140313_CusterETC.pdf

Idaho Public Utilities Commission
Case No. CTB-T-14-01, Order No. 32989
March 13, 2014
Contact: Gene Fadness [phone]

Custer Telephone seeks ETC status
BOISE -- The Idaho Public Utilities Commission is taking comment through March 25 on an
application by Custer Telephone Broadband Services LLC to be declared an eligible
telecommunications carrier (ETC) in the Salmon area and be allowed to offer “Lifeline” low-
income support to its customers.
Custer Telephone Broadband is a subsidiary of Challis-based Custer Telephone Cooperative and
since 2011 has provided basic local exchange and long-distance service in the Salmon area. ETC
status would permit Custer Telephone Broadband to receive low-income support from the
federal Universal Service Fund.
Custer Telephone Broadband says the ETC is in the public interest because it will promote
competition in the area and enable it to offer Lifeline to qualifying customers. The Salmon area
is also served by CenturyTel of Idaho, doing business as CenturyLink.
Companies seeking ETC status must meet several requirements established by the commission
including access to E-911 emergency services, directory service, compliance with consumer
protection and service quality standards and provide Lifeline services to qualifying customers.
Lifeline is funded through the federal Universal Service Fund. Customers who qualify for
Lifeline may receive a federal discount of $9.25 per month.

Comments are accepted via e-mail through March 25 by accessing the commission’s homepage
at www.puc.idaho.gov and clicking on "Case Comment Form,” under the “Telecom” heading.
Fill in the case number (CTB-T-14-01) and enter your comments. Comments can also be mailed
to P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0074 or faxed to [phone].
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