Bipartisan Congressional Efforts Reach Verizon

Montana’s congressional delegation recently issued statements claiming success in helping to convince Verizon Wireless not to expel numerous users across rural Montana from their cell service. Verizon had initially stated they would terminate the contracts of rural customers who used too much data, despite these customers having an unlimited contract through Verizon.

Congressman Greg Gianforte said in a press release, “Verizon’s decision to reverse its plan to cancel contracts and leave hundreds of Montanans without cell service is a win for our communities. Folks shouldn’t be left without this critical service they rely on, particularly in our rural areas. It’s a fundamental issue of safety.”

According to that same release, Gianforte started receiving complaints about the cancelled cell service in mid-September, and the Congressman immediately began working with a bipartisan group of legislators and Verizon in an effort to reverse the decision.

In a separate release, Senator Jon Tester said, “Wireless communication is critical for Montana families, businesses and emergency first responders. I am pleased with Verizon’s decision to uphold its commitment to our state. If any Verizon customers have continued concerns, please contact my office. I will continue to defend Montanans from harmful actions that undermine our quality of life.”

In that same release Tester’s office stated that they had received assurances from Verizon that no Montanans will be involuntarily removed from their contract in the future.