UTILITIES-TELEPHONE LINES

Amends the Public Utilities Act. In a provision concerning market regulation for competitive retail services, makes changes to the definition of "basic local exchange service". Provides that "basic local exchange service" means residential and business lines used for local exchange telecommunications service (rather than either a stand-alone residence network access line and per-call usage or, for any geographic area in which such stand-alone service is not offered, a stand-alone flat rate residence network access line for which local calls are not charged for frequency or duration). Retains within the definition that Extended Area Service shall be included in basic local exchange service. Provides that an Electing Provider shall restore basic local exchange service for the customer within 24 (rather than 30) hours after receiving notice that the customer is out of service. Provides that if an Electing Provider fails to repair an out-of-service condition for basic local exchange service within 24 (rather than 30) hours, the Electing Provider shall provide a credit to the customer. Provides that if the service disruption is for more than 24 (rather than 30) hours, but not more than 48 hours, the credit must be equal to a pro-rata portion of the monthly recurring charges for all basic local exchange services disrupted. Makes related changes to provisions requiring Electing Providers to make quarterly reports to the Illinois Commerce Commission.