The hassle of having more than one phone number may end for many following a ruling by the Federal Communications Commission forcing telecommunications companies to allow customers to transfer home or business phone numbers to a cell phone.

The ruling will also allow customers to keep their cell phone number when switching wireless companies, which has prevented people from switching companies in the past.

James Davies, freshman in art and design, said he was avoided switching wireless companies in the past because he didn’t want to lose his number.

“It’s irritating that I can’t change service without telling all my friends my new number,” Davies said. “I also don’t want as many restrictions put on me as a customer.”

The FCC ruling aims to give consumers more choices and forces communications companies to be more competitive with pricing and service.

Don Cochran of US Cellular applauded the ruling, saying it was made with the best interest of consumers in mind.

“We embrace this ruling because it’s great for our customers,” Cochran said. “It is certainly a positive.”

Cochran said the ruling is especially beneficial for those in college communities. He said college students are the most likely customers to “cut the cord” and use only a cell phone for communications. He also said the ruling helps those who do not want to deal with switching telephone numbers to get better service.

“People won’t have to decide how important their current number is,” Cochran said, adding phone companies no longer have that leverage over customers.

Kim Overbeck, senior in biology, said although she doesn’t own a cell phone, she agrees with the ruling.

“It’ll probably be a lot easier,” Overbeck said of having only one phone number.

She also said she thought the ruling would encourage more competitive pricing.

While many people like the option of using only a cell phone, Cochrane said there is still a need for landlines.

“I don’t think landlines will become obsolete,” Cochran said. “There’s probably a place for landlines and cell phones.”

The change took effect on Nov. 24 for customers living in the largest 100 metropolitan areas in the United States.

The changes will apply to the entire country March 24.