Number Portability Obligations Extend to VoIP Providers

Super Technologies, Inc. attempts to gather information that appears to be relevant to the 7000+ Internet Telephony Service Providers using its www.didx.net global phone number exchange (DIDXchange)and makes it available for study and discussion on this blog. Super Technologies, Inc. is not stating that it is an expert in these topics of law, finance, etc. The latest news from the FCC...

On Nov. 8, 2007, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) released an order extending number portability obligations to interconnected VoIP providers and carriers that support VoIP providers.

What is number portability? It is a service that makes it possible for consumers to keep their existing landline and cellular telephone number when changing service providers in a specific area. As defined in the Telecommunications Act of 1996, the ability of telecommunications service users to retain, at the same location, existing telephone numbers without impairment of quality, reliability, or convenience when switching from one telecommunications carrier to another.

In addition, the FCC is extending to VoIP providers the requirement to contribute to NANPA, for costs related to numbering administration (this is part of the Form 499A). What is NANPA? The North American Numbering Plan Administrator is responsible for day to day administration, assignment and management of area codes in the United States. NeuStar, Inc. is responsible for the administration of the North American Numbering Plan. (Not be confused with "nanpa" a Japanese word for flirting among young people.)

In addition, the FCC stated again that VoIP providers that are not also licensed telecom providers are not entitled to directly access NANPA numbering resources.

The Commission noted that carriers cannot undertake activities that would abort or delay the porting process.

The Commission instituted a rulemaking proceeding to determine whether other numbering obligations should be extended to VoIP. The Order is effective 30 days after publication in the Federal Register.

The Commission also released a document proposing to extend hearing aid compatibility obligations to VoIP providers. Read more to find out who would benefit. http://coataccess.civicspaceondemand.org/node/15