R17-04  INTERCONNECTION

(a)  Interconnection arrangements should make available the features, functions, interface points and other service elements on an unbundled basis required by a requesting CLP to provide quality services. The Commission may, on petition by any interconnecting party, determine the reasonableness of any interconnection request.

(b)  Interconnection arrangements should apply equally and on a nondiscriminatory basis to all CLPs.

(c)  Interconnection arrangements must be made available pursuant to a bona fide written request. No refusal or unreasonable delay by any LEC to another carrier will be allowed.

(d)  Interconnection agreements are to be negotiated in good faith. Such agreements shall be filed for approval as soon as practicable but in no event later than 30 days from the date of conclusion of negotiations. Parties may operate on an interim basis under a negotiated interconnection agreement which has been filed with the Commission and which is publicly available as a public record pending Commission action on the filing. Interim operations under a negotiated interconnection agreement shall begin no earlier than the date upon which the agreement is filed with the Commission and shall be undertaken, at the risk of the parties, subject to the right of the Commission to approve or disapprove the agreement.

(e)  In the event the parties are unable to agree within 90 days of a bona fide request, either party may petition the Commission for a determination of the appropriate rates and terms for interconnection.

(f)  Unbundled functional elements of a LEC's network that are made available throughout interconnection agreements should also be made available on an individual tariffed basis.

(NCUC Docket No. P-100, Sub 133, 7/19/95; 2/23/96; 6/18/96; 9/21/00.)