[§269-43]  Carriers of last resort. (a)  The commission may define and designate local exchange service areas wherethe commission has determined that providing universal service funds to asingle provider will be the most appropriate way to ensure service for theseareas.

(b)  The commission shall determine the levelof service that is appropriate for each designated local exchange service areaand shall invite telecommunications providers to bid for a level of servicethat is appropriate.  The successful bidder shall be designated the carrier oflast resort for the designated local exchange service area for a period of timeand upon conditions set by the commission.  In determining the successfulbidder, the commission shall take into consideration the level of service to beprovided, the investment commitment, and the length of the agreement, inaddition to the other qualifications of the bidder.

(c)  The universal service fund shall alsoprovide service drops and basic service at discounted rates to publicinstitutions, as stated in section 269-41.

(d)  The commission shall adopt rules pursuantto chapter 91 to carry out the provisions of this section. [L 1995, c 225, ptof §2]