Directing the department of energy to begin planning for the introduction of an additional overlay area code.
The introduction of an overlay area code is expected to have a significant impact on the telecommunications landscape in New Hampshire. By creating additional area codes in the existing geographic area, the bill aims to alleviate future numbering shortages, which could otherwise hinder telecommunication services. The planning phase will involve coordination with the North American Numbering Plan administrators, which will ensure a smooth implementation process.
House Bill 708 aims to direct the New Hampshire Department of Energy to begin planning for the introduction of an additional overlay area code. This change is necessary due to the increasing demand for telephone numbers in the state, prompting the need for additional area codes to ensure sufficient numbering resources are available. The bill defines terms related to area codes, including 'overlay area codes', which allows for new area codes in the same geographic region without requiring residents to change their existing phone numbers.
While the bill seeks to address numbering issues effectively, there could be points of contention regarding how the implementation is managed and communicated to the public. Stakeholders may express concerns about the potential confusion that might arise from having multiple area codes within the same region. However, since the bill stipulates that no existing phone numbers will need to change, it aims to mitigate any potential backlash from residents wary of the changes.
The fiscal impact of the bill is currently undetermined as the Office of Legislative Budget Assistant has not yet received necessary information from the Department of Energy. This aspect may become a critical discussion point as the bill progresses through the legislative process, particularly concerning budget allocation for the implementation of the new area code.