(1) Pending its investigation and the decision thereon, the Arkansas Public Service Commission may suspend the operation of the rate by written order at any time before the new rate becomes effective. However, the suspension shall not be for a longer period than nine (9) months beyond the time when the rate would otherwise go into effect. Any order initially suspending the rate shall set a specific date for the commencement of a hearing inquiring into the rate requested unless waived by the applicant utility.
(2) Provided, however, that the commission may suspend, for a time certain, the operation of the rate or rates for a longer period than nine (9) months beyond the time when such rate or rates would otherwise go into effect if the public utility which filed the rate or rates files a waiver in writing with the commission before the expiration of the previously ordered suspension period consenting to such an additional suspension. The commission may not suspend a rate or rates for any additional period greater than that consented to by the public utility.
(3) The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any telephone company or telephone cooperative which has fewer than ten thousand (10,000) access lines.