Written by David Shepardson
(Reuters) – California has rejected AT&T's (NYSE:) attempt to stop offering landline telephone and other services as a “carrier of last resort,” a government agency said on Thursday.
Marin County said AT&T's order filed in March 2023 would have ended services to more than 580,000 eligible households across the state.
The California Public Utilities Commission said in denying AT&T's request that the decision did not prevent AT&T from retiring utilities or from investing in fiber or other facilities or technologies to improve its network.
“We are fully committed to keeping our customers connected as we work with state leaders on policies that create a thoughtful transition that brings modern communications to all Californians,” said AT&T California President Mark Blakeman.
The company was committed to ensuring customers were able to retain their existing traditional terrestrial voice service until they could access an alternative. “No customer will be left without voice and 911 services,” Blackman said.
The CPUC said AT&T plays a pivotal role in providing reliable phone service to communities across the state and said it did not meet the requirements to opt out.
“We will protect customers' access to basic phone service — regardless of where they live, their income, or access to other forms of communication,” Commissioner John Reynolds said. “Our rules were designed to provide that guarantee, and AT&T's enforcement did not follow our rules.” .
The CPUC opened a new rulemaking procedure Thursday to adapt its regulations to evolving market conditions and technological advances.
AT&T said it is required to undergo a rigorous review process by the FCC that ensures Californians maintain access to reliable voice services.
She also pointed to proposed legislation that would ensure that customers in rural areas are not affected. “We are fully committed to keeping our customers connected as we work with state leaders on policies that create an informed transition that delivers modern communications for all Californians,” AT&T said.