LATA
Local Access Transport Area. Defines that area, in a state served by a Bell telephone company, in which, under current federal Telecommunications Act rules, the company can provide service. Each service area may include one or more area codes or share a common area code.
LEC - (Local Exchange Carrier)
Local Exchange Carrier. Provider of local exchange services; includes the Bell Companies and all independent telcoms.
ex. AT&T, Verizon, Qwest.
Local Loop
The telephone line that runs from the local telephone company to the premise of the end user.
Local service
Charges for recurring flat-rate monthly service, measured local calls, local private lines, local use of public telephones and local directory assistance.
