Matsui Statement on FCC Plan to Reform Lifeline Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, January 9, 2012

CONTACT: ALANA JUTEAU
(202) 225-7163

Matsui Statement on FCC Plan to Reform Lifeline Program

Today, in response to FCC Chairman Genachowski's announcement of his plans to reform the Lifeline program, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) released the following statement:

"I applaud the FCC's on-going efforts to modernize the Universal Service Fund. The current Lifeline and Link-up programs should be reformed to prevent any waste and abuse from occurring, while continuing to ensure low-income Americans receive the assistance they need to communicate with everyone from their friends and families to their doctors and jobs.

"Additionally, as the FCC continues its work to transition the Universal Service Fund to broadband, I believe the FCC should expand the Lifeline Assistance program for universal broadband adoption. This specific reform would enable low-income households to have access to affordable broadband services and connect with the increasingly digital American economy.

"I look forward to continuing to work with Chairman Genochowski and the FCC on modernizing the USF program to the benefit of all Americans."

Congresswoman Matsui is a member of the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology. Her legislation, the Broadband Affordability Act of 2011, would follow the Lifeline program model in order to provide affordable in-home Internet to low-income Americans.

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