The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society reports…
The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society joined Access Humboldt, Common Sense Media, Everyone On, Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, National Digital Inclusion Alliance, New America’s Open Technology Institute, and Public Knowledge (all members of the Lifeline Coalition*) in a filing in the Federal Communications Commission’s RE: DELETE, DELETE, DELETE proceeding.
They offer four proposals…
- Delete the Sunset of Support for Voice-Only Services. The Commission should reverse its proposal to end support for voice-only phone service under Lifeline. Many vulnerable populations—especially seniors and those in rural areas—continue to rely on traditional voice services for essential communication, including access to emergency services. Ending support for voice-only plans would reduce the program’s flexibility and leave many participants without a reliable option. Preserving this support ensures Lifeline remains true to its name.
- Delete Administrative Burdens by Connecting Eligibility Databases. To improve access and reduce administrative burdens, the Commission should streamline the Lifeline enrollment process by connecting state eligibility databases—such as those used for SNAP—to the National Verifier. Automating eligibility verification through these data connections would make enrollment faster, more accurate, and less dependent on paperwork. The Commission should work with states to ensure that all relevant databases are integrated with the National Verifier. The more connections established, the fewer barriers applicants face, effectively “deleting” some of the most cumbersome and time-consuming aspects of the program.
- Delete Outdated Restrictions on the Lifeline Benefit. Connectivity has changed dramatically since Lifeline was established over 40 years ago. Today, full participation in society requires access to both home broadband and mobile data services. To reflect this reality, the Commission should update Lifeline’s benefit structure to allow simultaneous support for both fixed broadband and wireless service. The monthly benefit amount should also be increased to account for modern service costs. Additionally, the Commission should explore allowing multiple benefits for qualifying households, such as those with parents and school-aged children who need to communicate while in separate locations.
- Delete Barriers to ISP Participation in Lifeline. To expand the reach of Lifeline, the Commission should reduce barriers that prevent internet service providers (ISP) from participating. Currently, ISPs must obtain an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) designation, which is generally granted on a state-by-state basis and can be difficult to secure. This regulatory hurdle discourages provider participation, especially for those looking to offer Lifeline services exclusively. The Commission should establish an alternative federal-level pathway for ISPs who wish to participate solely in Lifeline, enabling broader participation and greater consumer choice.