Logo courtesy of the Rural County Representatives of California

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Rural County Representatives of California has filed a motion to intervene in a federal lawsuit brought by AT&T, saying the case could affect the reliability of telephone service in rural communities across California.

RCRC filed the motion in partnership with The Utility Reform Network, the California State Association of Counties and the Communications Workers of America. The coalition is seeking formal party status in AT&T's lawsuit against the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Attorney General.

At issue are California's Carrier of Last Resort requirements, which require telephone providers to offer basic telephone service to residents regardless of where they live. AT&T's lawsuit seeks to eliminate those obligations.

The organizations previously filed an amicus brief supporting the CPUC and Attorney General. The motion to intervene would allow them to participate directly in the case before a final decision is made.

"This intervention is about ensuring rural voices are heard in a case that could have far-reaching consequences for communities across California," said RCRC Board Chair Miles Menetrey, who also serves as a Mariposa County supervisor. "Carrier of Last Resort obligations have helped guarantee access to essential communications services for decades. Any effort to eliminate those protections must be carefully scrutinized to ensure rural residents are not left with less reliable service and fewer consumer protections."

According to RCRC, the filing argues that any replacement for the existing landline network should provide the same or better reliability, functionality and quality of service. The coalition also contends California should retain its authority to enforce consumer protection and public safety standards, particularly in rural and underserved communities where wireless service may be limited or unavailable.

RCRC said Carrier of Last Resort requirements remain important during emergencies, natural disasters, and power outages, when traditional landline service can continue operating even if other communications networks fail.

The organization said it will continue advocating for communications policies that preserve reliable, affordable service and protect public safety for rural Californians as newer technologies are introduced.