RCRC joined The Utility Reform Network, the California Alliance for Digital Equity, the California State Association of Counties, the Communications Workers of America and other organizations in the filing. Designed by Magnific

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Rural County Representatives of California has joined a coalition of local government, consumer advocacy, labor and public interest organizations in urging the Federal Communications Commission to reject an AT&T petition that opponents say could weaken telephone service protections for millions of Californians, particularly those in rural communities.

The coalition filed comments with the FCC on July 7 and July 22 opposing AT&T's request to prevent California's Carrier of Last Resort requirements from applying when the company discontinues its traditional landline, or Plain Old Telephone Service, network.

RCRC joined The Utility Reform Network, the California Alliance for Digital Equity, the California State Association of Counties, the Communications Workers of America and other organizations in the filing.

At issue is AT&T's request that the FCC determine California cannot require the company to continue meeting Carrier of Last Resort obligations after federal approval is granted to discontinue traditional landline service.

California's Carrier of Last Resort requirements are designed to ensure residents have access to basic telephone service regardless of where they live. Opponents argue eliminating those protections could have the greatest impact on rural communities, where wireless and other replacement technologies may not provide the same level of reliability, especially during emergencies and power outages.

The coalition also argues California's rules do not require providers to maintain aging copper telephone lines or use any specific technology. Instead, they require telephone companies to continue providing reliable communications service using available technologies.

"Universal service remains a cornerstone of public safety and connectivity for rural communities across California, especially during emergencies, natural disasters, and power outages," said Napa County Supervisor Anne Cottrell, RCRC's second vice chair. "It is critical that any replacement technology provides the same or better reliability, functionality, and service quality as the existing landline network before these longstanding protections are eliminated."

The FCC comments are the latest step in a broader legal effort by RCRC and its partners. The organizations recently filed an amicus brief supporting the California Public Utilities Commission and the California attorney general in AT&T's federal lawsuit challenging the state's authority to enforce Carrier of Last Resort requirements.

RCRC also joined a motion seeking formal party status in the case, saying it wants to ensure rural communities and California residents are represented as the case moves forward.

The legal filings were submitted in partnership with TURN, the California State Association of Counties and the Communications Workers of America.