Call Termination Issues

Download our White Paper on Call Termination

Thank you for contacting Golden West regarding the problems you are experiencing with your incoming long distance calls. The troubles you described
are consistent with those being reported by rural communities in at least 35 states. We understand that these issues are not only inconvenient, but can also impact
the physical and financial well-being of our customers.  

According to industry analysts, there could be a number of possible reasons why customers in rural areas are experiencing problems with incoming long distance calls. One potential cause is the use of least-cost routers (LCR) by the carriers originating these calls in an effort to reduce their expenses associated with using the rural telecommunications provider’s network. While utilizing a LCR may help
the originating carriers bottom-line, this method of routing oftentimes prevents calls
from connecting in rural areas. Another cause may be voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) services like Vonage,
Skype and Magic Jack who, in some cases, actually advertise that they do not terminate calls in all areas.

Golden West, and other companies that serve rural America, are working with state and federal officials, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to develop a solution that halts this practice of discriminating against rural customers. On February 6, 2012, the FCC issued a declaratory ruling addressing these issues and reminding carriers
of their obligations to terminate calls to rural areas. However, it is apparent that carriers continue to undermine their responsibilities. July 2012 saw among the highest number of trouble reports related to this issue that Golden West has received in a single month.

For more information on how to report a call termination issue to the FCC, visit the following websites:

http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/problems-long-distance-or-wireless-calling-rural-areas#XX3
http://transition.fcc.gov/eb/rcc/RCC_Form2000B.html

Download our White Paper for more information that illustrates how widespread this problem has become and that the rural telecommunications industry is taking whatever action within its power to try and stop the practice. Please take time to review the information. It is important to understand that you are not alone as you continue to endure this problem.
 
Golden West will continue to work diligently to ensure that our customers receive the service they deserve.
Thank you for your understanding and please know that we value you as a customer.

Sincerely,

Denny Law, General Manager
Golden West Telecommunications