Method and apparatus for transmitting service request messages in a congested network

A method, implemented in a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU), for transmitting extended service request messages in a congested network, the method comprising:

• receiving a message including a timer value;
• setting a timer in the WTRU based on the timer value;
• and
• activating the timer, wherein the WTRU is restricted from requesting services for mobile originated (MO) calls, except for MO circuit switched (CS) fallback for emergency calls, for as long as the timer is activated.

A wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) comprising:

• a timer;
• a receiver configured to receive a message including a timer value;
• and
• a processor configured to set the timer based on the timer value, and activate the timer, wherein the processor prevents the WTRU from transmitting an extended service request message to a network for mobile originated (MO) services, except for MO circuit switched (CS) fallback for emergency calls, until the timer expires.