CPUC Updates LifeLine as Pandemic Shows Broadband Need
Revised low-income subsidy amounts and standards adopted unanimously by the California Public Utilities Commission will increase free and low-cost mobile broadband for state LifeLine participants, the CPUC said Thursday. The proposal in docket R.20-02-008 adds options for higher mobile data…
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buckets and subsidies for VoIP bundled with fixed broadband. The commission estimated the decision will reduce LifeLine costs by up to $9.2 million yearly by cutting subsidies for wireline measured rate plans. The order requires providers to change to flat rate plans. President Marybel Batjer urged the state’s five largest broadband companies to participate “so all low-income Californians have improved -- if not free -- affordable, high speed connections.” The decision “brings broadband service for the first time into our LifeLine proceeding as the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the importance of broadband access for all Californians,” said Commissioner Genevieve Shiroma. Carriers resisted CPUC changes as the FCC mulls federal Lifeline minimum increases (see 2009250043).