“It is imperative that any transition process be led by the CPUC and not by any individual carrier to ensure that the interest of all Californians, particularly those in rural and vulnerable communities, are fully protected.”
— Tracy Rhine, Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC)
Assemblymember Tina McKinnor has amended her bill (AB 470) to exempt 40 rural counties from a proposed phase-out of traditional copper landlines, hoping to revive the stalled legislation. The changes come after strong pushback from rural communities, who argue the plan risks cutting off reliable phone service in emergencies. McKinnor’s revised bill would still permit AT&T to end landline service in more urban counties with multiple carriers, but rural advocates remain opposed. The fate of landlines in rural areas will now rest with the California Public Utilities Commission, which is expected to update statewide rules next year.
