Northern Tier News

Reps. Clint Owlett and Tina Pickett are urging customers of Frontier and Verizon Communications to attend a public hearing on the proposed merger of the two companies. The Public Utility Commission (PUC) will hold an in-person hearing on February 13 at 6 p.m. at the Wellsboro Fire Company Annex in Wellsboro.

"Unlike many areas of the state, rural Pennsylvanians cannot assume quality, reliable internet and telephone service will be available to them, and that is especially true for customers of Frontier Communications," Owlett stated. "With this merger under review, we have another opportunity to make our case for the kind of service we need and deserve."

Pickett added, "I have heard from so many parents, families and business owners over the years who have struggled with slow or no internet, extended telephone outages, delayed repairs and more. We deserve better, and it’s important the PUC knows our needs as it reviews the terms of this proposed merger."

The lawmakers highlighted the need for residents to express their expectations regarding services provided, infrastructure maintenance, repair timelines, and customer service responsiveness.

For those unable to attend in person on February 13, telephonic hearings will be available on February 20 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., accessible via a toll-free number with a provided PIN. An additional in-person hearing is tentatively set for March 11 in Tunkhannock.

While registration to speak at these hearings is encouraged but not required, participants can pre-register by contacting the Office of Administrative Law Judge via phone or email. Those who register will testify based on their registration order.

Frontier and Verizon announced last fall that Verizon plans to acquire all of Frontier's assets nationwide for an estimated $20 billion. The acquisition requires approval from both federal and state regulatory bodies including the FCC and PUC.