Sykes Sends Letter to PUCO About AT&T's Lifeline

COLUMBUS - Today, state Senator Vernon Sykes (D-Akron) submitted the following letter to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio on AT&T’s request to end its Lifeline contract: August 31, 2018 Dear Commissioners, In 2018, having access to a phone is a necessity, not a luxury. AT&T provides access to basic phone services to almost 8,000 Ohioans through Lifeline. Reliable, timely communication is critical to modern society’s function. If the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio allows AT&T to dissolve their relationship with Lifeline, thousands of low-income Ohioans may lose access to their only means of communication. The argument that consumers can just switch to another phone company is disingenuous because some rural areas lack access to reliable and affordable alternatives. Further, the Federal Communication Commission is considering ending the Lifeline program with non-facilities based wireless providers, which would likely reduce the number of alternative Lifeline providers. The dissolution of AT&T Lifeline program will eliminate Ohioans’ ability to participate in today’s fast-paced world. It will eliminate their ability to receive timely medical care and emergency services, and engage their local job markets. I strongly urge the PUCO to oppose AT&T attempt to drop out of the vital Lifeline program. Sincerely,
Senator Vernon Sykes
28th Senate District