AT&T can’t stop providing landline service to customers across California. In a ruling on Thursday, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) rejected AT&T’s request to be exempted from its carrier of last resort (COLR) obligations, as earlier reported technical art and CBS News.
AT&T has held COLR designation in California since 1996, ensuring everyone in the state has access to affordable and reliable phone service. Some people in California, especially those who live in remote areas, have come to rely on landline phone service because they can make emergency calls even when the power is out or cellular service is unavailable.
Earlier this year, AT&T asked the CPUC to relieve it of its designated carrier duties, citing the widespread availability of mobile services and VoIP. AT&T argued in its request that the “economic justification” for COLR no longer exists because alternative voice service is available across the state at “reasonable rates” and “based on advanced technology.” The company added that it “incurs significant costs to maintain and operate” its copper landline network, while competitors do not have to do so. AT&T said it will continue to offer landline service in areas where alternatives are not available.
“AT&T has failed to demonstrate that it has an alternative provider willing and able to serve as COLR.”
However, the CPUC rejected AT&T’s request. “AT&T has failed to demonstrate that it has an alternative provider willing and able to serve as COLR,” the agency said. The decision also cited public commenters who cited the “unreliability” of mobile service and VoIP. AT&T is currently pushing for new rules that would change the way California designates COLR.
“No customers will lose voice or 911 service,” AT&T California President Marc Blakeman said in an emailed statement. edge. “We are fully committed to keeping our customers connected while we work with state leaders to develop policies that create a thoughtful transition that brings modern communications to all Californians.”
