March 9, 2026
Across the country, policymakers are reexamining outdated telecom rules that no longer reflect how Americans communicate. Last week, the Federal Communications Commission took another big step toward speeding our nation’s transition to modern digital networks, joining the more than two dozen states who have made this progress a priority. This requires reforming decades-old state rules such as “Carrier of Last Resort,” or COLR, that require phone companies to spend billions maintaining outdated copper networks rather than focusing on faster, stronger networks consumers actually use.
In a market defined by competing telecom, cable, wireless, satellite and other communications choices, consumers have overwhelmingly chosen modern networks to connect with each other and the world, including over the phone. Four out of five of us now live in wireless-only households. For the few who still have landlines, nearly 80 percent of the connections already operate over broadband networks—not copper. In fact, just 1.4 percent of Americans rely solely on what’s called copper-based “plain old telephone service.”
It’s time for the rules to catch up with reality.
That’s why we in the broadband community are standing together for smart, common-sense policies and approaches that allow our nation to complete a thoughtful and necessary transition from copper to digital networks. Our new initiative, America’s Connected Future, is committed to helping consumers, businesses, communities, and civic leaders understand the benefits of this transition, and the important consumer protections in place at every step.
The core principle of reform is simple: where modern, reliable voice service is available, companies should no longer be required to maintain costly, duplicative and outdated copper networks.
What does this mean for people with home landlines? They will still be able to make and receive calls at home, including 911 – but now over newer, more reliable and resilient modern networks.
This transition has life-changing benefits for consumers and communities across the country.
Copper networks are increasingly vulnerable to weather damage and theft. Service restoration can often take weeks if not months because replacement parts are harder to find as manufacturers discontinue declining product lines. Modern networks are more weather-resilient, able to withstand scorching or freezing temps, with real-time detection of any issues and faster service restoration.
Many of these newer services are often similar in cost and, in some cases, less expensive. Enhanced features provide improved customer experiences while enabling consumers to continue utilizing the services with which they are familiar.
Modern networks also are designed to integrate seamlessly with enhanced 911 systems, delivering more precise location information and faster routing to first responders. Those of us from “the late 1900s” remember copper lines working during power outages. Many of today’s broadband-based phone services offer battery backup options, so the ability to connect – including during outages – remains.
Equally important, the transition from copper to modern digital networks promises a thoughtful and orderly process that leaves no one behind. Copper retirement can only move forward where reliable modern calling service is available. This includes the more than 95 percent of Americans who have access to 5G wireless connectivity and/or wired, high-speed broadband (≥100/20 Mbps).
The digital transition is well underway as consumers have resoundingly chosen modern networks. Public policy should reflect their choice. By protecting the essential service — reliable voice calling — while allowing for the retirement of obsolete infrastructure, the transition to digital technology focuses investment on the secure, resilient modern networks Americans rely on every day.
The future is calling. Will more states answer the call?