Baldwin raises concerns that rural Wisconsinites could be left without reliable phone service, including during emergencies
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) demanded answers from Verizon CEO Dan Schulman regarding the company’s plan to transition away from copper-based voice service, raising concerns that some Wisconsinites could be left without reliable phone service if an adequate alternative is not in place, particularly in rural areas where wireless or other replacement services may be limited. Baldwin’s call comes as Verizon plans to retire copper facilities at 136 Wisconsin wire centers and discontinue traditional landline service.
“While I recognize the need to modernize aging telecommunications infrastructure, I am concerned that some affected Wisconsinites, particularly those in rural areas, may not have access to an immediate, adequate and reliable replacement service,” wrote Senator Baldwin in the letter to Verizon CEO Dan Schulman. “These concerns are especially important where customers rely on landline service for emergency communications.”…