In this subchapter:
(1) “Exiting utility” means a telecommunications utility that:
(A) holds a certificate of operating authority or a service provider certificate of operating authority;
(B) is the predominant provider of basic local telecommunications service in a defined geographic area and provides those services using the utility’s own facilities; and
(C) ceases operations in all or part of the utility’s certificated service area under § 54.253 or 54.303.
(2) “Provider of last resort” means a certificated telecommunications utility that must offer basic local telecommunications service throughout a defined geographic area.
(3) “Successor utility” means a telecommunications utility that holds a certificate of convenience and necessity, certificate of operating authority, or service provider certificate of operating authority, and that is or is designated to become the provider of last resort for the defined geographic area previously served by an exiting utility.