This message is sent to Verizon retirees in Texas on behalf of Steve Banta, Group President – Northwest & Southwest Regions and Sheila Lau, President – Texas Market Area.

As the current Texas legislative session came to a close, May 31, lawmakers were unable to reach a compromise on an agreement that would have made it easier for Verizon and other telephone companies to sell video services in our state.

We regret the legislature did not have enough time to reach a compromise. A statewide video franchise would have brought about genuine competition for video services more quickly than the current time-consuming process that favors the monopoly cable providers.

We will continue to pursue franchise agreements at the local level to give consumers meaningful choices and to battle for equal footing in the marketplace and more choices for consumers.

We want to thank our employees and retirees for their quick response to our recent grassroots efforts. Your voices were heard, and you helped our efforts in Austin. As we continue to forge franchise agreements in cities across Texas, we may call upon you again for your support at the local level.