Bill > AB1409

This bill aims to modernize and expand access to the state's lifeline program, which provides subsidized telephone service to low-income individuals, by allowing providers using newer technologies like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to participate and receive reimbursement from the Universal Lifeline Telephone Service Trust Administrative Committee Fund. Specifically, it directs the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to adopt rules by June 1, 2014, that do not prevent or delay alternative providers of voice communications, including those using VoIP, from joining the lifeline program, and ensures they are reimbursed on a fair basis. The bill also mandates an expedited process for these alternative providers to apply for participation and for telephone corporations to obtain or keep their certificates of public convenience and necessity, which are authorizations to operate, even if they offer VoIP or other unregulated services. The bill also amends existing fee structures for certain applications to the PUC and repeals an outdated section related to these fees. The urgency clause explains that immediate implementation is necessary to ensure that qualifying individuals can access essential communication services, especially for contacting social services and emergency responders, and to allow telecommunications providers to offer these services.