North Louisiana: Mandatory 10-Digit Dialing Soon

The message I received from Verizon reminded me that changes are coming for all of us here in North Louisiana.

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We are literally only weeks away from being forced into dialing the full area code in front of any call we might make or text we might send.

While this won't be much of a challenge for the lion share of North Louisiana residents, it might require you to go through your contacts list to make sure you actually put the area code in front of all those numbers stored in there.

Why Is North Louisiana Now Having To Use Full Area Code For All Numbers Called?

You might recall that back in January of this year, AT&T announced that the Louisiana Public Service Commission was adding a new 457 area code to North Louisiana.

The new 457 code isn't meant to replace the current 318 area code, but essentially will pick up where 318 leaves off.

In the announcement of this transition, we learn that after September 25th, any new phone numbers for North Louisiana will be given the new 457 area code. However, those numbers that are already assigned the 318 area code will keep their current assignment, so from that point forward, both codes will be active for the area.

Why Will N. Louisiana Callers Be Forced To Include Area Codes Prior To September 25?

However, to make the transition, AT&T, and obviously Verizon, will require the area code input on all outgoing calls or texts, even those within the same area code, beginning August 25.

So, in essence, just as if you were making an "out of area code" call, you'll need to enter the full ten digit number including area code.  (I'm assuming there could be number duplication in the area, so while your number could be 318-123-4567, there could also be a 457-123-4567 which would explain the area code necessity)