Chairman Wheeler's Response to Members of Congress Regarding GAO Lifeline Report

The Federal Communications Commission agrees with the Government Accountability Office report on the importance of evaluating whether the Lifeline program is achieving its goals. The 2015 Lifeline FNPRM & Order addressed the reforms highlighted by GAO which had not yet been fully realized and the challenges faced by subscribers and providers participating int he Lifeline program. We are pleased that the FCC's previous reforms have taken hold and resulted in a sustained, accountable program, but agree with GAO that the FCC's work is not compete. As a result, the FCC took further steps to continue the implementation of the four reforms highlighted by the GAO.

We recognize that the Lifeline program must continue to evolve to reflect the realities of the 21st Century communications marketplace in a way that ensures both the beneficiaries of the program, as well as those who pay into the universal service fund. The FCC and its staff appreciate the GAO's analysis and its recommendation. We look forward to continuing to work with the GAO and Congress in our efforts to reform and modernize the Lifeline program.