Rep Matsui Calls on FCC to Expand Internet Access for Low-Income Communities During COVID-19 Outbreak

Rep Doris Matsui (D-CA) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai, urging him to expand the Lifeline program for millions of Americans lacking broadband access amidst the COVID-19 outbreak. In light of recent school closures and the need for remote learning capabilities, Rep Matsui is once again advocating for expanded access to Lifeline services. She wrote, "Specifically, I encourage you to explore measures to grant provisional approvals for Lifeline subscribers as they become eligible directly or via qualifying support programs. Navigating the Lifeline application process for the first time can be confusing and timely. Moreover, waiting for benefits to initiate is a luxury many students and workers cannot afford. To ensure there is service capacity to meet the increase in demand, temporary waivers or modifications to the FCC’s current approach to determining Eligible Telecommunications Carrier status may need to be revisited, as has been done in previous emergencies, and the FCC should explore this option immediately. Additionally, I request that the FCC take additional steps to promote awareness of the Lifeline program in coordination with other federal assistance programs so that newly eligible Americans are able to take advantage of this program throughout this public health crisis."