Posted:
The Federal Communications Commission has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on the Lifeline program, which provides discounts on voice and broadband services for qualifying low-income Americans. Comments are due May 4, 2026.
The NPRM proposes reforms aimed at directing federal funds to eligible participants, strengthening program integrity, and streamlining program rules. The FCC is also seeking input on two accessibility questions specific to people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability: whether service providers should offer increased usage allowances for subscribers who rely on Video Relay Services and other bandwidth-intensive accessibility functions, and whether ending support for voice-only services through the program would affect access for people with disabilities.
Comments may be filed through the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System at fcc.gov/ecfs/filings. All filings must reference WC Docket Nos. 11-42, 17-287, 09-197, 21-450, and 20-445.
Individuals with disabilities who need assistance filing online may contact FCC504@fcc.gov. ASL users may call the FCC's ASL Consumer Support Line at (844) 432-2275 (videophone).
Learn more about the proposed changes to the lifeline program here.
