AT&T has filed a petition with the FCC to shut down about 199,000 copper‑based phone customers in California, citing a need to replace the aging network with fiber or wireless. California regulators say the company lied to the commission and that the move would leave users without reliable service today.

The state’s filing argues that AT&T’s claim the copper lines are “fragile and expensive” is false, citing a 2008 CPUC ruling that would delay fiber rollouts. California insists that wireless LTE cannot substitute for wired POTS, especially indoors, where coverage gaps could cripple emergency 911 calls for all customers today.

California also warns that the proposed AT&T Phone‑Advanced service would cost consumers more than the basic copper plan and may not support low‑income Lifeline discounts or the Relay Service for the deaf. The state claims wireless coverage maps only show outdoor data, not indoor reliability for all users today again.

If the FCC greenlights the petition, California could sue the regulator for preempting state rules. The dispute underscores how legacy copper networks still shape telecom policy, even as carriers push toward fiber and 5G. Regulators must balance modern tech with consumer protection for all customers today and ensure fair service.