Sec. 51.309  Use of unbundled network elements.

    (a) An incumbent LEC shall not impose limitations, restrictions, or 
requirements on requests for, or the use of, unbundled network elements 
that would impair the ability of a requesting telecommunications carrier 
to offer a telecommunications service in the manner the requesting 
telecommunications carrier intends.
    (b) A telecommunications carrier purchasing access to an unbundled 
network element may use such network

[[Page 28]]

element to provide exchange access services to itself in order to 
provide interexchange services to subscribers.
    (c) A telecommunications carrier purchasing access to an unbundled 
network facility is entitled to exclusive use of that facility for a 
period of time, or when purchasing access to a feature, function, or 
capability of a facility, a telecommunications carrier is entitled to 
use of that feature, function, or capability for a period of time. A 
telecommunications carrier's purchase of access to an unbundled network 
element does not relieve the incumbent LEC of the duty to maintain, 
repair, or replace the unbundled network element.