PUC Delays Hearing on Internet Calls

California regulators have postponed until June 3 a discussion of whether calls to Internet service providers are local or long-distance connections--a determination that could preserve or eliminate so-called reciprocal payments between phone companies. Critics fear that eliminating the payments will hurt competitors and ultimately push monthly prices higher for Internet users. The debate stems from a case involving Pacific Bell and rival Pac-West Telecomm of Stockton, but could set a precedent throughout the state. The California Public Utilities Commission had planned to decide the matter today, but nearly all the items on the PUC’s agenda had to be postponed because one of the three commissioners is unavailable. The PUC, normally a five-person panel, cannot decide matters with just two commissioners present. Two positions remain vacant, awaiting appointments by Gov. Gray Davis.