Edited by Thane Peterson

On Jan. 2, Ameritech became the first of the Baby Bell local telephone companies to ask for permission to provide long-distance service in its local territory. Ameritech filed with the Federal Communications Commission to provide long-distance service in Michigan. Under the massive telecommunications bill passed last year, local phone companies can begin providing long-distance service to their customers once the companies face meaningful competition in the local phone business.

Not surprisingly, long-distance competitors are contending that Ameritech's request is premature. MCI put out a statement arguing that new players in Ameritech's local market still face "formidable barriers," and it asked the FCC to reject the request. The commission must decide on the matter in 90 days after getting input from Michigan state regulators and the Justice Dept.

By Amy Barrett in Washington