ME. PUC PUTS STATE-SUBSIDIZED PAYPHONES IN 42 SITES

摘要

Me. is one of the first states to address the problem of disappearing payphones. The Me. PUC chose 42 sites around the state for state-subsidized public interest payphones. The phones are going into locations with substantial low-income populations, low landline penetration rates or spotty wireless service. Locations are listed on the PUC website. The phones will provide free local calls, plus 911 and interexchange access. The PUC acted under a 2005 state law that provided a $50,000 state fund to subsidize payphones in areas where they're vital to public health and safety but not profitable enough for business. The PUC is seeking bids to supply the payphone service. The first phones are expected to go into service this year.