Attorney General's News Release

April 14, 1995

Nixon files motion opposing overlaying area code

Jefferson City, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon has filed a motion with the Missouri Public Service Commission in opposition to a plan by Southwestern Bell that would overlay a new telephone area code within the existing 314 area code.

Nixon filed an application to intervene with the PSC, which has jurisdiction over the plan. The PSC will consider Bell's recommendation for addressing the depletion of telephone numbers in the 314 area by introducing an overlay area code in June 1996.

Nixon said state government, a major customer of Southwestern Bell, would be significantly impacted by any changes.

“Having multiple area codes within state agencies might require an expensive retooling of our present phone system,” Nixon said. “It could very well lead to a situation where someone would have to dial 10 numbers just to reach the person in the next office.

“Just as significantly, it might impair the ability of citizens to communicate with their government. It is vital that the citizens of Missouri easily be able to reach the people who work for them in Jefferson City and other cities around the state.”

Nixon also said he supports the suggestion by the Office of Public Counsel that a public comment period be provided so questions regarding implementation and cost of the plan may be addressed.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818