California denies AT&T’s request to discontinue landline telephone service and its status as the “carrier of last resort,” the state agency announced on Thursday. Marin County reported that AT&T’s (T.N) March 2023 request aimed to terminate services for over 580,000 eligible households statewide.
The California Public Utilities Commission rejected AT&T’s proposal, affirming that it does not prevent AT&T from phasing out copper facilities or investing in fiber and other technologies to enhance its network.
AT&T California President Marc Blakeman stated, “We are fully committed to maintaining connectivity for our customers as we collaborate with state leaders on policies for a smooth transition to modern communications across California.”
The company emphasized its dedication to ensuring customers retain traditional landline voice service until alternative options are available. Blakeman assured, “No customer will lose access to voice and 911 services.”
CPUC Commissioner John Reynolds underscored the importance of AT&T’s role in providing dependable telephone services statewide, noting that AT&T’s application did not comply with regulatory requirements designed to safeguard customer access.
On Thursday, CPUC initiated a new rulemaking process to update regulations in response to evolving market dynamics and technological advancements.
AT&T emphasized its adherence to a rigorous Federal Communications Commission review process to safeguard Californians’ access to reliable voice services. Additionally, AT&T referenced proposed legislation aimed at protecting rural customers from service disruptions.
“We remain steadfast in keeping our customers connected while collaborating with state policymakers on initiatives that promote a seamless transition to modern communications infrastructure for all Californians,” AT&T affirmed.
