NEW YORK (WBNG) — New York State Assemblyman Joseph Angelino is urging federal and state regulators to hold public hearings following Verizon’s decision to discontinue landline telephone service.
The Norwich Republican directed his appeal to both the Federal Communications Commission and the New York Public Service Commission to address the potential impact on rural residents.
“In areas such as rural upstate New York, many folks still use a landline for their communications due to the unreliable nature of rural cell service,” Angelino said. “For a decision that will impact so many people, multiple public hearings are needed to ensure the people’s voices are heard.”
The service termination will also affect Frontier Communications customers, as Verizon operates as the provider’s parent company.
Angelino noted that approximately 40% of New York households still maintain landlines, with reliance running significantly higher across rural communities where cellular reception remains inconsistent.
“I am calling on both the FCC and the PSC to immediately hold these hearings. I am also urging anyone who has a complaint or concern to contact the FCC by visiting the website here or by calling 1-888-225-5322; you can also reach out to the PSC here or call 1-800-342-3377,” Angelino said.
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