Sec. 51.331  Notice of network changes: Timing of notice.

    (a) An incumbent LEC shall give public notice of planned changes at 
the make/buy point, as defined in paragraph (b) of this section, but at 
least 12 months before implementation, except as provided below:

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    (1) If the changes can be implemented within twelve months of the 
make/buy point, public notice must be given at the make/buy point, but 
at least six months before implementation.
    (2) If the changes can be implemented within six months of the make/
buy point, public notice may be given pursuant to the short term notice 
procedures provided in Sec. 51.333.
    (b) For purposes of this section, the make/buy point is the time at 
which an incumbent LEC decides to make for itself, or to procure from 
another entity, any product the design of which affects or relies on a 
new or changed network interface. If an incumbent LEC's planned changes 
do not require it to make or to procure a product, then the make/buy 
point is the point at which the incumbent LEC makes a definite decision 
to implement a network change.
    (1) For purposes of this section, a product is any hardware or 
software for use in an incumbent LEC's network or in conjunction with 
its facilities that, when installed, could affect the compatibility of 
an interconnected service provider's network, facilities or services 
with an incumbent LEC's existing telephone network, facilities or 
services, or with any of an incumbent carrier's services or 
capabilities.
    (2) For purposes of this section a definite decision is reached when 
an incumbent LEC determines that the change is warranted, establishes a 
timetable for anticipated implementation, and takes any action toward 
implementation of the change within its network.

[ 61 FR 47352 , Sept. 6, 1996]