COLUMBUS — Ohio telephone customers whose service is out or isn't installed or repaired as promised now are guaranteed credits on their bills.

        The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio on Tuesday updated the Minimum Telephone Service Standards, which were first approved in 1998.

        Previously, credits were provided only when requested by the customer.

        Now, it's mandatory that phone companies credit customers when service is out at least 24 hours and when installation and repair appointments are missed within a five-day period. The credits can be for up to a month's local service.

        The revised standards also require telephone companies to provide a more easily understandable bill and to strengthen the customer bill of rights.

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