California Approves Verizon-Frontier Acquisition with Strong Consumer Protections and Oversight

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved the transfer of control of Frontier's California operations to Verizon, subject to enforceable conditions, ongoing monitoring, and consumer protections. The decision includes requirements intended to:

• Expand affordable voice and broadband options, including protections for low-income customers and California LifeLine participants.
• Support continued broadband investment and network reliability, particularly in communities currently served by Frontier.
• Establish comprehensive tribal engagement requirements.
• Further California’s public policy goals of diverse supply chains and workforces, including a $10 million partnership with the California State University system.
• Protect rural and copper customers through enforceable performance standards, resilience requirements, and oversight.
• Maintain strong enforcement and monitoring, including reporting requirements and compliance mechanisms.