California Public Utilities Commission Seeks Reconsideration of FCC Lifeline Decision

On November 20, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission issued Order DA 25-965 (Order) revoking California’s long-standing waiver related to the use of the National Lifeline Accountability Database (NLAD) and federal eligibility determinations. We respectfully request that the FCC reconsider the Order. California’s enrollment and eligibility process fully meets the federal rules requiring a Social Security Number (SSN) of all applicants participating in the federal program. The CPUC stands ready to collaborate with the FCC to ensure delivery of an accurate, consumer-centered Lifeline program that meets both state and federal objectives. The CPUC also provides the following clarifications regarding the Order’s factual inaccuracies and assumptions, and concerns about the operational impact on California’s 1.8 million LifeLine participants - over 98% of whom rely on both state and federal Lifeline to afford their phone service.