Fischer Applauds FCC's Efforts in Returning Lifeline Program Decisions to States
Press Release
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, today praised the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for their decision to eliminate the federal designation process for broadband providers in the universal service Lifeline program.
"Nebraska families rely on the FCC Lifeline program to stay connected. I'm glad to see the FCC restore the program rules to what the law requires. State governments, not the FCC, should determine which carriers are best suited to participate in the Lifeline program. I thank Chairman Pai for his leadership in this effort. I look forward to working with him to ensure Nebraskans can access these critical services," said Fischer.
In February, Senator Fischer joined Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) in introducing the Preserving State Commission (PSC) Oversight Act. The bill would reinforce existing law and ensure that states have primary authority to determine which carriers participate in the FCC universal service Lifeline program. The Lifeline program provides phone and broadband service to Americans who cannot otherwise afford it.
The PSC Oversight Act would:
Reinforce the states' statutory authority to decide which carriers can participate in the Lifeline program.
Ensure that the carriers who offer service within the state are not engaging in waste, fraud, and abuse.
Direct the FCC to eliminate the regulations adopted in an April 2016 order. The regulations are inconsistent with a provision in the Communications Act, which says that primary authority to designate companies to participate in the Lifeline program lies with the states
Rep. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) will introduce companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
In June 2016, Senator Fischer, along with nine other senators and fifteen U.S. representatives, sent a letter to FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler raising concerns with FCC actions on the Lifeline program. Among these was a concern about a FCC regulation preempting state authority on carrier decisions.
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