315 Area Code Relief

PSC Seeks Public Comment - The New York State Public Service Commission is seeking public comment on the Recommended Decision of an administrative law judge regarding area code relief in the 315 region.  The Commission may approve, reject or modify the Recommended Decision when it makes its final determination in the 315 area code proceeding.

Recommended Decision - On November 26, 2008, Administrative Law Judge Howard Jack issued a Recommended Decision (RD) in the 315 Area Code proceeding.   The Judge has recommended that the Commission implement an overlay, rather than any of three geographic splits that were under consideration in the case (see case background for more information on the proceeding and the proposed relief options). 

What is an overlay?  An overlay is when a new area code is superimposed on the existing region with the result of two area codes serving the same region.

How does it work?  With an overlay, existing customers would retain their current telephone numbers, including area code, while new customers would be issued telephone numbers with a new area code.  Once an overlay is introduced, everyone in the region will be required to use the full 11-digit number (1+area code+7 digit number) when making calls. 

Why was this option recommended?  The RD expresses the view that the overlay is the more fair and equitable option.  A geographic split would impose almost all the burden of area code relief on consumers in the zone receiving the new code, while users in the zone retaining the 315 code would bear little burden.

How to Comment-  Comments regarding the Recommended Decision can be sent to the Commission using options listed below.  Comments should refer to "Case 07-C-1486 - 315 Area Code."

Mail to: Jaclyn A. Brilling, Secretary, New York State Public Service Commission, Three Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12223-1350

Call our toll-free Opinion Line:  Dial 1-800-335-2120, select English or Spanish, and then press "1" to leave your comment. 

Submit via the Internet:  Fill out our "PSC Comment Form" and submit it electronically using the instructions provided.

Comments regarding the administrative law judge's Recommended Decision received before close of business on December 31, 2008 will be placed in the public case file and made available for public inspection in the Commission's Central Files, 14th Floor, Three Empire State Plaza, Albany.