NHMC Calls for Significant Modernization of Lifeline in FCC Filings

The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) filed comments urging the Federal Communications Commission to expeditiously modernize Lifeline to help make broadband more affordable for low-income consumers. NHMC has been an ardent and tireless supporter of Lifeline, participating in numerous FCC proceedings on the issue and testifying before Congress multiple times.

In its comments, NHMC:

  • detailed the struggles our communities face when they are unable to obtain access to broadband
  • described how Lifeline is perfectly situated to reach those most in need
  • proposed that the FCC adopt minimum standards for certain service plans offered under Lifeline that are capable of evolving with the market and technology
  • rejected calls to place a cap or strict budget on the program that is currently utilized by only about a quarter to a third of eligible households
  • applauded the FCC for quickly embracing its legal authority under Title II of the Communications Act of 1934, which it recently asserted in its Net Neutrality proceeding, to propose full support for broadband Internet access services through Lifeline.

NHMC Calls for Significant Modernization of Lifeline in FCC Filings