AT&T Loses Court Ruling in Push to Exit Basic Phone Service in California

AT&T has suffered a legal setback in its effort to stop providing basic landline telephone service in California. A court ruled against the telecom giant, blocking its attempt to exit traditional phone service obligations in the state. California regulations require carriers like AT&T to continue offering basic phone service to residents. Despite the ruling, AT&T has indicated it will continue pursuing relief through both the courts and the Federal Communications Commission. The company is seeking federal preemption of California's state-level rules governing landline service.