Verizon long-distance service OK’d

BOSTON — The Federal Communications Commission has approved addition of long-distance
telephone service by Verizon Communications to its Massachusetts customers. Despite
opposition from some competitors and one of its own members, the FCC decided that
Verizon had promoted local competition adequately in the state. Verizon withdrew
an earlier petition to add long-distance to its services last December in the
face of intense opposition and the expectation that the FCC would reject the petition.
Introduction of the service is expected as early as this week. The company is
moving ahead with its plans to expand its long-distance service throughout its
service region. The company also plans to expand the service throughout New England
this year, starting first with Rhode Island, a company spokesman said.