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OCTOBER 5, 2000

Southwestern Bell has been turning down low-income residents of Oklahoma for the federal cheap phones program, apparently because many operators are unaware of the initiative.

As many as 200,000 in the state can qualify for the Lifeline program. The program offers cheap phone service for low-income customers and a recent order by the Federal Communications Commission is aimed at bringing more reservation or tribal residents into the program.

But people have been calling The Daily Oklahoman to tell them Southwestern operators are giving them the run around. A company spokesperson said SBC regrets any inconveniences.

The company had earlier asked the FCC to reconsider its definition of "former reservation." But the FCC rejected their request, which would have delayed implementation of the phones program.

Get the Story:
Southwestern Bell unprepared for $1 phone service (The Daily Oklahoman 10/5)

Relevant Links:
The FCC - www.fcc.gov

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