Verizon has been allowing its copper network to...
Verizon has been allowing its copper network to deteriorate in an attempt to push landline customers to its FiOS and Voice Link services, The Utility Reform Network (TURN) alleged in an emergency motion filed (http://tinyurl.com/oyhclhx) with the California Public Utilities…
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Commission Tuesday. The motion seeks a CPUC order requiring Verizon to repair the service for copper-based landline phone customers who have requested repair or wish to retain the copper services they were cut off from. “Verizon is deliberately neglecting the repair and maintenance of its copper network with the explicit goal of migrating basic telephone service customers who experience service problems,” the motion said. “These migrations are often without the customers’ knowledge or consent. Moreover, Verizon is migrating these customers to a largely deregulated fiber-based telephone service that is inferior to basic phone service in certain key respects.” The motion noted VoIP services are susceptible to power outages. “The CPUC should not turn its back on basic phone customers, or allow Verizon to renege on its obligations to provide reliable service,” said TURN Telecommunications Director Regina Costa in a news release. “It should not permit Verizon to maximize profits while minimizing the service Californians receive.” Verizon “remains focused on providing our customers with the best possible service over the platforms that we have available to them,” said a spokesman by email. “Where our all-fiber network is available, it provides a reliable platform that can support anything ranging from traditional telephone service to next-generation technology services, depending on the customer’s needs. We are reviewing the filing and will respond as appropriate to the California Public Utilities Commission.” A CPUC spokeswoman wasn’t immediately available.