AUGUSTA — A bill that would phase out the requirement that FairPoint Communications provide price-controlled landline telephone service is moving forward after winning the support of AARP.

The consumer group had raised concerns that the bill would allow the company to charge higher rates or abandon some customers who depend on landline telephone service. But the group decided to support the bill after it was amended to provide stronger consumer protections.

The bill would remove a requirement that the company provide landline service in seven cities: Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, South Portland, Auburn, Biddeford and Sanford. The company could do the same for five additional communities every six months until a cap of 22 communities is reached.

The Legislature’s Energy, Utilities, and Technology Committee endorsed the bill on Monday.