AT&T and Verizon Phase Out Copper Landlines Across 18 States
AT&T and Verizon are retiring legacy copper landline services in favor of fiber and wireless technology following a streamlined Federal Communications Commission approval process.
Major telecommunications providers AT&T and Verizon are phasing out traditional copper landline services across 18 U.S. states, including Texas, Ohio, Alabama, Louisiana, and Wisconsin. The transition, which began in mid-November 2026, was accelerated by a March 2026 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) order that streamlined the retirement of aging infrastructure to encourage investment in fiber-optic technology.
AT&T began discontinuing services in 25 Alabama communities and 53 Louisiana communities starting November 15, while Verizon scheduled similar retirements for November 16, including the closure of 136 service centers in Wisconsin. The companies cite copper theft, weather damage, and the high cost of maintaining century-old infrastructure as primary drivers for the shift. AT&T reports that only 1% of its customers still use copper lines, while Verizon estimates a 3% nationwide usage rate.
Rural residents and local officials have raised alarms over the loss of reliable communication. In regions like the Northwoods of Wisconsin and rural Ohio, geography often prevents cellular or satellite coverage, leaving copper lines as the sole means of contact. Critics warn that the phase-out threatens emergency 911 access and life-safety systems, such as medical alerts and fire alarms. In response, Verizon has stated it will not discontinue service for customers lacking an FCC-approved replacement, and both providers are offering transitions to wireless or fiber-based alternatives.
