Northern Tier News

State lawmakers are encouraging customers of Frontier and Verizon Communications to express their opinions on the proposed merger between the two companies. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will hold a series of hearings for public input.

In-person hearings are scheduled for February 10 at George A. Smith Middle School Auditorium in Quarryville, Lancaster County, and February 13 at Wellsboro Fire Company Annex in Wellsboro, Tioga County. Telephonic sessions will occur on February 20 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., accessible via a toll-free number with a provided PIN.

Additional hearings may be arranged in Bradford or Wyoming County.

Representatives Tina Pickett, Clint Owlett, Martin Causer, Bryan Cutler, Jonathan Fritz, and Joe Hamm represent residents who receive services from Frontier. They stated: “After years of dealing with poor service from Frontier, these customers deserve assurances they will be treated better by Verizon."

The representatives emphasized the importance of maintaining improvements achieved through previous settlements with Frontier and holding Verizon accountable for further progress.

They urged customers to communicate their needs and expectations to the PUC regarding this change in ownership: “This is our opportunity once again to advocate for quality communications and connection for rural communities like ours.”

Pre-registration for speaking at the hearings is encouraged but not mandatory. Interested individuals can contact the Office of Administrative Law Judge via phone or email to register.

The merger involves Verizon acquiring all of Frontier’s assets nationwide for an estimated $20 billion. Approval is required from both the Federal Communications Commission and the PUC, as well as similar commissions in other states affected by the merger.