Verizon Seeks FCC Approval to Retire Copper Landlines Across 18 States
What happened
Verizon filed applications with the Federal Communications Commission in September seeking permission to retire its traditional copper-wire landline service, known as Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS), across New York and 17 other states. The company stated that the changes could begin as early as November 30th if the Federal Communications Commission grants procedural approval. The transition affects over a million customers across 18 states. U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and Congressman Josh Riley have both demanded answers from Verizon regarding the plan.
From wgna.com
Why it matters
The company's plan involves a massive infrastructure change from copper lines to alternative technology. Lawmakers have expressed serious concerns that the transition could force residents to pay more or lead to issues during power outages. This shift impacts the core service infrastructure of Verizon.
From wgna.com
Who's involved
- Chuck SchumerPressures Verizon regarding its plans to eliminate copper service.
- VerizonSeeking permission from the Federal Communications Commission to retire copper-wire landline service.
- Federal Communications CommissionAgency that must grant procedural approval for Verizon's service changes.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- New YorkSpeculative
Consumers might face increased costs due to the service transition.
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The entities involved
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Chuck Schumer
American politician (born 1950)
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Verizon
American broadband and telecommunications company