Who started Lifeline phone program?

Who started Lifeline phone program?

Accordingly, in 1985, the FCC established its Lifeline Service to provide discounted local phone service to low-income consumers. This program was adopted under the generic powers afforded to the FCC under the 1934 Act. When Congress overhauled the Communications Act in 1996, it made two important changes.

When was Lifeline program started?

1985
The Lifeline Program was started in 1985 but took its present form in 1997 under the Telecommunications Act of 1996. The act addressed new challenges and opportunities of the digital information age, with the goal of promoting universal service. The act set out some immediate priorities of universal service.

What is the government phone program called?

Assurance Wireless is a federal Lifeline Assistance program. Lifeline is a government assistance program. The Assurance Wireless offer provides eligible low-income customers free monthly data, unlimited texting, and free monthly minutes. Plus a free phone.

Is the Obama phone program still available?

Lifeline Assistance no longer provides free cell phones alongside their discounted services. But you may find that some of the wireless providers offering free plans through the Lifeline program still offer a free cell phone or free SIM kit.

Is lifeline and Obama phone the same?

Lifeline Facts Lifeline began under the Reagan administration to help low-income Americans afford their landline phone service, and was updated during the Bush administration to include mobile phones. Lifeline was nicknamed Obamaphone since the popularity of the program exploded under the Obama Administration.

Is SafeLink and lifeline the same?

SafeLink Wireless is proud to offer LifeLine service, a program that enables qualifying customers to receive discounts on monthly telephone service. In our version of the program, you will receive free cellular service, a SIM card, and the assurance that you will get no bills and no contracts EVER!

What did the 1996 telecommunications Act do?

The act significantly reduced regulations on media concentration and cross-ownership of media outlets. This deregulation led to less competition and allowed such companies as AOL/Time-Warner and Viacom to purchase multiple media outlets in local markets.

Who contributes to the Universal Service Fund?

This revenue is deposited into a central fund, from which the USAC distributes money to the four central services at the core of the USF: High Cost, Low Income, Schools and Libraries, and Rural Health Care. Providers of telecommunication services are legally required to contribute to the Universal Service Fund.

Does SafeLink still give free phones?

Eligible WellCare members can get a free smartphone, with free text messages, data and minutes each month. The smartphone gives members easy access to: Care support.