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Pennsylvanians Oppose Bell Atlantic and GTE Merger, Demand More Local Competition

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The proposed merger between Bell Atlantic and GTE, the two largest telephone companies in Pennsylvania, has faced strong opposition from residents across the Commonwealth. According to Pennsylvanians for Local Competition, a coalition of citizens and politicians, the merger would result in less competition, outdated service, and greater arrogance from a bigger monopoly. Telephone consumers have expressed their concerns and outrage through letters to Governor Ridge, state legislators, and the Public Utility Commission. The coalition has also organized public awareness campaigns, generating a significant response from the public.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 100,000 people have visited the Pennsylvanians for Local Competition website, showing widespread concern about the Bell Atlantic and GTE merger.
  • The Public Utility Commission has received testimony from numerous witnesses, including state legislators, who have overwhelmingly opposed the merger.
  • Consumers across the state are demanding the choice to select their local telephone company, rather than being limited to a single monopoly.
  • The proposed merger would result in a larger and less competitive telephone market, leading to continued outdated service and greater arrogance from the merged entity.
  • Pennsylvanians for Local Competition has helped hundreds of residents voice their concerns about the merger to state officials.
  • Former Senator William Lincoln, a spokesperson for the coalition, has emphasized that consumers are not just concerned, but outraged by the proposed merger.

Statistics:

  • 100,000+ people have visited the Pennsylvanians for Local Competition website.
  • Hundreds of Pennsylvanians have voiced their concerns about the merger to state officials through the coalition's efforts.
  • The majority of testimony from witnesses, including state legislators, has opposed the Bell Atlantic and GTE merger.

Sources:

  • UPI (United Press International) - "Telephone Consumers Oppose Proposed Merger"
  • Pennsylvanians for Local Competition (PLC) - Public awareness campaigns and testimony to the Public Utility Commission
  • COMTEX (http://www.comtexnews.com) - News Provider (no date specified)

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