September 16, 2002

The Michigan Public Service Commission today granted MCImetro Access Transmission Services, Inc. authority to alter its business rates for certain basic local telephone services.  Today’s order authorizes MCImetro to increase its basic local exchange rates for business customers as follows:  1) its Business Local Line Monthly Recurring Charge, Per Minute/Per Call Option from $10.75 to $13.50; 2) its Business Local Trunk Monthly Recurring Charge, Per Minute/Per Call Option from $10.75 to $13.50, and 3) its Business Per Call Rate from $0.08 to $0.09.  MCImetro filed its June 24, 2002 application to adjust its rates under provisions of the Michigan Telecommunications Act.

Although MCImetro advised each business customer that might be subject to the rate increases about the opportunity to comment on the proposed increases, the Commission received no comments from business customers on the proposed changes.  The Commission concurred with the MPSC staff assessment that the proposed increases are just and reasonable and permitted under the MTA.  MPSC staff found that the proposed rates are generally less than or equal to those charged by Ameritech Michigan and thus provide a competitive alternative to the dominant carrier’s product and price. 

MCImetro is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

The MPSC is an agency within the Department of Consumer and Industry Services.

Case No. U-13456