On Thursday, RCRC submitted comprehensive comments to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Emergency Disaster Relief Program Rulemaking. The CPUC is considering requirements for communication service providers (such as AT&T and Verizon) to maintain resilient and dependable networks during power outages, including minimum levels of service during de-energization events like access to 9-1-1.

RCRC advocated for comprehensive system resiliency, in addition to backup power capabilities during a power outage, to ensure the integrity of local emergency management, response, and overall public safety. The CPUC intends to establish resiliency rules for communication service providers prior to Summer 2020. The CPUC proposal can be found here, and RCRC comments can be accessed here.