Public Interest Groups Weigh In on Lifeline/LinkUp Reform

The National Hispanic Media Coalition, the Media Action Grassroots Network, the Office of Communication of the United Church of Christ, the Benton Foundation, and Access Humboldt have filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission urging that reforms to the Lifeline and Link Up programs are necessary to ensure that all eligible individuals -- especially among the poor and people of color -- can obtain the opportunities that these programs provide.

The commenters have already emphasized the importance of broadband in low-wealth communities and communities of color, and have recommended that the low-income programs include broadband subsidies and an update of their current outreach initiatives. They commenters note that many commenters agree with these recommendations. In addition, the groups urge that eligibility and verification processes be made as inclusive as possible and that those processes facilitate -- not inadvertently hinder -- participation in these programs by those most in need. Finally, the commenters reaffirm that current outreach efforts are insufficient and respond to those that suggest otherwise.