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AT&T can\u2019t pull the plug on landline service for customers across California. In a ruling on Thursday<\/a>, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) rejected AT&T\u2019s request to release it from its obligations as a Carrier of Last Resort (COLR), as reported earlier by Ars Technica<\/em><\/a> and CBS News<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n AT&T has had a COLR designation in California since 1996, which ensures everyone in the state has access to affordable and reliable telephone service. Some people in California \u2014 especially those who live in remote areas \u2014 have come to rely on their landline service, as it allows them to make emergency calls even when the power is out or cellular service isn\u2019t available.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Earlier this year, AT&T asked CPUC<\/a> to be released from its duties as a designated carrier, citing the wide availability of mobile service and VoIP. In its request, AT&T argues the \u201ceconomic justification\u201d for COLR no longer exists because alternative voice services with \u201creasonable rates\u201d and \u201cbased on superior technologies\u201d are available throughout the state. The company adds that it \u201cbears substantial cost to maintain and operate\u201d the copper landline network, while competitors don\u2019t have to. AT&T says it would continue providing landline service in areas where there is no alternative available.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u201cAT&T failed to demonstrate the availability of replacement providers willing and able to serve as COLR.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n However, CPUC rejected AT&T\u2019s request. The agency says \u201cAT&T failed to demonstrate the availability of replacement providers willing and able to serve as COLR.\u201d The decision also cites public commenters who brought up the \u201cunreliability\u201d of mobile service and VoIP. AT&T is now pushing for new rules<\/a> that would change the way California designates a COLR.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \u201cNo customer will be left without voice and 911 services,\u201d Marc Blakeman, president of AT&T California, says in an emailed statement to The Verge<\/em>. \u201cWe are fully committed to keeping our customers connected while we work with state leaders on policies that create a thoughtful transition that brings modern communications to all Californians.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n