SBC Seeks Go-Ahead

SBC Communications Inc., the largest U.S. local phone carrier, asked federal regulators for permission to offer long-distance service to its customers in Texas. The Federal Communications Commission will have 90 days to determine whether San Antonio-based SBC has opened its dominant local network to competitors as required by the 1996 Telecommunications Act. Last month, the FCC allowed local carrier Bell Atlantic Corp. to become the first of the Baby Bells to offer long-distance service. SBC shares rose 63 cents to close at $44.75 on the NYSE.