AUGUSTA — The Maine Public Utilities Commission this week approved the latest in a series of long-distance rate reductions stemming from Maine’s Access Parity law. This law stated that by May 30, 1999, Maine’s in-state access rates would be equal to or less than those paid for out-of-state calls. Thus, on May 30, 1999, it should no longer cost someone in Bangor more to call Portland, Maine, than it costs to call Portland, Oregon.

On May 30 of this year, Bell Atlantic reduced its in-state long-distance access by about one-third. Rates for peak daytime access were reduced by up to 50 percent.

A key aspect of the Access Parity law charged the commission with ensuring that the combination of access reductions and effective competition brings lower toll rates for Maine’s consumers. In approving several rate reductions Monday afternoon, Maine PUC chairman Tom Welch said, “Historically, our high access rates have impeded reductions in long-distance rates, but these access rates have come down considerably and will continue to do so. I expect long-distance rates to continue to do likewise, and if the long-distance carriers don’t reduce their rates due to competition, there is a good chance that the commission will do so through regulation.”