CenturyTel-Embarq merger in works

Today, the Public Counsel Section of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office joined a multi-party settlement agreement in the proposed merger of CenturyTel and Embarq. The settlement recommends that the state Utilities and Transportation Commission approve the merger subject to a set of conditions to protect consumers served by the phone companies.

“The proposed settlement includes conditions sought by Public Counsel and UTC staff that help address our concerns about how this merger may negatively impact CenturyTel and Embarq customers,” Assistant Attorney General Sarah Shifley said.

Public Counsel represents residential and small-business customers before the UTC, which is considering the merger request. UTC’s staff recommendation is not binding on the commission.  For more information, see today's news release.