Linking Michigan Will Bring Savings.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

LANSING, Mi.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30, 2003

In a move that will potentially save the State of Michigan about $4 million annually, the State and a team of technology providers led by SBC (NYSE: SBC) have reached final agreement to provide a significant amount of the state's telecommunications technology for the next six years. The agreement referred to as "LinkMichigan," will expand broadband technology across the state while saving valuable dollars in the process.

"This is an obvious win for us," commented Governor Jennifer Granholm. "Through LinkMichigan, we will improve telecommunications for state government and our extended purchasing partners, making government, schools, and libraries more efficient and effective, while saving taxpayer dollars at the same time."

"We are excited about the ability to increase broadband capability in Michigan," commented Teri Takai, Director of the Department of Information Technology. "This is a unique opportunity to enhance our telecommunications technology and allow the residents and other business partners in the state to reap some of the benefits. By improving the telecommunications infrastructure for the state, we allow government to serve the citizens in a more efficient way."

Overall, the contract provides for reduced rates to state agencies, savings that will be seen in the data billings and direct billings for each department. SBC will provide the services primarily through its PremierSERV product line. Some of the operational changes and new technology resulting from LinkMichigan includes:

-- Convergence of current multiple networks into a single