Nevada and Texas have dropped out of the multistate lawsuit seeking to block the T-Mobile-Sprint merger, now pending before the Southern District of New York (Judge Victor Marrero).
Nevada attorney general Aaron Ford said the commitments the state has gotten from T-Mobile and Sprint include a "philanthropic contribution" of $30 million in three installments "to enhance service to our Native American Tribal communities, contribute to programs that enhance opportunities for minorities, women and small businesses." That is in addition to commitments on 5G network buildouts, low-priced mobile plans for six years, job commitments and a broadband access education effort.
Related: Arkansas Drops Out of T-Mobile-Sprint Suit
Texas attorney general Ken Paxton said the settlement "ensures that the New T-Mobile is not in a position to overcharge Texans for wireless service, and at the same time, obligates the New T-Mobile to invest in a high-quality 5G network that will serve the needs of Texas’ growing economy, or face stiff financial penalties.”
According to Paxton's office, the agreement will:
"Give all Texas customers access to the same or better unlimited talk, text, and data rate plans as those offered by T-Mobile as of the date of the agreement for the next five years;
"Give all Texas customers access to T-Mobile limited data rate plans at a cost far below what is currently offered in the industry;
"Commit to provide 5G wireless broadband coverage to areas where most Texans live, including most Texans living in rural portions of the state within the next three years and to expand that 5G coverage dramatically within the next six years; and
"Offer Texas residents that are currently employed by Sprint and T-Mobile substantially similar employment with the New T-Mobile."
T-Mobile and Sprint have pledged not to close their deal until the state AG suit is resolved. The deal has been approved by the FCC and passed antitrust muster--with conditions--at the Justice Department.
