Statement From Acting FCC Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn On Lifeline Awareness Week

Most of us take for granted that we can call 911 in a crisis and reach family, friends and employers when necessary. But for many low-income Americans, this basic necessity -- phone service – remains a luxury few can afford.

Ensuring access to communications for all Americans, regardless of income, is why Lifeline was launched in 1985 during the Reagan Administration, and why this commitment was codified by Congress in 1996. And that’s why the FCC has modernized and reformed Lifeline for today’s world of mobile communications while looking forward to the next challenge: providing affordable access to broadband. Lifeline Awareness Week is a time for us to appreciate what a lifeline the program has been for the neediest Americans – and to share our vision of a lifeline to jobs, education, health and opportunity through affordable broadband access for all.