Connecticut Attorney General's Office

Press Release

Attorney General Applauds DPUC Decision Opening Door To Significant Fines Against AT&T For Failure To Meet State Repair Standards

June 24, 2009

"I am pleased that the DPUC heeded my strong concerns and significantly opened the door to more consumer credits and major fines. The company should be compelled to pay more to both consumers and the state for its consistent noncompliance.

"Important additions to the draft decision recognize -- as we have vigorously advocated -- that past sanctions have been inadequate to deter non-service. The final decision explicitly begins a formal penalty process in Phase II, offering hope that the DPUC will impose more than a slap on the wrist -- or a pat on the head -- for the company's systemic and consistent defiance of the law.

"I am hopeful that the commission will hold AT&T accountable. AT&T has mocked state law far too long, and only serious and severe penalties will compel compliance.

"My office will offer additional evidence -- invited by the department -- to seek additional credits for consumers and more than $920,000 in fines. AT&T's failure to adhere to repair standards endangers public safety and especially the elderly and disabled. AT&T's deteriorating service standards coincide with repeated layoffs, even as the company earned ever larger profits. Sacrificing jobs, service standards and public safety for bigger profits is inexcusable.

"I will continue fighting for repair and service standards -- and tough enforcement -- that assure phone line reliability."