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Last updated on Friday, May 17, 2013
(UNDATED) - The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) is recommending the all-services overlay option for implementing a new telephone area code throughout southern and south-central Indiana.
A new area code will be needed because of the dwindling number supply for the 812 area code, which has remained largely unchanged since 1947. The 812 area code is projected to exhaust its number supply in 2015.
If the new area code is implemented with an overlay, consumers throughout the 812 area will keep their existing phone numbers, while the new code will be used for new phones and services beginning in late 2014 or 2015.
Overlays either have been or are being implemented in 24 states including all four that border Indiana. With an overlay, consumers must use ten-digit dialing (area code + local number) for local calls. But local calling areas do not change, and calls that are local before a new area code is added remain local afterward.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) is considering whether to use an overlay or a geographic split to implement a new code for the 812 area, and is expected make its decision by the end of 2013. After a decision is made, the new area code will be phased in with the transition period lasting approximately one year.
For more information visit the OUCC's website at www.in.gov/oucc/2718.htm.
The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) represents Indiana consumer interests before state and federal bodies that regulate utilities. As a state agency, the OUCC's mission is to represent all Indiana consumers to ensure quality, reliable utility services at the most reasonable prices possible through dedicated advocacy, consumer education, and creative problem solving.
Visit us at www.IN.gov/OUCC, www.twitter.com/IndianaOUCC, or www.facebook.com/IndianaOUCC.
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