AT&T still required to offer landline phone service in California

AT&T cannot end landline phone service for customers across California. In a ruling issued Thursday, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) denied AT&T’s request to relieve it of its obligations as a carrier of last resort (COLR), as previously reported Ars Technica and CBS News.

AT&T has had the 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, now rely on their landline phone service because it allows them to make emergency calls even when the power is out or cell service is not available. available.

Earlier this year, AT&T asked the CPUC to be relieved of its designated carrier duties, citing the wide availability of mobile service and VoIP. In its application, AT&T argues that the “economic rationale” for COLR no longer exists because alternative voice services with “reasonable rates” and “based on superior technologies” are available throughout the state. The company adds that it “bears substantial costs to maintain and operate” the fixed copper network, while its competitors are not obliged to do so. AT&T says it will continue to provide landline telephone service in areas where there are no available alternatives.

“AT&T has failed to demonstrate the availability of replacement providers willing and able to serve as COLR.”

However, the CPUC denied AT&T’s request. The agency states that “AT&T has failed to demonstrate the availability of replacement providers willing and able to serve as COLR.” The ruling also cites public commenters who cited the “unreliability” of mobile service and VoIP. AT&T is now pushing for new rules that would change how California designates a COLR.

“No customer will be left without voice and 911 services,” said Marc Blakeman, president of AT&T California, in an emailed statement to The edge. “We are fully committed to keeping our customers connected while working with state leaders on policies that create a thoughtful transition that brings modern communications to all Californians.” »