Posted on October 15, 2026
Verizon is seeking Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval to retire traditional copper POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) in portions of New York, beginning on or after November 30, 2026, subject to FCC approval and required customer notice.
For residents who rely on traditional landlines, particularly in rural areas where power outages can last for hours or days, the reliability of replacement telephone and 911 service matters.
Help the Ulster County Commission for Digital Inclusion understand what’s happening in our communities.
Take the Ulster County Survey
Residents are encouraged to complete a survey about their current telephone service, the reliability of available alternatives, and any public safety concerns.
The survey can be completed online or on paper at your Town Hall.
Survey Deadline: Monday, October 19, 2026
Click Here to Take the Ulster County Survey
Share Your Concerns with the FCC
Residents may also share their experiences or concerns directly with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
When submitting comments, reference FCC Docket No. 26-252 so your comments become part of the official public record.
Click Here to Submit Comments to the FCC
Why Your Participation Matters
Communication during an emergency is not a convenience. Reliable access to telephone and 911 service should be available to every resident, including those in our rural communities.
The Citizens Commission for Digital Inclusion will use resident input to:
- Document local telephone service conditions.
- Assess the reliability of replacement telephone services.
- Identify potential public safety concerns.
- Help inform Ulster County’s response to Verizon and state and federal regulators.
Please participate and share this information with your neighbors.
Questions or Additional Information
For questions, please contact:
Email: Jenny.Lee@UlsterCountyNY.gov
Phone: 201-873-5753