1. (a) The commission may require that each local exchange area have access to local and interexchange telecommunications service, except as otherwise provided by this section.

2. (b) The commission shall allow a telecommunications utility to discontinue service to a local exchange area if:

   1. (1) comparable service is available in the area; and
   2. (2) discontinuing the service is not contrary to the public interest.

3. (c) This section does not authorize the commission to require a telecommunications utility to initiate service to a local exchange area to which the telecommunications utility:

   1. (1) did not provide service during the preceding 12-month period; and
   2. (2) has not provided service previously for a cumulative period of at least one year.

Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 166, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.