Goodbye Copper Lines: FCC Proposal Accelerates POTS Sunset 

For decades, Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) lines—those dependable copper connections—have powered everything from emergency call systems to elevator phones and alarm panels. But the FCC is taking a decisive step toward eliminating the regulatory friction that has slowed their retirement. 

The agency’s recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking from July 2025 signals a clear intention: remove most procedural requirements for carriers who want to discontinue copper-based services and migrate customers to modern, all-IP networks. 

What the FCC Proposal Would Do 

According to the FCC’s draft rulemaking: 

• Eliminate filing requirements for network change disclosures, and potentially forbear from all such disclosures entirely. This means carriers could shut down copper facilities without the same level of public filings or transparency as before. 

• Simplify the discontinuance process by replacing the Adequate Replacement Test and Alternative Options Test with a single, consolidated rule. The FCC is considering approaches that could include: 

• Granting broad forbearance from discontinuance obligations under section 214(a) of the Communications Act, or 

• Codifying targeted rule changes that were previously granted as temporary relief. 

• Remove the “grandfathering” application requirement for carriers who maintain certain legacy services over copper. This relief could be expanded to all situations in which a carrier intends to discontinue such service—significantly reducing procedural hurdles. 

In plain English? The red tape that once slowed copper retirements is being cut—and in some cases, eliminated entirely. 

What It Means 

Less notice, less oversight, faster shutdowns. 
This proposal is part of a larger FCC effort to modernize U.S. communications infrastructure by replacing outdated copper with fiber-based and wireless systems under it’s “Build America” Agenda. While that can bring long-term benefits, it also means: 

• Shorter transition windows – If you still depend on POTS for alarms, elevator phones, or fax machines, you could lose service with minimal lead time. 

• No guaranteed replacement testing – Without the Adequate Replacement Test, carriers may swap out copper for newer services without proving that replacements meet the same reliability standards. 

• Increased business disruption risk – Critical safety and compliance systems could be affected without ample time to adapt. 

Next Steps 

The FCC is moving toward a “notify and retire” approach for copper lines. With filing requirements eased, procedural safeguards reduced, and carrier flexibility increased, the era of POTS is ending faster than many expected. 

If your business still relies on copper for any essential function, the time to plan is now—not when a short notice letter lands in your mailbox or inbox. 

Don’t wait until the lines go dark. 
Start your transition today with expert guidance: 
Contact Rise Tech Advisors →