The state Public Service Commission made a lot of West Virginians happy Wednesday by deciding to issue the state's second area code to new telephone customers only.

Representatives of Governor Manchin and Attorney General Darrell McGraw praised the PSC for dumping an earlier plan that would have assigned the new 681 area code to 28 northern and eastern counties.

Manchin spokeswoman Lara Ramsburg says the new approach makes the most sense for all West Virginians.

Manchin, McGraw and state lawmakers complained about the original plan when it was issued January 29.

Verizon Communications also praised the PSC, saying the new plan will minimize disruption.

PSC spokeswoman Sarah Robertson says the commission changed its mind primarily because of the negative impact the original plan would have had on businesses.

The new so-called overlay plan will take effect in 13 to 16 months. It will require people to dial 10 digits, the new area code and number, for all calls.