Verizon recently applied for a video license with the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers to offer consumers in Providence, North Providence, Foster, Scituate, Cranston, Johnston, Charlestown, Hopkinton, Narragansett, Richmond, South Kingstown and Westerley a choice for cable TV.  Once a franchise is granted, consumers will finally have a choice for cable TV.

We appreciate your interest in bringing more TV choice to Rhode Island.  If you would like to voice your support for more competition, please send a letter to DPUC officials.  Verizon is eager to bring the future of technology to Rhode Island.  If you have any questions, please contact Lillian McGee at lillian.m.mcgee@verizon.com.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to ask the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers to support Verizon's application for a video license in service areas 2, 3 and 8 because I want more choice for cable TV. An approval of this application will introduce much-needed competition to the monopoly cable industry and will keep prices in check for the first time in decades.

Studies show that cable rates drop where there is wireline competition. In Rhode Island, I have had no competition for wireline cable service, and have watched my cable bills escalate. Meanwhile, I have seen the price of other new technologies such as my cell phone and Internet service decrease. I believe these rate hikes are related to the fact that cable companies have no competition. As a result, they have no motivation to lower prices or improve service.

Verizon has invested in Rhode Island by installing its advanced fiber optic network, which offers video, Internet and voice services. Verizon not only is ready to offer us an alternative to cable, but also will provide Rhode Island consumers with a broader channel line up, more HDTV offerings, and thousands of shows and movies on demand, all at competitive prices.

The people of Rhode Island deserve the best technology available along with a choice for video services. Please move quickly to issue Verizon a video license so Rhode Island consumers in service areas 2, 3 and 8 can take advantage of benefits of this network and competition.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
September 25, 2006