRED CARRIER SERVICES, INC. -- This filing adds a per-call service charge to Preferred Travel Service II.

D-669 - EQUALNET CORPORATION -- This filing is a new tariff for EqualNet and will be Tariff No. 2. This tariff supersedes Tariff No. 1 and also adds several new services.

D-673 - GULF TELEPHONE COMPANY -- The purpose of this filing is to introduce ISDN as a new service offering.

D-674 - EXCEL TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing will increase the evening and night/weekend rates for Excel Plus, Excel Plus II, and Premier Plus II. The company will also make minor verbiage changes.

D-677 - GULF TELEPHONE COMPANY --This filing will adjust the total monthly amounts for the Alabama Service Fund and the Transition Service Fund. The switched access rates for Gulf and other LEC participants of the ASF and TSF have also been revised.

D-679 - NATIONAL TELEPHONE & COMMUNICATIONS, INC., d/b/a NATELECOM, INC. -- This filing reduces the return check charge.

D-697 - ONEONTA TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing reduces rates for Intrastate Access.

D-699 - VARTEC TELECOM, INC. -- This filing will add Small Change Affinity Edition, Aspire and Travel Card Service. The company has also made several textual and verbiage changes.

D-701 - NYNEX LONG DISTANCE COMPANY, INC., -- Offers a flat-rated toll service for residential and business customers subject to volume discounts with a monthly minimum billing requirement. It also adds teleconference and long distance Fax services.

D-702 - NYNEX LONG DISTANCE COMPANY, INC., -- Removes the monthly minimum billing requirement from flat-rated toll service to residential customers.

DOCKET U-3745 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and GADSDEN CELLTELCO -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Gadsden CellTelCo.

DOCKET U-3746 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and GTE MOBILNET OF HUNTSVILLE, INCORPORATED -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and GTE Mobilnet of Huntsville Incorporated.

DOCKET U-3747 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and GTE MOBILNET OF THE SOUTH, INCORPORATED -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and GTE Mobilnet of the South Incorporated.

DOCKET U-3748 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and GTE MOBILNET OF BIRMINGHAM, INCORPORATED -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and GTE Mobilnet of Birmingham Incorporated.

DOCKET U-3749 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and KMC TELECOM, INC. ("KMC") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and KMC Telecom, Inc. ("KMC").

DOCKET U-3751 - GTE and SPRINT SPECTRUM L.P. -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between GTE and Sprint Spectrum L.P.

DOCKET U-3752 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and GTE MOBILNET OF ALABAMA, INCORPORATED -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and GTE Mobilnet of Alabama Incorporated.

DOCKET U-3753 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and TUSCALOOSA CELLULAR PARTNERSHIP -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Tuscaloosa Cellular Partnership.

DOCKET U-3754 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and GTE MOBILNET OF FLORENCE, ALABAMA, INCORPORATED -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and GTE Mobilnet of Florence, Alabama Incorporated.

DOCKET U-3755 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and ALABAMA 1 - FRANKLIN RSA PARTNERSHIP -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Alabama 1 - Franklin RSA Partnership.

DOCKET U-3756 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. , ("BELLSOUTH") and POWERTEL, INC. ("POWERTEL") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Powertel, Inc. ("Powertel").

DOCKET U-3757 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and TEL-LINK, L.L.C. ("TEL-LINK") -- For approval of the Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and TEL-LINK, L.L.C. ("TEL-LINK").

DOCKET U-3758 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and INTERCEL, INC. ("INTERCEL") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and InterCel, Inc. ("InterCel").

DOCKET U-3759 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and ALLTEL MOBILE COMMU-NICATIONS, INC. ("ALLTEL") -- For approval of the Inter-connection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Alltel Mobile Communications, Inc. ("Alltel").

DOCKET U-3760 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and PALMER WIRELESS, INC. ("PALMER") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Palmer Wireless, Inc. ("Palmer").

DOCKET U-3761 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and BELLSOUTH CELLULAR CORPORATION ("BELLSOUTH CELLULAR") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and BellSouth Cellular Corporation ("BellSouth Cellular").

DOCKET U-3763 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and DELTACOM, INC. ("DELTACOM") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and DeltaCom, Inc. ("DeltaCom").

DOCKET 25458 - CITIZENS TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, INC., d/b/a CITIZENS TELECOM -- Asks approval to change the corporate name to Citizens Telecommunications Company, Inc., d/b/a Citizens Communications Company.

DOCKET 23412 - VOYAGER NETWORKS, INC. -- Filed by letter dated March 17, 1997, for approval to cancel Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to provide Telephone Toll Resale Service in the state of Alabama. The company currently has no subscribers in Alabama.

DOCKET 25203 - INTELLICOM SOLUTIONS, INC. -- Now known as XL Connect Services, Inc. Filed March 24, 1997, for approval to cancel Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to provide Telephone Toll Resale Service in the state of Alabama.

D-704 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF ALABAMA, INC., -- These filings grandfather Caller Identification (number only) and add Anonymous Call Rejection to the tariff.

D-707 - WORLDCOM, INC. -- This filing increases the per-call surcharge and Directory Assistance charge. The Directory Assistance charge is still below the maximum authorized by the Commission.

D-708 - WORLDCOM NETWORK SERVICES, INC., d/b/a WILTEL NETWORK SERVICES -- This filing increases the per-call surcharge for LEC Billed Measured Service.

D-709 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing increases some service charges for Sprint.

D-711 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing introduces IntraLATA inbound rates for UniPlan Flat Rate and Basic Options.

D-713 - BRITTAN COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORP. -- Adds Across America and One Rate plans, with ancillary 800 and Travel Card Services. New subscribers are precluded from the previous 1+ Long Distance Service, and these plans carry monthly recurring charges in addition to flat rate, discounted per minute rates.

D-714 - COAST INTERNATIONAL, INC. -- Expands product offerings from basic Message Telecommunications Service (MTS) and 800 Service to allow for Flat Rate Service and to differentiate between residential and business use. Mileage sensitive rates incurred a drastic reduction attendantly.

D-715 - HOPPER TELECOMMUNICATIONS CO., INC. -- Allows 45 percent discount to all churches and schools, provided the telephone is located on site.

D-761 - ONEONTA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- These filings comply with FCC Docket 96-128, which addresses the deregulation of pay phone equipment. These tariff pages change public telephone, semi-public telephone, and COCOT service to pay station service.

D-719 - ONEONTA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing increases rates on some Custom Calling Services and implements a new charge for Toll Restriction. This filing is made in conjunction with the SPI report.

D-721 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF LAMAR COUNTY, INC. -- This filing changes the tariff for access line service for pay stations as requested by Commission staff.

D-725 - NATIONAL TELEPHONE & COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -Adds Simple Choice, Futuresaver, Executive No Surprises, Equinox, Suresaver Gold Service, Easy One, Save Our Schools, and No Surprises - Business products.

D-730 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -Changes the tariff for access line service for pay stations as requested by Commission staff.

D-731 - SOUTHERNNET, INC. -- To terminate SMARTminutes service to new customers and to subject operator assistance calls to the surcharge.

D-732 - FLORALA TELEPHONE CO., INC. -- To eliminate Common Carrier Line access rates in accordance with rate-rebalancing order.

D-733 - LDC TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing deletes LDC Plan A and 800 Service and introduces Plans D, E, and Q. (Dial 1 Services).

D-734 - FLORALA TELEPHONE CO., INC. -- To implement an Optional Calling Plan. Florala and Wing subscribers may place unlimited calls to Andalusia at a flat rate of $10.70 in addition to Basic Local Exchange rate (currently $10.70 monthly), or in the alternative, to pay a flat rate of $4 Business and $2 Residence monthly to receive a 60 percent discount on all such toll calls. This is intended to mirror the GTE plan on the reverse route.

D-737 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will: 1) revise Directory Assistance, 800 Service rates, Vision rates, and NetworkMCI One rates; 2) remove Friends and Family discounts from Credit Card service; 3) increase the Vision Card surcharge; 4) introduce HomeMCI One (Residential 1 +) and Advanced Option II (Small Business) Options; and 5) make various textual changes.

D-738 - LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECO CORP. -- This filing will introduce Simply Guaranteed Plus (Voice and Data Service) and make textual changes to Toll-Free Service Guarantee.

D-740 - BRITTAN COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION -- Prepaid Phone Cards are fixed at 50 cents per minute usage, eliminating a sliding usage rate per minute based on denomination. Also, Directory Assistance is rated at 60 cents per call, in replacement of unconfirmed 75 cents per call as previously requested.

D-741 - COMDATA TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES, INC. -- This filing reduces the Intrastate Directory Assistance charge per Commission instructions.

D-744 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing will reissue Travel Card and make product changes to Premier Advantage, Pinnacle, Aspect, and Destiny services.

D-745 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing will reduce the current single line business rate for Rate Group 7 customers. The monthly charge for key line service in all exchanges will also be reduced and restructured.

D-746 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH, and

D-751 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH,

D-752 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED -- These filings will restructure Digital ISDN Single Line Service. Business and residential customers will now be offered a flat rate option and a 400 hour block of time option. Existing Digital ISDN Single Line customers will be grandfathered.

D-755 - OAKMAN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- Will offer Advanced Calling Service at monthly rates from $3 to $7.50, with no activation or recurring charges. These optional services include Call Rejection, Call Return, Call Forwarding, Priority Ringing, Repeat Dialing, Special Call Acceptance, Caller ID and Call Trace. Subscription to more than one option avails the customer of escalated discounts.

D-762 - LONG DISTANCE WHOLESALE CLUB -- This filing increases the rates for the Residential Calling Program, adds IntraLATA rates for the GTE Areas, and adds a new service named 10297 Flat Rate Residential Program. The 10297 Flat Rate Residential Program is used in conjunction with the interstate service option and is billed in one minute increments at 14 cents per minute.

DOCKET U-3766 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and PRIMECO PERSONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS, L.P. ("PRIMECO") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and PrimeCo Personal Telecommunications, L.P. ("PrimeCo").

DOCKET U-3769 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC., ("BELLSOUTH") and PREFERRED CARRIER SERVICES, INC. -- For approval of the Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Preferred Carrier Services, Inc.

DOCKET 23873 - INTERNATIONAL DISCOUNT TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP. For approval to change company name and make other various changes to tariff.

DOCKET 25933 - TEL-SAVE, INC. -- For approval to add new products and rates and change company name.

D-779 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (ALABAMA) -- The proposed tariff revisions eliminate Centrex Service from the General Subscriber Services Tariff. Revenue Impact: None.

D-750 - TELTRUST COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES, INC. -- This Tariff is submitted to comply with interLATA and intraLATA operator services rate caps.

D-754 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing eliminates operator service calls, including surcharges, from being contributory to or being eligible to receive The Most discounts. Filing increases MTS and Wholesale Communications Service and Resale Solutions Per-Call Payphone service charge. This filing also makes a correction for operator service and FONCARD night/weekend usage rate for the 293+ mileage band.

D-764 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED, d/b/a GTE LONG DISTANCE -- This filing makes minor textual changes and introduces a new promotion.

D-765 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing: 1) makes textual changes to CustomNet Service, 2) introduces a new pricing option for CustomNet, 3) introduces CustomNet Type 1 intraLATA and interLATA Special Access rates, and 4) introduces Type 1 and 2 intraLATA switched access rates.

D-766 - NOS COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing increases by 10 percent rates on all services offered by NOS.

D-767 - FARMERS TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC. -- This filing complies with FCC Docket 96-128, which addresses the deregulation of pay phone equipment. These tariff pages change public telephone, semi-public telephone, and COCOT service to pay station service.

D-770 - CONQUEST OPERATOR SERVICES CORP. -- Adds a new product, Uniworld Prepaid Calling Card. This card is non-mileage, non-time-of-day sensitive, flat-rated at 37 cents the initial minute and 18 cents each additional minute.

D-771 - NORTH AMERICAN TELEPHONE NETWORK, L.L.C. -- Adds new products: Affinity Preferred, Diplomat 1000, Diplomat 2000, Universal 1, Universal 1 Plus, Connect, and Best Rate. These products extend interstate products to intrastate jurisdiction and incur volume-sensitive monthly recurring charges in addition to flat rates.

D-772 - INTERSTATE TELEPHONE COMPANY and

D-774 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -- Detariffs billing and collection rates in favor of contracting these services under its General Subscriber Services Tariff.

D-775 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -- Detariffs billing and collection rates in favor of contracting these services under its Access Services Tariff.

D-776 - CABLE & WIRELESS, INC. -- This filing introduces United Telnet Service, a group of inbound and toll free service offerings with switched and dedicated access available only by United Telnet distribution channel. Minimum monthly usage and/or term commitments may apply. There are several plans available with this service. It also introduces a second term plan feature for Venture, VNS, and Simplicity Services and changes the rates and discounts on several other services.

D-777 - WORLDCOM, INC. -- This filing introduces a new competitive, long distance service "InteleNet." InteleNet offers a full service voice product for single or multi-location customers using switched or dedicated and calling card origination and switched or dedicated toll-free termination. This service offers flat rates for both peak and off-peak usage. Discounts are available for those committing to term and/or specific dollar amounts.

D-778 - LONG DISTANCE WHOLESALE CLUB -- This filing adds a Personal 800 Toll Free Residential Service. All calls are billed to the subscriber in one-minute increments at 20 cents per minute.

D-781 - ONEONTA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing changes local service and construction rates. The local service rates are changed with rate rebalancing procedures adapted by the APSC dated May 23, 1997. Construction rates give the customer an additional $500 credit for construction charges.

D-782 - ONEONTA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing adds Classroom Communications Services to the tariff.

D-783 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC., d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing is a replacement page for D- 751, filed April 18, 1997.

D-784 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC., d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing replaces pages in the original filing D-745.

D-785 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED -- This filing is a replacement page for D-752, filed April 18, 1997.

D-786 - BRINDLEE MOUNTAIN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing makes various rate changes to adhere to Rate Rebalancing. The new rates will be effective July 25, 1997.

D-787 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing introduces Quest Service. Quest is offered as four different types of services, including switched and dedicated access.

D-788 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will clarify the language that addresses the minimum spending for Commercial Dial 1 service and introduce the Guarantee Plan for Advanced Option 2 for Small Business.

D-789 - ALLTEL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing introduces a new residential flat-rate, long-distance offering.

D-791 - AFFINITY NETWORK, INC. -- This filing will increase rates 10 percent for all services.

D-792 - EXCEL TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing will introduce Option A Dial 1 service for residential and small business customers.

D-793 - THRIFTY CALL, INC. -- This filing restructures the intraLATA independent telco service rate structure and time-of-day discounts.

D-794 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing revises 800 Plan P usage charges and introduces a usage discount.

D-795 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED

D-796 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- These filings revise pay phone related service rates in compliance with FCC Order No. 97-805 in CC Docket No. 96-128.

D-797 - ICG TELECOMMUNICATIONS GROUP, INC. -- Adds InterLATA Message Telecommunications Service. Customers may access any interLATA company customer at a flat rate of 95 cents per minute with seconds aggregated at the end of the billing period and converted into minutes.

D-799 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- Add a Prepaid Calling Card and allow customers to share 800/888 numbers through utilization of a Personal Identification Number (PIN). The Prepaid Calling Card is flat-rated at 25 cents per minute.

D-800 - INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP., d/b/a TOTAL COMMUNICATION NETWORK, INC. -- This tariff revision will alter some of the company rate plans and introduce a new calling card plan.

D-801 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC., d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH,

D-802 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- These filings will introduce two new flat rate IntraLATA Calling Plans. These plans offer the same flat rate 24 hours a day.

DOCKET U-3773 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. ("BELLSOUTH") and TELEPORT COMMUNICATIONS GROUP, INC., ("TCG") -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc., ("BellSouth") and Teleport Communications Group, Inc. ("TCG").

DOCKET U-3774 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED & CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. and DIAL CALL, INC. (NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS) -- For approval of the Interconnection Agreement between GTE South, Incorporated & Contel of the South, Inc. and Dial Call, Inc. (Nextel Communications).

DOCKET 25548 - CRYSTAL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- For approval to cancel Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to provide Telephone Toll Resale Service in the state of Alabama.

D-804 - CTN TELEPHONE NETWORK, INC. -- To eliminate Rate Plan C and increase per-minute rates. Also, a Calling Card Plan is instituted at a flat rate of $.28 per minute with a monthly service charge of $1.85.

D-805 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH, INC.,

D-806 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF ALABAMA, INC.,

D-845 - NEW HOPE TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC.,

D-854 - GRACEBA TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- These filings increase local service rates for the second year of rate rebalancing under PSC Dockets 24499, 24472, 24030, and 24896 dated May 23, 1996.

D-809 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing changes language referring to FONCARD services and increases the Casual Caller Service Charge and Sprint Sense Dial peak usage rate.

D-812 - FLORALA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- Increases local service rates $3 for business and $1.40 for residential in accordance with our order of May 23, 1996.

D-813 - TOUCH 1 LONG DISTANCE, INC. and

D-814 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- Offers a new product, Bundled Product. This bundles characteristics of various products. Concurrently, First Touch Product rates have been generally reduced during nights and weekends and increased slightly during peak hours.

D-815 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will implement the 35-cent Public Pay phone Surcharge in compliance with the FCC Report and Order dated September 20, 1996. This surcharge applies to all completed intrastate L.D. calls from public and semi-public pay phones where alternate billing methods are utilized.

D-816 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (Alabama), d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing will expand the Local Calling Plan for the Surfside exchange to include nine additional exchanges. Exchanges include: Anniston, Ashville, Birmingham, Pinson, Sylacauga, Alabaster, Attalla, Jacksonville, and Oneonta.

D-818 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF ALABAMA, INC.,

D-819 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH, INC. -- These filings offer new custom calling feature packages and change concession prices on custom calling features.

D-820 - UNIDIAL, INC. -- Adds Debit Card Service at a flat 60 cents per minute. Concurrently, Direct Dial and Switched Toll Free rates are reduced 25 percent, and committal terms are expanded up to 60 months with escalating discounts.

D-821 - CITIZENS TELECOMMUNICATIONS CO. --Adds Select Calling Plan for business. This allows access via switched or dedicated lines and prescribes various term and volume commitments with escalating discounts.

D-823 - ROANOKE TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing makes various rate changes to adhere to rate rebalancing.

D-824 - NORTH AMERICAN TELEPHONE NETWORK, LLC -- Adds Prepaid Debit Card Service in $6, $11, and $20 face values.

D-825 - SOUTHERNNET INC., d/b/a TELECOM *USA -- Increases Operator Services from $1.90 to $2.25 per call and slightly increases all per minute rates.

D-826 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- These revisions will revise Operator Service rates, add verbiage changes to Commercial Dial 1 Service (rounding procedures), and Grandfather MCI HotelDirect and hospitalityMCI.

D-827 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- These revisions introduce UNIPLAN OneRate Service. This is a bundled product that offers a simple rate structure.

D-828 - TEL-SAVE, INC. -- This Tariff is submitted for the addition of a new product and rates and a change of the company address. The company reduced the rates for schedule A and B and added a Non-Subscriber Calling service. This is a time-of-day and mileage-sensitive switched service for non-subscribers. It is rated in per-minute increments. Also, the company has changed its address to Tel-Save, Inc., 6805 Route 202, New Hope, PA 18938.

D-833 - U.S. WEST LONG DISTANCE INC. -- This filing adds a Directory Assistance Option to the USWLD Travel Card.

D-834 - ALLNET COMMUNICATION SERVICES, INC. (FRONTIER) d/b/a FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES -- This filing introduces a new flat-rated, non-distance sensitive, switched and dedicated, inbound and outbound access service option.

D-835 - WORLDCOM, INC. -- This filing adds a new competitive long distance Home Advantage Easy Plan which offers customers one simple rate for intrastate calls. It also introduces two new promotions, USAdvantage and Home State Saver, that are available to existing small business customers through October 31, 1997.

D-844 - WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC CORPORATION, d/b/a WESTINGHOUSE COMMUNICATIONS -- This filing adds a new residential service and associated calling cards. It also changes the rates for the Westinghouse Promotional Prepaid Calling Card. Westinghouse Commercial Residential Service Plans I through XI are Outbound Long Distance pricing plans for employees of business customers who subscribe to Westinghouse services using switched access to reach the long distance network. The Interstate Plan selected by the customer is the determining factor in the different groups. Westinghouse Residential Affinity and Residential Affinity I & II Services are outbound-only long distance pricing plans for members of Residential Affinity Groups (e.g. a professional association, or non-profit organization). Calling Card services are also available with these plans.

D-851 - TLX COMMUNICATIONS, INC. ("TELAMERICA") -- This filing introduces a new flat rate 1+ and 800/888 product called EveryCall One and EveryCall Two which provides a discount to an end-user when they use a one-year term commitment. These are designed for businesses that utilize in excess of $800 in monthly long distance usage. All calls are billed in tenth of a minute increments.

D-852 - CINCINNATI BELL LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- This filing will introduce Network Plus Service. This is a switched outbound service that allows toll free inbound also.

D-853 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED d/b/a GTE LONG DISTANCE -- This filing makes textual changes and reduces the VIP Toll Free Plus rates.

DOCKET U-3757 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and TEL-LINK, L.L.C. ("TEL-LINK") -- For approval of a renegotiated resale agreement between petitioners.

DOCKET U-3761 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and BELLSOUTH CELLULAR CORPORATION -- For approval of a renegotiated interconnection agreement between petitioners.

DOCKET U-3777 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and GTE South, Incorporated.

DOCKET U-3778 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and AXSYS, INC. ("AXSYS") -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and AXSYS, Inc. ("AXSYS").

DOCKET U-3779 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and AXSYS, INC. ("AXSYS") -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and AXSYS, Inc. ("AXSYS").

DOCKET U-3781 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and SPRINT SPECTRUM, L.P. -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Sprint Spectrum, L.P. ("Sprint").

DOCKET U-3782 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and DIAL TONE, INC. -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Dial Tone, Inc.

DOCKET U-3783 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and STERLING INTERNATIONAL FUNDING, INC. d/b/a RECONEX ("RECONEX") -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Sterling International Funding, Inc. d/b/a Reconex ("Reconex").

U-3784 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and U.S. LONG DISTANCE, INC. ("USLD") -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and U.S. Long Distance, Inc., ("USLD").

DOCKET U-3785 - GTE and CONTEL CELLULAR, INC. -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between GTE and Contel Cellular Inc.

DOCKET U-3786 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and PUBLIC SERVICE CELLULAR, INC. -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Public Service Cellular, Inc.

DOCKET U-3787 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and LOUISIANA UNWIRED, INC. -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Louisiana UnWired, Inc.

DOCKET 25375 - A.B.T.S. INTERNATIONAL CORP., d/b/a INTELNET -- For approval to change the company name to Intelnet Services of North America, Inc. d/b/a Intelnet.

D-867 - GOSHEN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- These fillings increase local service rates for the second year of rate rebalancing under PSC Dockets 24499, 24472, 24030, and 24896 dated May 23, 1996.

D-861 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, L.P. -- This filing increases rates for Sprint Sense FONCARD Option B1 Operator Services and revises rate periods for Sprint Sense FONCARD, and Operator services. Textual changes are also made.

D-879 - WORLDCOM NETWORK SERVICES, INC., d/b/a WILTEL NETWORK SERVICES -- These filings reduce rates in accordance with the Report and Order released on September 20, 1995, in Docket Numbers 24499, 24472, 24030, and 24865 requiring that access costs reductions of local exchange carriers be flowed through to the customers.

D-865 - MILLRY TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing introduces two new advanced custom calling features, Anonymous Call Rejection and Remote Access Call Forward.

D-868 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP. -- This filing will increase the Calling Card surcharge for Credit Card, Basic Calling Plan, and the Weekend Savings Plan Card. The volume discounts for Commercial dial 1 have been revised and the usage threshold for HomeMCI One has been reduced.

D-869 - GTE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing will expand the PIC and IPIC change charge to include the local service provider that resells services.

D-871 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- These filings make various textual and verbiage changes.

D-872 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INC. -- This filing makes several textual changes and introduces a GTE branded Visa and MasterCard Standard Program.

D-873 - NYNEX LONG DISTANCE COMPANY -- This filing makes numerous textual changes, including changing the names of services, and adds a new product and service offerings. The new service offerings are: NYNEX Long Distance Flat Rate Plan For Residence Service, Long Distance Northeast Plan For Residence Service, Long Distance Personal Toll Free For Residence, Long Distance Business Flat Rate Plan, Long Distance Northeast Business Plan, and Long Distance Business Volume Discount Plan.

D-874 - ONEONTA TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing will reduce the intrastate 1+ long distance rates as a result of recent access reductions.

D-875 - U.S. REPUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing adds three new services; Best for Less (SM) One Step Savings Service, Best for Less (SM) Plus/Best for Less (SM) Home Service, and Best for Less (SM) Recognition Service. These are switched access services for both residential and business.

D-876 - MATRIX TELECOM, INC. -- This filing adds two new services to the tariff, Small Business Showcase and Matrix Economizer.

D-877 - CITIZENS TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY -- This filing increases the residential calling card surcharge.

D-881 - DELTACOM, INC. -- These tariff revisions make various textual changes requested by Commission staff.

D-882 - DELTACOM, INC. -- ACCESS FLOW-THROUGH.

D-883 - FLORALA TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing unbundles the coin signaling element for pay-phone service, as ordered by the FCC.

D-885 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing makes a language correction to MCI Family Assist Plan.

D-886 - NEW HOPE TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC. -- This filing increases the returned check charge from $10 to $20.

D-889 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH, INC. -- This filing adds a section for customers who request the same number after having been disconnected for more than three months or request a special number.

D-891 - GTE SOUTH, INC.(ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- These filings will introduce ISDN Primary Rate Interface service. ISDN-PRI establishes interconnection points for end to end digital transmission over single access lines.

D-892 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will introduce College Connect Calling Service. This service allows a customer to establish a communication path between two stations using a uniform dialing plan.

D-894 - ALLTEL ALABAMA, INC. -- This filing is to add Anonymous Call Rejection (ACR) to the Local Exchange Tariff. This allows the subscriber to automatically reject all calls that have been marked anonymous by the calling party.

D-896 - LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECOM CORP. -- This filing will introduce a new program for Simply Guaranteed Plus service. This program deals with commitment levels and volume discounts.

D-900 - SOUTHERNNET, INC. -- This filing increases the Directory Assistance Charge to 60 cents per inquiry.

D-901 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing will revise the terms for Pinnacle services and reduce the rates for Premier Hospitality.

D-902 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing will delete the concurrence with BellSouth for Directory Assistance and Operator Assisted services.

D-903 - GROVE HILL TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This correction is the rate rebalancing filing with an effective date of August 1, 1997.

D-904 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing revises all directory assistance rates per Commission requests and adds clarifying language.

D-905 - AMERITECH COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL, INC. -- This filing revises the language for individual customer contracts.

D-906 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will move the dial station 10-ATT schedule into the regular 1 + section of the Tariff. Some textual changes are also being made.

D-907 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will grandfather EasyReach Service as of August 1, 1997.

D-908 - AT&T COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH CENTRAL STATES, INC. -- This filing will introduce calling card and service charges for Custom/Net Simply Better Service Type 2. AT&T has also added an IntraLATA schedule and made various textual changes to this service option.

D-911 - BRINDLEE MOUNTAIN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing will reduce the rates for Area Calling Service.

D-913 - TEL SAVE, INC. -- This filing includes the reduction of the long distance rates and addition of inbound rates to mirror the AT&T rates.

D-914 - TOUCH 1 LONG DISTANCE, INC.

D-915 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- These filings will introduce First Touch Plus and First Touch Flat services. Directory assistance will also be added to the tariff.

D-916 - DIAL & SAVE OF ALABAMA, INC. d/b/a DIAL & SAVE -- This filing reflects revisions to the Residential Calling Program rates, introduces terms, conditions and rates for ASTA Affinity Association, Prime Business 9.9, and Toll Free Pin services and introduces Premium Travel Card rates for Prime Business Select II service. In addition to the new services, this revision also reduces the directory assistance charge for various service offerings.

D-917 - QWEST COMMUNICATIONS CORP. -- This filing introduces one new product, Program 10056. This program is available to residential customers as well as small and medium businesses. It is a switched service that is available on a presubscribed basis in areas that have equal access facilities.

D-918 - ONE CALL COMMUNICATIONS, INC., d/b/a OPTICOM -- This filing decreases rates for operator services to mirror those of AT&T.

D-919 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED d/b/a GTE LONG DISTANCE -- This filing will introduce three new services, make minor text changes, and change the name of VIP Toll Free Plus to Residential Toll Free.

D-920 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will change the name of Preferred Volume Discounts to Volume Optimizer and revise the discount amount.

D-921 - GULF LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- This filing will introduce a new 800 Call Routing Service (sends 800 calls to a different number by time of day) and add an additional level of usage to Advantage Connection

D-922 - LCI INTERNATIONAL TELECOM CORP. -- This filing will introduce Menu Routing, Campus Talk Options, and free Directory Assistance calls for customers unable to access manual directory assistance due to a physical impairment. Some textual changes will also be made.

D-923 - MARATHON COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing separated the different services by residential or business. It also reduced rates for the different services and revised the bands for the banded rate services.

D-925 - MILLRY TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -This filing gives churches a 25 percent concession from the normal business rate.

DOCKET U-3788 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. ("NEXTEL") -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and NEXTEL Communications, Inc. ("NEXTEL").

DOCKET U-3789 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and AMERICAN METROCOMM CORPORATION ("METROCOMM") -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and American MetroComm Corporation ("MetroComm").

DOCKET U-3790 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and US TELCO, INC. -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and US Telco, Inc.

DOCKET U-3791 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and SOUTHERN PHON-RECONNECK, INC. ("RECONNECK") -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Southern Phon-Reconneck, Inc. ("Reconneck").

DOCKET U-3792 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and NORTH ALABAMA CELLULAR, LLC. -- For approval of Interconnection Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and North Alabama Cellular, LLC.

DOCKET U-3793 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and INTERLINK

TELECOMMUNICATIONS OF FLORIDA, INC. ("INTERLINK") -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Interlink Telecommunications, Inc. and Interlink Telecommunications of Florida, Inc.

DOCKET U-3794 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and ANNOX, INC. -- For approval of Resale Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Annox, Inc.

DOCKET U-3795 - BELLSOUTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. (BELLSOUTH) and POWERTEL, INC. ("POWERTEL") -- For approval of Collocation Agreement between BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. (BellSouth) and Powertel, Inc. ("Powertel").

D-928 - HOPPER TELECOMMUNICATIONS CO. -- This filing increases the returned check charge to $20.

D-929 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing will increase the rates for Call Saver Basic and Extension and for Call Saver and Call Saver Plus feature plans. DeltaCom will also reduce the rates and edit the description for Unity Service.

D-932 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED -- This filing will expand the Local Calling Plans for the Abbeville, Louisville, and Ozark exchanges.

D-933 - DIAL & SAVE OF ALABAMA, INC., d/b/a DIAL & SAVE -- This filing incorporates Partner BFI service for Alternate Channels, Plan F - SURETEL for prepaid Calling Cards service, and surcharge language for calls originated at payphones to recover its costs of payphone compensations as ordered by the FCC in Docket No. 96128.

D-934 - INTERMEDIA COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing makes certain textual changes in the company tariff. This filing modifies certain operator surcharge rates to match recent rate changes implemented by BellSouth Communications, Inc. It adds language to help control fraudulent use of services and block delivery of calls billable to a customer who is unable or unwilling to pay the charges or who requests such calls be blocked. It also corrects time-of-day discount periods.

D-937 - GTE SOUTH, INCORPORATED. -- These filings will allow GTE Savings Plan subscribers to choose a new peak/off-peak calling schedule option.

D-939 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- These filings change the name of selected Smart Call features. (Smart Call to GTE Calling Service, Smart Ring to Distinctive Ring and Call Rejection to Anonymous Call Block)

D-940 - AMERICAN COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES OF MONTGOMERY, INC., AMERICAN COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES OF BIRMINGHAM, INC., AMERICAN COMmunications SERVICES OF MOBILE, INC. -- This filing reduces rates for different services and adds two new CLASS features.

D-941 - THE FURST GROUP INC. -- This filing introduces a new service FiberWats Telecommunications Service, corrects an error in the company tariff, changes rates, and makes corrections to tariff language.

D-946 - BUTLER TELEPHONE COMPANY -- These filings remove service order charges for Custom Calling and Toll Restriction services.

D-943 - OAKMAN TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing removes service order charges for Custom Calling and Toll Restriction services. This filing will also break out Custom Calling Services from the Systems Plus Service tariff. The Toll Deny feature will be deleted.

D-947 - BUDGET CALL LONG DISTANCE, INC. -- This filing will revise Travel Card Service rates.

D-949 - ROANOKE TELEPHONE COMPANY, INC. -- This filing makes a correction to the rate rebalancing filing submitted on June 9, 1997.

D-950 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, L.P., d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing adjusts rates, adds services, adds surcharges, and makes textual changes. Some rates are increased and some are decreased. Foncard Services will have a surcharge, and textual changes will be made.

D-968 - TOUCH 1 COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- These filings make minor textual changes.

D-952 - BLOUNTSVILLE TELEPHONE CO. -- This filing adds Concession Services for qualified subscribers to the tariff.

D-953 - L.D. SERVICES, INC. -- This filing revises the rates for the LCR Program. It is a rate increase of one cent per minute for all mileage increments.

D-954 - INTELNET SERVICES OF NORTH AMERICA, INC. -- This filing contains textual changes requested by Commission staff. D-955 - BUSINESS TELECOM, INC., d/b/a BTI -- This filing changes various rates, adds new services, and makes textual changes to the tariff.

D-956 - SPRINT COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, L.P. d/b/a SPRINT -- This filing decreases the wholesale and resale payphone service charges.

D-958 - THRIFTY CALL, INC. -- This filing will reduce interLATA rates.

D-959 - COMMONWEALTH LONG DISTANCE COMPANY - This filing will change the company name from Commonwealth Long Distance to RCN Long Distance Company.

D-960 - GULF TELEPHONE COMPANY -- This filing replaces all the small exchange boundary maps.

D-962 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- These filings comply with the provisions of the GTE/AT&T Arbitration Order concerning the removal of restrictions on resale from the tariff.

D-963 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION (MCI) -- This filing will introduce MASTERS 97 (Dial 1 service for institutions that act as MCI agents) and revise the off-site rates and calling card surcharge for MCI Masters.

D-964 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED, d/b/a GTE LONG DISTANCE -- This filing will reduce the rates and revise the discounts for the GTE Easy Savings Plan for Business.

D-965 - GTE CARD SERVICES, INCORPORATED d/b/a GTE LONG DISTANCE -- This filing will introduce GTE Total Call Service. This is a combination of services, all flat-rated.

D-966 - ALLTEL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing will: 1) introduce a new residential flat rate service, 2) introduce Pre-Paid Card Service, 3) increase the Operator-Assisted rates, 4) decrease Business One rates, 5) make language changes, and 6) change calling card rates.

D-967 - J D SERVICES, INC. -- This filing will revise and introduce new debit cards.

D-969 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing will add additional service exchanges and add a surcharge for foreign and designer directory listings.

D-970 - INTERMEDIA COMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing eliminates several older options and adds new options.

D-971 - CONTEL OF THE SOUTH, INC. (ALABAMA) d/b/a GTE SYSTEMS OF THE SOUTH -- This filing will expand the PIC and IntraLATA Carrier (IPEC) change charge to include local service providers that resell services.

D-978 - EXCEL TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. -- This filing makes numerous text changes and revises the entire tariff for clarification purposes. There are no changes in rates or services.

D-979 - STERLING INTERNATIONAL FUNDING, INC. -- This filing adjusts rates for Caller ID and Reconnection charges.

D-981 - NEW HOPE TELEPHONE COOPERATIVE, INC. -- This filing offers Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) to its customers. ISDN is a set of standards for end-to-end digital voice and data transmission over the public switched network.

D-983 - FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS OF THE SOUTH, INC. -- These filings add a new feature called Toll Control With PIN.

D-985 - MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION -- This filing will reduce the intraLATA dial 1 rate for homeMCI One.

D-986 - DELTACOM, INC. -- This filing will add verbiage to the rules and regulations concerning service and line connection charges. It will also introduce Customized Code Restrictions and a directory listings option.

The number of motor carriers under our regulation continues to increase because of deregulation, but the associated Single State Registration System (SSRS) revenues continue to decrease proportionately subsequent to the verbiage in the law that allows motor carriers to voluntarily provide payment for the number of vehicles operating in the state. Due to budgetary cuts, no personnel have been available to conduct audits this past year, resulting in lesser amounts of voluntary payments.

An economic comparison of how two leading modes of transportation performed in the previous years ending on the calendar year are as follows:

(ALABAMA COMMERCE ONLY)

* Figures are reported for the calendar year ending December 31.

The section investigates accidents involving motor carriers under Commission jurisdiction and makes recommendations to prevent recurrence. When such carriers are found to be operating without proper authority, or are conducting their operations in violation of established rules and regulations, steps are taken to acquire compliance. If conditions warrant, violators are arrested and prosecuted in the proper court.

From October 1996 through September 1997, records indicate a total of 2,438 violations found. Officers issued 909 citations and 451 warning tickets for various violations. Enforcement officers conducted 486 vehicle safety inspections (physically checked vehicles) and checked a total of 9,705 vehicles. Officers conducted 130 investigations pertaining to illegal operations and violations of rules and regulations. A total of 95 drivers and 67 vehicles were placed out of service.

First, it registers for-hire commercial intrastate brokers, air carriers, and motor carriers granted authority by the Commission. It registers motor carriers from the United States and Canada that have been granted authority by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) or those exempt from federal regulation.

Second, it requires all motor or air carriers of passengers or property to file and maintain proof of financial responsibility. Such carriers file forms of liability insurance, cargo insurance, bonds, self- insurance, and bonds for handling of collect-on- delivery shipments.

Third, it issues motor carrier vehicle identification stamps, decals, numbers, trip permits, and receipts. It also collects, accounts for and deposits the monies for maintaining journals, ledgers, receipts and various other records and reports of monies received and deposited. It audits motor carrier records to verify the correct number of receipts has been purchased.

This section receives, processes and approves applications for the registration of such carriers operating in interstate commerce into and through Alabama. This section is responsible for the issuance of Commission orders of registration when, after review, it is found all the requirements of law are met. It also revokes or reinstates such carriers' authority when applicable, according to provisions set out in statutes, rules and regulations. It works with other state and federal agencies who also regulate motor carriers.

The section ensures carriers have insurance on file before they can legally operate. It also issues orders of revocation for failure to maintain proof of financial responsibility and orders reinstatement after proof has been received as prescribed by law.

Subsequent to the above-mentioned regulations of motor carriers, this section is called upon to provide information to the general public, permitting services, lawyers, insurance companies, transportation companies and other state and federal agencies concerning regulatory matters.

Finally, this section requires motor and rail carriers to file annual reports of their operations.

A tabulation of the section's activities is as follows:

This section also investigates railroad related accidents, including those at highway grade crossings, and derailments to determine the cause and to recommend action to prevent recurrence. Federally-certified inspectors are called upon by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the National Transportation Safety Board to assist in accident determination and recommendations. The section also handles complaints from railroads, railway employees, labor unions, other governmental agencies and the public in all matters relating to railway safety.

Members of the Railway Safety Section, as well as members of the Enforcement section, participate in Operation Lifesaver. Operation Lifesaver is a program in which staff members make grade crossing safety presentations to the general public and selected personnel that may be subject, or at risk, when operating vehicles over highway/railroad grade crossings.

A tabulation of the activities of this section follows:

The section maintains a complete file of all tariffs setting forth rates, fares, charges, classification, rules and regulations for intrastate transportation companies. Staff members check each re-issue and supplement filed to ensure compliance with the Commission's rules and regulations. They also analyze tariff changes to determine the effect.

The revised tariffs and supplements are either permitted to become effective on the proposed effective date, or they are suspended and investigated. When the Commission institutes a formal investigation, public hearings are held. When the record is complete, the examiner and other members of the staff study and analyze the evidence of record and make recom-mendations to the Commission. After the Commission makes its decision, an order is drafted and written for the Commissioners' signatures.

The section compiles data from motor carriers and tariff publishing bureaus for use in proceedings before the Commission and the ICC, and for the purpose of supplying information requested by other staff members and other state or federal agencies. The data is also compiled so that the Commission can track the overall financial condition of the industry.

W ILEY TUNSTALL

The Commission was charged with the regulation of utilities providing electricity, gas, water, and steam; companies operating streets or inter-urban railways, as well as rail and communication companies being regulated by the former Railroad Commission. The new Commission's regulation of utilities included approving the sale or lease of utility property or franchises. The Commission was composed of three elected members -- a president and two associate commissioners.

The Commission's authority was broadened in 1920 when the Legislature made it responsible for utility rates.

As Alabama's highway system developed in the late 1920s, the operation of trucks and buses as common carriers increased. In 1927, the Legislature placed all motor transportation companies operating as common carriers of freight or passengers over regular routes on Alabama highways under the Commission's regulatory authority. The Legislature broadened the Commission's authority over transportation companies in 1931 and 1932 by including motor carriers not operating over regular routes. Air carriers were included in 1945.

All natural gas transmission and distribution systems were placed under the Commission's jurisdiction for safety purposes in 1968, adopting the Minimum Safety Standards outlined in the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act.

In 1971, the Commission's authority over motor carriers was broadened. Transportation enforcement officers were empowered to enforce the rules and regulations of the Commission. In 1971, radio common carriers were placed under the Commission's authority. The Commission's safety jurisdiction was extended to include railroad tracks and equipment in 1976 under the State Participation Program of the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970.

In 1977, the Legislature empowered the Attorney General's office to represent consumers and the State in all Commission proceedings.

In recent years, two very important laws were passed by the United States Congress, both of which greatly influenced state regulatory agencies.

The Telecommunications Act of 1996 provided a framework for opening the nation to competition for local telephone service, a federal action that again provided for pre-emption of rules of state regulatory agencies. The Act left many of the details to be worked out by federal and state regulators.

JIM FOLSOM JR.