FCC Needs More Time to Look at Verizon Copper Retirement
Local governments and others had raised concerns about the availability of replacement services
Local governments and others had raised concerns about the availability of replacement services
WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2026 – Federal regulators are taking more time to review a Verizon application to discontinue copper service after local governments and subscribers raised concerns.
The wireless carrier had asked last month to discontinue legacy telephone service in nine states. The swathe of network covered by the application could serve 12 million locations, Verizon said in the filing, but only 277,000 actually subscribed.
The Communications Act of 1934 recognized two kinds of regulated companies, broadcasters and common carriers. Cable fit in neither.
Nevada is moving money earmarked for rural internet access to other state programs
The bill would block local approvals and state permits for new data centers and related energy infrastructure from July 2027.
The pandemic relief money will instead go to support mental health care in jails, food‑insecurity programs, and multifamily housing efforts