California regulators approve Charter-Cox merger

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has unanimously approved the $34.5 billion merger of Cox Communications into Charter Communications. This decision serves as the final regulatory hurdle for the consolidation, which is expected to close next week.

The merger will establish Charter’s Spectrum as the dominant broadband and cable provider in Southern California, covering regions such as Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Bakersfield. The deal also positions Charter as the largest cable company in the United States, surpassing Comcast Corp.

To protect consumers and advance digital equity, the CPUC imposed several enforceable conditions and settlement agreements. Key commitments include:

• A $275 million investment to upgrade California networks to symmetrical one-gigabit service within three years. • New affordable broadband offerings for low-income residents, including multiple LifeLine service tiers. • A $30 million investment in digital inclusion, literacy training, and device access. • Five years of free broadband and Wi-Fi for 50 community anchor institutions, such as schools and libraries. • $5 million for Community Development Financial Institutions to support underserved small businesses.