Reciprocal compensation debate opened by RBOCS

Bell regional holding companies (BROC) are being pressured to open themselves to competition as the Republican-dominated Congress begins to discuss the deregulation of the industry. The most sensitive issue is the call for BROCs to pay for calls that are coursed through networks owned by other entities. While Nynex has acceded to the proposal by signing a contract with MFS Communications on a reciprocal compensation scheme, other companies have resisted. U S WEST, among others, has recommended the use of a flat rate that has access switched charges as its basis instead of the proposed compensation scheme.
With the new Republican-controlled Congress apparently ready to tackle telecom deregulation soon, it may become politically important for the RBOCs to begin opening their networks to potential competitors. But getting [...]