South Raleigh News

Attorney General Josh Stein has called on major cell service and internet providers to assist residents of western North Carolina who are recovering from Hurricane Helene. Stein urged these companies to provide unlimited data and high-speed internet access, as well as reimburse customers for charges incurred during service outages.

Stein acknowledged the efforts made by providers to restore services in affected areas but emphasized the need for further support. "I appreciate that many cell and internet providers have been hard at work to restore services in the mountains, and many communities are back online," he stated. "But the people of western North Carolina need more help."

The Attorney General is advocating for free, high-speed mobile internet and cell data for at least two billing cycles. He also requested reimbursement for charges when customers were unable to use their phones due to the storm. "This recovery is going to be long and expensive, and we all need to do everything we can to support our neighbors in western North Carolina," Stein added.

Residents faced significant challenges during the hurricane, including power outages and lack of internet access, which hindered their ability to receive critical updates from authorities. The Attorney General's Office reported instances where individuals had to pay steep prices for high-speed internet on their phones.

A copy of Stein's letter detailing these requests is available.