The USHBC Urges CPUC to Approve Charter-Cox Merger to Strengthen Connectivity for California Small Businesses
February 20, 2026 | Washington, D.C.
The United States Hispanic Business Council (USHBC) today formally urged the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to approve the proposed merger between Charter Communications and Cox Communications, citing the transaction’s importance to broadband reliability, infrastructure investment, and small business growth across California.
In a letter sent to Commissioners John Reynolds and Darcie Houck, and copied to CPUC leadership, USHBC President & CEO Javier Palomarez emphasized that broadband is no longer a luxury, it is essential infrastructure that powers commerce, enables workforce participation, and connects entrepreneurs to customers and suppliers.
The proposed Charter–Cox merger, the letter states, represents a forward looking investment in California’s digital future that will strengthen competition, improve network resiliency, and support the continued growth of the state’s small business community.
Why This Matters for Small Businesses
Small businesses throughout California depend on reliable, affordable connectivity to operate, compete, and grow.
The USHBC highlighted several key benefits of the merger:
Strengthened broadband reliability and network resiliency
Increased infrastructure investment and network upgrades
Expanded access to affordable, flexible service options
Transparent pricing without hidden fees or long term contracts
Enhanced competition against national and emerging providers
The letter notes that timely approval will provide regulatory certainty, accelerate infrastructure deployment, and deliver meaningful benefits to California consumers and entrepreneurs. Conversely, unnecessary delay risks slowing innovation and limiting the ability of providers to respond to evolving technological and economic demands.
Statement from Javier Palomarez, President & CEO
“Reliable broadband is essential infrastructure for small businesses across California, especially in rural and underserved communities,” said Palomarez. “The Charter–Cox merger represents a meaningful opportunity to strengthen network reliability, expand access to affordable services, and ensure that California’s entrepreneurs remain competitive in an increasingly digital economy.”
The USHBC encourages California business owners, community leaders, and stakeholders to submit public comments to the CPUC under Proceeding A2507016.
Public comments can be submitted directly through the CPUC’s docket system. Visit the CPUC proceeding page and click “Add Public Comment” to submit your support here.
Read the Full Letter
The full text of the letter submitted to the California Public Utilities Commission is available here.
To learn more, follow @myushbc and @JPalomarez on X.
Visit ushbc.com/join to become a member today.
About the USHBC
Javier Palomarez is the President & CEO of the United States Hispanic Business Council (USHBC). The USHBC is a leading voice for the small business community. A 501(c)6 non-profit organization, the USHBC focuses on the success of American small businesses by ensuring they have a voice in the national dialogue. The USHBC is a nonpartisan organization.
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