For Immediate Release
April 21, 2025
Contact: Molly Weedn
molly@weednpa.com

SACRAMENTO, CA – Californians for a Connected Future (CCF) has more than doubled its coalition presence, with more than 100 organizations signing onto the broad and diverse list of supporters standing behind Assembly Bill 470. The coalition represents social justice advocates, business leaders, veterans, education groups, Tribes, non-profits, champions for older adults and disability rights, and many more.  

The bill, which will be heard in the Assembly Committee Communications and Conveyance later this month, will prioritize investments in advanced communication options while ensuring no Californian or community is left behind.  

“Reliable, high-speed connections are essential for a strong economy, yet California continues to invest resources in an outdated copper network that no longer meets today’s needs, said Jennifer Barrera, President & CEO, California Chamber of Commerce. “AB 470 will help California prioritize investments in modern infrastructure like fiber, to help small businesses thrive, improve telehealth and education access, and strengthen our state’s economic future.” 

In California today, only 5% of households within the service area of the state’s largest landline provider still subscribe to copper-based home phone service – a number that continues to decline. But outdated state laws result in massive investments in aging copper landline technology that consumers are increasingly abandoning because it does not meet their needs. These laws hinder investments in more modern communications systems that consumers are demanding because they provide more reliable and innovative options.  

“A modernized communications network is essential in connecting all communities – especially those living with low vision or blindness,” said Shari Roeseler, Executive Director, Society for the Blind. “AB 470 aligns with our mission to empower individuals living with low vision or blindness to discover, develop and achieve their full potential by ensuring the fastest, most reliable and technologically updated communication channels are available. 

Importantly, critical emergency services, like texting 9-1-1, aren’t supported by outdated copper networks that have been around for more than a century. Updating the system to use modern technologies will help to keep Californians safe, especially during times of crisis.   

“VetsinTech is committed to bringing together a tech-specific network, resources, and programs for our veterans interested in Education, Entrepreneurship, and Employment,” said Katherine Webster, CEO & Founder, VetsinTech. “In order to provide resources for the men and women who have served our country, we need modern, reliable technologies that can keep them connected and help them transition to successful lives back home. AB 470 is a vitally important step to achieving this.”   

CCF is committed to the following principles in promoting the future of connectivity:  

• No Californian will be left without reliable phone service in their homes – including 9-1-1 services.  
• A phased, multi-year approach is best for customers and best for California.  
• Any transition will be a collaborative and transparent process.  

The full coalition list can be found, here. 

About Californians for a Connected Future   

Californians for a Connected Future (CCF) is a broad and diverse group of organizations dedicated to innovative, reliable, fast and affordable communications for all. CCF supports Assembly Bill 470 which is being developed as part of a comprehensive stakeholder process to prioritize investments in advanced communications options for all, while ensuring no Californian or community is left behind. CCF is a project of USTelecom – The Broadband Association. For more information, visit: www.caconnectedfuture.org