The FCC and the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, which has not always been on the same side of issues related to the Lifeline subsidy, are teaming up to raise awareness about the program.
Lifeline is the subsidy that helps eligible low-income consumers--on government food and health assistance, for example--get access to affordable broadband and phone service--up to $9.25 a month and up to $34.25 per month on tribal lands.
Related: FCC Extends Lifeline Waivers
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many newly unemployed people who may not be aware that they are eligible for the subsidy.
In a letter to NARUC members, FCC chairman Ajit Pai and NARUC president Brandon Presley, pointed to downloadable educational materials at lifelinesupport.org.
"We hope that your state commission can circulate this information as widely as possible to consumers and other Lifeline stakeholders," they wrote.
They also pointed out that the FCC has temporarily eased documentation requirements so that people can get the service and then establish eligibility.
