AT&T Wants to end its Carrier of Last Resort Obligations and that’s a big problem.

Last CPUC hearing on this is Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 2pm and 6pm pacific!

https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/proceedings-and-rulemaking/cpuc-public-participation-hearings

ATT is the carrier of last resort (COLR) for most of California. That means they are the carrier that must provide basic phone service to anyone in their territory. Even though Frontier is the COLR for Novato, ATT is the COLR for most other towns in Marin and beyond. And if ATT gets out of this obligation, then other carriers will follow suit.

As the COLR, they are serving their function and duty as a public utility, and we need to hold them accountable for keeping that obligation and the landline infrastructure we have in this country.

WHY?
Key advantages of landline phones that contribute to their importance:

1. Emergency Functionality/accurate 911 service: Landlines are more reliable during emergencies, providing clear address information to emergency operators. In contrast, cell phones may only display latitude and longitude, making it harder to locate individuals in need. Especially if someone lives in a high rise apartment.

2. Power Outages: Landline phones continue to operate during power outages, ensuring communication even in extended outage scenarios. This is a critical feature that cell phones cannot guarantee.


3. Necessity for Specific Populations: Individuals with disabilities; individuals whose sensitivity to wireless emissions prevents them from using cellular technology; small children and elderly, for whom dialing 911 on a landline phone is easier.


4. Home Security: Landline connections offer a more stable option for home security systems, crucial for monitoring fire and burglar alarm sensors.

5. Sound Quality: Landline phones generally provide better voice quality, which is important for individuals with hearing impairments or those who spend a significant amount of time on the phone.