Verizon has applied to the Federal Communications Commission to discontinue landline service in parts of New York and other states, prompting pushback from local lawmakers over rural safety and emergency access. (Photo by Kelli Miller)

NEW YORK STATE — Verizon has applied to the Federal Communications Commission to discontinue traditional copper-based voice service in parts of New York and other states, prompting pushback from local lawmakers over rural safety and emergency access.

The application, filed Sept. 9, proposes changes no earlier than Nov. 30, pending regulatory approval. Verizon emphasized that Nov. 30 is not a confirmed shutdown date for every customer.

The move has drawn concern from officials representing upstate New York, where reliance on landlines remains high.

Assemblyman Joseph Angelino, R-C-Norwich, called on the FCC and the New York Public Service Commission to hold public hearings on the plan. He noted that 40% of New York homes still use landlines, with higher concentrations in rural areas prone to unreliable cell service.

"In areas such as rural upstate New York, many folks still use a landline for their communications due to the unreliable nature of rural cell service," Angelino said in a statement. "For a decision that will impact so many people, multiple public hearings are needed to ensure the people's voices are heard."

Verizon acquired Frontier Communications in January, and the application also covers certain Frontier copper-service customers.

Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Josh Riley, D-N.Y., asked Verizon in a Sept. 30 letter to delay any planned shutdown in his congressional district until the company identifies affected customers, proves they have working alternatives for emergencies and power outages, and clarifies potential impacts on rates and equipment costs. Riley requested a written response from Verizon CEO Dan Schulman by 5 p.m. Oct. 15.

"For many Upstate New Yorkers, discontinuing copper landline service would mean losing the only phone service they can count on," Riley said.

In response, Verizon states on its copper-service update page that it will not disconnect a customer's existing service unless an FCC-approved alternative, such as fiber or wireless-based home phone service, is available at that location. The company argues that maintaining aging copper infrastructure diverts resources from newer network upgrades and that emergency calls will continue to function on modern networks.

Customers who receive a Verizon transition notice should check their specific timelines and available options, as transition dates vary by location.

Customers with complaints or concerns can contact the FCC at fcc.gov or by calling 1-888-225-5322.