CONGRESSMAN
U.S. Rep. Ben Cline, R-Va., is praising the Federal Communications Commission’s decision not to grant Verizon’s initial application to discontinue copper-based landline service across much of Virginia.
The FCC announced Friday that it did not grant Verizon’s application to discontinue the service. Cline previously sent a letter to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr urging the agency to review the proposed changes.
“I applaud the FCC for their decision to pause any changes to Virginia’s copper-based landline service, following my letter to Chairman Carr,” Cline said.
Cline said Virginia’s 6th Congressional District includes mountainous and rural communities where reliable communication is important, particularly in areas with limited cellular coverage.
“Ending copper-based landline service before dependable alternatives are widely available could leave families without a reliable way to contact emergency services or stay connected with loved ones, particularly in areas with limited cellular coverage and frequent weather-related outages,” Cline said.
Cline said he shares concerns raised by constituents about the potential effects of the proposed changes on public safety and basic connectivity.
“I will continue to monitor and work with the FCC to ensure that any future changes by Verizon do not leave families without reliable service,” Cline said.
-The Salem Times-Register
