Verizon Stands Proud Behind Supporting Statewide Hands-Free Legislation

         Hands-free Devices Can Help Consumers Drive More Responsibly

    BEDMINSTER, N.J., May 21 Verizon Wireless has supported
legislation in eight states and has testified at more than 30 state hearings
on the issue of requiring the in-vehicle use of wireless handsets while
driving.  The company, serving more customers than any other wireless
provider, took a powerful stance back in September of 2000 by becoming the
first wireless carrier to support statewide hands-free legislation in
Illinois.  To date, the company has announced support for the same type of
legislation in New York, Massachusetts, California, Rhode Island, Missouri,
New Jersey and Connecticut.
    
    Verizon Wireless will support legislation that exempts emergency calls;
imposes a three-year phase-in period of the law; and legislation that is
statewide.

    "In states where there is both a public and political will to enact such
legislation, Verizon Wireless will support legislation that provides time for
the public to adopt hands-free technologies," said Denny Strigl, president and
CEO of Verizon Wireless. "Verizon Wireless' support of statewide legislation
speaks to our long-standing commitment to educate consumers in communities
across the country about responsible driving."

    This forward-thinking position is part of the company's "Drive
responsibly. Call with care." initiative, which promotes the responsible
in-vehicle use of wireless phones through enhancing the affordability,
availability and awareness of hands-free devices.