The FCC has adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) seeking comment on changes to the Lifeline Program to “strengthen the integrity” of the program through reforms including restricting benefits to qualified aliens and U.S. citizens, enhancing requirements to ensure that only living citizens qualify for support, defining minimum data capacity and speeds for Lifeline supported broadband services, streamlining Lifeline rules, and more. In light of recent findings of Lifeline fraud and abuse, the proceeding aims to ensure that those who receive Lifeline support are legally and lawfully eligible for the program.
