CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Altice USA, the parent company of one of West Virginia’s leading internet providers, has come to an agreement with the state to settle numerous consumer complaints. Attorney General Patrick Morrisey announced the settlement on Friday, revealing that Altice USA will be investing an additional $40 million in infrastructure upgrades in West Virginia by 2027. Additionally, the company will provide $4 million in credits to customers’ accounts and pay the state $500,000.
Despite entering into this settlement, Altice USA has not admitted any wrongdoing under the state Consumer Credit and Protection Act. Morrisey expressed satisfaction with the resolution, stating, “This is years in the making and a big win for the consumers in West Virginia.”
Operating in West Virginia under the Optimum brand, Altice USA was previously known as Suddenlink Communications. In 2022, Suddenlink faced a $2.2 million fine from the state Public Service Commission for various infractions. The PSC’s investigation revealed that Suddenlink had been neglecting customer complaints, reducing full-time employees, maintenance work, and budget, as well as altering its customer communication methods.
An official statement from Morrisey’s office highlighted that Altice USA has already invested $75 million in infrastructure upgrades in West Virginia since 2021. To ensure completion of the current upgrades by 2027, Altice USA could face additional fines of up to $40 million.
Under the terms of the settlement, current customers meeting certain criteria will receive $25 credits on their accounts. Former customers will have the opportunity to submit a claim to determine their eligibility for a cash refund.
