Verizon files for long-distance in Maine

Verizon Communications filed for approval with the Federal Communications Commission to offer long-distance phone service in the state of Maine, the company announced Thursday. As part of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Baby Bell phone companies that offer local service must prove they have opened their local networks to competitors to enter the long-distance market. The FCC has 90 days to review the application and will receive input from the Maine Public Utilities Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice before making a final decision. Verizon has already received long-distance approval in New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts, and has also filed in Vermont. But the company withdrew its application in New Jersey this week because of concerns raised over a charge the company bills other carriers.