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provider was repeatedly denied numerous good faith attempts to obtain a local permit.to construct a facility in a needed service area. • Among other matters, G.O. 159 also establishes the CPUC as the lead agency for CEQA review for new cellular systems, and local agencies as CEQA lead agencies for infill,cell sites and switching facilities for existing cellular systems. In 1991, the Cellular Carriers Association of California(CCAC) requested changes in G.O. 159 to streamline the permitting process. In December 1994, a formal rulemaking was initiated by the CPUC to consider revisions to G.O. 159 and its rules governing environmental review and the siting of cellular communications facilities.. During 1995, the CPUC held a series of workshops, including one in San Diego at which revisions to G.0 159 were discussed. The Safety and Enforcement Division of the CPUC (S&E Division)released a revised version of G.O. 159,entitled • G.O. 159A, for public review and comment. In October 1995, the S&E Division and the CCAC reached an agreement about G.O. 159A and filed a notice of settlement conferences. Two conferences to discuss the draft settlement agreement were held to allow interested parties to comment on the proposed settlement. In its current draft form, G.O. 159A would require cellular service providers: (1) to obtain all requisite local land use approvals for construction of new sites or modifications of existing sites; (2) to file a"notification letter"to the CPUC within 15 days after receiving local approval, which states that they have obtained all necessary local permits for construction of new sites or modifications of existing sites (a copy of the "notification letter would be mailed to the local agency or governing school district); and (3) to file with the CPUC a tariff list of all existing sites on a quarterly basis commencing January 30 of each year. Under G.O. 159A, cellular service providers would not need to notify the CPUC of minor maintenance or repair work to existing facilities; however, they would still need to comply with all local permitting requirements. Formal complaints concerning providers' compliance with G.O. 159A would be filed with the CPUC. In addition, the CPUC would continue to maintain preemptive authority. As of the publication date of this document, a revised G.O. 159A had not been adopted by the CPUC. Further information about the status of G.O. 159A may be obtained by calling the S&E Division of the CPUC at (415) 703-1836. Local Level Most local governmental agencies regulate wireless communications facilities via land use regulations contained in respective zoning ordinances and general plans, and are responsible for reviewing and processing applications for discretionary and ministerial permits for these facilities. Local governments also have the broad authority to ensure the public health, safety and welfare of their citizens. 24