### Question
How does the law define Bell operating company?


### Answer
Under *47 U.S.C. § 274*, **Bell operating company** is defined as:

> provided in section 153 of this title, except that such term includes any entity or corporation that is owned or controlled by such a company (as so defined) but does not include an electronic publishing joint venture owned by such an entity or corporation.

#### Citation:
  - *47 U.S.C. § 274*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 5-WIRE OR RADIO COMMUNICATION > SUBCHAPTER II-COMMON CARRIERS > Part III-Special Provisions Concerning Bell Operating Companies**

