Nevada County residents who rely on traditional landlines for reliable communications in emergencies can breathe a sigh of relief. California Assembly Bill 470, which could have allowed AT&T to phase out copper-wire landline service, failed to advance in the Legislature.
District 4 Supervisor Sue Hoek said she is happy about the outcome, noting the importance of maintaining dependable service in rural areas where cell coverage can be limited and power outages frequent. “We’re still going to have challenges over time, but I’m really excited about it,” she said.
Landline service continues to be a lifeline for many Nevada County residents, particularly in rural communities where cell towers may not reach. Hoek will continue to monitor telecommunications legislation closely to ensure rural voices are heard.
She urged residents who are having trouble getting landlines to contact her at Sue.Hoek@NevadaCountyCa.gov or at 530-265-1480. She said she has success working with AT&T to keep residents’ landline service.
“Do not let them tell you that you can’t have a phone in Nevada County,” Hoek said.