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Public commenters warn FCC changes could leave Bakersfield residents without landlines
Summary
Residents raised alarms about an expedited FCC process and a petition by a private carrier that could eliminate landline service regulation in nearby exchanges, warning some towns could see landlines end without notice and urging the plan to include language supporting replacement options for residents.
Multiple public commenters raised concerns about proposed regulatory changes affecting landline telephone service and local emergency communications. A commenter (S4) said the FCC had fast-tracked a petition and that the carrier Infinium had filed to remove landline requirements, listing March 24 and May 5 as days when affected exchanges could see automatic approvals and service changes.
Chair (S1) noted telecommunications regulation falls under the state telecommunications division rather than the planning commission’s jurisdiction but encouraged language in the town plan that acknowledges the risk and directs efforts to ensure residents have multiple replacement options for landline-dependent households. One commenter urged sharing the discussion with the select board for further action.
