SBC, Verizon Fined Over Denial of Access

SBC Communications Inc. and Verizon Communications Inc. paid a combined $3.86 million in penalties for not giving rivals equal access to their networks.

SBC paid $3.4 million this month for failing to meet guidelines it accepted to win approval of its 1999 purchase of Ameritech Corp. Verizon paid $462,669.

The guidelines require SBC and Verizon to give competitors equal access to the lines and switches needed to provide phone services.

Verizon shares rose 32 cents to $47.01 SBC shares fell 12 cents to $37.50. Both trade on the New York Stock Exchange.