JEFFERSON CITY, MO. (AP) -- Telephone companies would face less state regulation over things like billing in legislation approved by the House.

Republican House member Ed Emery, of Lamar, says his bill shifts how phones and telecommunication are controlled to a more capitalistic system than current government regulations.

He says market pressures can protect customer service and hold down prices.

One of the measure's main provisions would lower the standard for evaluating when phone companies have competitors. Those operating in competitive markets have different price restrictions.

Democratic critics say deregulation should be more controlled.

House member Jake Zimmerman, of Olivette, says phone bills in rural areas could go up - at least in the short term.

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