### Question
What is the definition of local access and transport area” or “LATA?


### Answer
The definition of **local access and transport area” or “LATA** is as follows in *47 U.S.C. § 153*:

> a contiguous geographic area—


(A) established before February 8, 1996, by a Bell operating company such that no exchange area includes points within more than 1 metropolitan statistical area, consolidated metropolitan statistical area, or State, except as expressly permitted under the AT&T Consent Decree

#### Citation:
  - *47 U.S.C. § 153*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 5-WIRE OR RADIO COMMUNICATION > SUBCHAPTER I-GENERAL PROVISIONS**

