Assembly committee backs AB 470 to modernize carrier-of-last-resort rules after contested hearing

The California State Assembly Communications Conveyance Committee on Tuesday voted to give AB 470 a due-pass recommendation after a two-hour hearing that pitted industry and public-safety supporters against labor and digital-equity advocates.

Assemblymember McKenner, author of AB 470, told the committee the bill would ‘‘create a framework to transition all regions of the state to ensure that all California households will continue to be able to make affordable, reliable telephone calls and connect with emergency services when they need it.’’

The bill would allow telephone carriers of last resort (COLR) to seek relinquishment of that obligation in well‑served areas, subject to a new rulemaking and mapping process run by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Key amendments adopted before the hearing and discussed during it place the mapping and challenge process under CPUC authority, require a public challenge window, and increase a build‑out investment requirement tied to each relinquishment.

Why this matters: AB 470 would change long-standing regulation that requires certain telephone companies to serve and repair landline service wherever requested. Proponents say the law is outdated and that a transition to modern networks (including fiber) can protect public safety and reflect current consumer choices. Opponents say the bill risks leaving vulnerable households without reliable voice service, creates workforce uncertainty for unionized employees, and relies on flawed broadband and wireless coverage maps unless stronger on‑the‑ground verification and…