[OPLINLIST] E-Rate SOMACS contract and riders

[Stephen Hedges]

As the E-Rate application deadline approaches (March 24), I am getting 
more and more inquiries concerning the status of the SOMACS contract 
from libraries that purchase T1 lines under that contract between the 
state and AT&T.

Back on February 1, I wrote:
"It's our understanding that the E-Rate riders will be required again 
when the SOMACS contract is extended for another two years. Currently, 
AT&T and the state have not agreed on the terms of the SOMACS extension, 
so there is no contract for the E-Rate rider to "ride" on at this point."

This is still the current situation.

I also said, back on February 1, that I thought the contract extension 
would be completed in a couple of weeks. That obviously hasn't happened, 
but I am in frequent contact with the negotiating parties and have made 
sure everyone is aware of the need to get this done quickly, and they 
assure me they will let me know as soon as something is settled. When 
that happens, I will broadcast the news. Meanwhile, libraries that 
purchase SOMACS T1 lines cannot submit their E-Rate application, since 
there is as yet no contract.

Stephen
-- 
Stephen Hedges, Director
Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN)
2323 W. Fifth Ave., Suite 130
Columbus, OH 43204
614-728-5250  ::  AIM: hedgesst