OUR PRACTICE

We represent telecommunications providers before state public utility commissions in all aspects of regulation. The ongoing transition from traditional circuit-switched landline networks to wireless and IP-based systems has altered our clients’ needs at the state level. For incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs), we address issues related to state rate-setting processes, service quality regulations, customer complaints, and approvals of corporate acquisitions. For ILECs, wireless providers, and other market participants, the states now play a central role in securing broadband development funding available from federal programs, including the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) and Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF). We offer assistance to clients with these state processes, and also have experience negotiating franchises with local governments and providing telecommunications-specific business advice, such as developing mission-critical business contracts and resolving carrier-to-carrier disputes.

Bill Magness, our lead telecommunications attorney, has represented telecommunications clients in proceedings before state commissions and courts in eighteen states and U.S. territories. 

McDowell Rackner Gibson’s attorneys understand the interlocking frameworks of state and federal laws and regulations that govern the telecommunications industry.