Fairpoint Communications has begun the process of deregulating landline service in Maine’s most populous towns, including Gorham. The change affects 22 municipalities across the state.

Beginning in 2015, the Office of the Public Advocate, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), AARP, consumer groups, FairPoint (as the Provider of Last Resort, or POLR) and other telecommunications providers held meetings to discuss the issue further. The Maine State Legislature worked to “find a balance between protecting consumers while ensuring a robust telecommunications market” when it passed a new law in April 2016 allowing deregulation.

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) hosted an informational meeting in Gorham on March 22 to inform consumers about the new changes and how it affects them. While the turnout was low, the PUC communicated that “Fairpoint will, for one year, offer current POLR service customers a POLR-equivalent service at current rates. After that, Fairpoint may charge a new rate.” The PUC went on to say that there are other choices for telephone service, however, and customers can learn more about their options here.

According to Amy Gallant of the AARP, “AARP Maine is concerned about the continued reliability and affordability of basic landline telephone service for all Mainers. When POLR is deregulated, the statutory guarantee that basic landline service at a low price and high quality is replaced with the competitive market.”

Angelynne Amores, Director of Corporate Communications for Fairpoint, commented, “FairPoint will continue to provide basic, affordable landline service throughout Maine. FairPoint is not eliminating or taking away basic landline service – anywhere in Maine.” She confirmed the change only affects those Fairpoint customers with basic landline service, not bundled services.