Van Drew Calls for BPU Hearing on Verizon Landline Service Problems

TRENTON – Citing the need for the state Board of Public Utilities to understand the public safety and quality of life issues caused by inadequate landline service in South Jersey, Senator Jeff Van Drew has requested the BPU hold a public hearing on the matter in the 1st Legislative District.
Senator Van Drew made the request for a hearing on the Verizon service issues in a letter sent to BPU President Richard Mroz. The senator also is drafting legislation that would permit the Legislature to participate in legal action taken by Cumberland County and filed with the BPU regarding problems with  Verizon’s service.
“Municipalities in Cumberland and Atlantic counties have reported serious problems with landline telephone service that has proven unreliable and created major telecommunications issues for residents, business owners and emergency personnel. The failure of Verizon to properly maintain its copper lines in this region of the state has led to telephone interference and, at times, completely inoperable landline and Internet service,” wrote Senator Van Drew. “These problems are not only an inconvenience, they are causing public safety and quality of life issues and require action.”
“I respectfully request that BPU hold a public hearing in the 1st Legislative District to hear directly from residents, emergency personnel and public officials about the communications problems they are experiencing. I would also request that Verizon participate. I believe this hearing will demonstrate the extent of the issues consumers in the Cumberland and Atlantic County areas are dealing with when it comes to basic telecommunications services and illustrate the need for a permanent solution.”