According to AT&T, the PUC's service metric is "inherently flawed" and should be eliminated given the "competitive market" in which it operates. Verizon, conversely, has argued that both networks are "healthy and reliable," so long as one doesn't base that assessment off of metrics employed by the PUC. The PUC however shot back, stating that regulated entities aren't allowed to dictate how government regulators may regulate them or by what metrics regulators can use: "All existing service measures and standards remain in place at this time, and cannot be simply disregarded at the regulated entity's request."

Moving forward, CAPUC will launch the investigation -- employing an independent investigator -- and report back regarding their "progress towards its completion" within six months. Within three months, the PUC will need to report its progress towards collecting funding from the two carriers.

[Image Credit: Associated Press]