Senators to FCC: No Lifeline Disconnections During Coronavirus Pandemic
As families face new financial hardships, Senators call on FCC to keep Americans connected
[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and Brian Schatz (D-HI), called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure that no eligible American is disconnected from the Lifeline assistance program during the coronavirus pandemic. Since 1985, the FCC’s Lifeline program has made basic internet and telephone service more affordable for low-income Americans. However, far too many eligible individuals are denied access or disconnected due to technicalities and unnecessary procedural hurdles.
“The coronavirus and resulting public safety measures taken by states, municipalities, and vigilant citizens are a resounding demonstration of the importance of Lifeline and other FCC assistance programs.” the Senators wrote in a letter to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai. “We strongly urge the FCC to commit that no one loses access to Lifeline at this time of crisis.”
Noting the new hardships facing many households due to business closures and reduced hours, the Senators encouraged the FCC to ensure that the public knows that Lifeline assistance is available: “The Commission should also take swift steps to provide information about Lifeline to the public and ensure carriers more aggressively advertise their Lifeline services to all eligible individuals. Americans must know that help is available.”
The full text of the letter is available here.
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