Rep Matsui Leads Letter Calling on FCC to Expand Flexibility for Internet Connectivity Support During the Pandemic

Rep Doris Matsui (D-CA) sent a letter to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai, urging him to support expanded flexibility in the Lifeline program to help low-income consumers stay connected to voice and internet service during the COVID-19 pandemic. In early June, the FCC provided new flexibility to allow some Lifeline service providers to voluntarily initiate service before a consumer's application paperwork has been finalized. However, this new Lifeline flexibility was limited to rural Tribal areas. While rural Tribal areas continue to experience a disproportionate and unacceptable lack of broadband access, the approach taken by the waiver could also provide needed connectivity in other areas suffering from the effects of COVID-19. Many newly unemployed Americans in urban areas also face barriers in completing or filing application paperwork due to closures or social distancing practices to slow the spread of COVID-19. Rep Matsui is calling on the FCC to expand this flexibility waiver across the Lifeline program to support all struggling Americans.