In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, Verizon proposes to eliminate reliable telephone service for some customers in New York and New Jersey. In “Hurricane AARP,” (Editorial, Aug. 8) The Post misstates AARP’s concerns.
We know most older telephone customers in New York and New Jersey have landlines. Many more rely on this service during power outages and emergencies. Unfortunately, Verizon’s Voice Link technology doesn’t work when the power is down or the battery is exhausted.
Landline service is a lifeline. It supports personal emergency-alert technologies, such as Life Alert, medical-monitoring devices and home-security systems. Voice Link, in most instances, does not. In addition, Voice Link does not support broadband, eliminating Internet options for Verizon’s customers and leaving them in a lurch.
AARP does not oppose new technology. We applaud innovation, but not at the cost of consumer protections and safety. Verizon should not deny consumers key features that have kept them safe for years.
That is why we support the FCC and the states’ authorities in taking a closer look at Voice Link technology. Consumers deserve nothing less. Beth Finkel
State Director
AARP New York
Manhattan