On Wednesday, July 12, 2006, our PSC will act on a proposed merger creating the largest communication giant in the  nation.

To: La. Public Service Commission 

Jimmy Field, Chairman
Jack A. “Jay” Blossman, Vice Chairman
C. Dale Sittig, Commissioner
Foster L. Campbell, Commissioner
Lambert C. Boissiere, Commissioner
07-08-06
 
Dear Commissioners,
 
I’m writing in regards to the upcoming proposed merger of AT&T/BellSouth.  I am a public accountant and generally a supporter of good business.  While defining what is good business is sometimes a very subjective test, there are basic social and economic criteria that can be used in measuring benefits and detriments to the quality of life certain business decisions will have on a community or state. 
 
While representing the public interest in the current instance is the ultimate responsibility of the Public Service Commission, supporting public scrutiny of the proposed merger is a democratic process I trust you will insist ensue.  This democratic process, including public input, apparently is objectionable to AT&T.  I understand that AT&T and BellSouth allege that our PSC does not have the authority to examine this merger, let alone scrutinize its implementation. 
 
My concern and interest regarding this merger is that Louisiana citizens don’t become the victims of corporate greed.  I fear the creation of a communications monopoly that may result in greater efficiency for AT&T and Bell south will cost consumers higher rates for both cellular and land based phones.  AT&T is projecting it will save  $14 billion dollars but is hush about a savings to consumers. 
 
I’m also concerned about the 10,000 job loss that AT&T has already projected as a result of the proposed merger.  Please recall, in the early stages of this merger, BellSouth executives said that killing competition would cost residential customers as much as 16 billion dollars a year.  This I find very alarming and would like to know what safeguards are in place to protect consumer interests. 
 
As elected Public Service Commissioners you enjoy the trust and confidence of the electorate.  We rely on you to ensure that unreasonable practices by AT&T and BellSouth are not imposed on consumers.  The unfair practices I speak of include increased phone rates, loss of jobs for Louisiana workers and the omission of public input concerning this merger. 
 
I trust you will engage AT&T and BellSouth in a comprehensive and open review of  this merger and the impact it will have on the people of our state (Louisiana).
 
Sincerely,     

Fred Prejean

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