As the Board is aware, AT&T is seeking relief from its "Carrier of Last Resort" (COLR) obligations in certain parts of California, including within Yolo County, from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). The CPUC fact sheet included as Attachment B provides an excellent summary of AT&T's request and its general impact on affected regions, including that AT&T would no longer be required to provide "Basic Service" to affected households. As explained in the fact sheet, "Basic Service includes nine service elements such as Lifeline rates for eligible customers, free access to 9-1-1, Telephone Relay Service, and directory and operator services." The elimination of such services could significantly impact public safety and welfare in affected regions, particularly if no other carrier elects to provide such services.
The County sent a comment letter to the CPUC regarding the COLR proceeding on February 21, 2024, included as Attachment C to this staff report for ease of reference. The letter included as Attachment A supplements the County's initial letter with additional policy and legal arguments that more fully address AT&T's filed materials. It also responds to misleading statements by AT&T in a separate statement emailed to the Board of Supervisors and other recipients on February 21, 2024 (included as Attachment D). This Office recommends authorizing the Chair to sign the new letter to contribute to information and perspectives presented by commenters in the CPUC proceeding.
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