Internet For All Now
Recommendation to the FCC for the Broadband Lifeline Program
Endorsement Form – July 2015

Internet For All Now is urging the Federal Communications Commission to establish an affordable Broadband Lifeline Program through reform of the Universal Services Fund that addresses the 3 primary barriers to broadband adoption: (1) Cost; (2) Relevance; and (3) Digital Literacy. The following are the key components of an effective Broadband Lifeline Program:

• Establishment of an affordable high‐speed Internet service plan for all low‐income households offered by and through all broadband providers (in the $10/month range) with sufficient speeds and a wireless modem for compatibility with school‐issued devices. A Broadband Lifeline Program should augment Telephone Lifeline and not force consumers to choose between the two necessary technologies and programs.
• Capitalization of an independent fund to support community‐based organizations (CBOs), schools and libraries (as “trusted messengers”) to assist in enrolling eligible low‐income households and participate in true public‐private partnerships:
• Amount of capitalization and length of time set according to adopted goals for broadband adoption (such as 80% broadband adoption by 2020).
• Administered through state regulatory commissions that opt in (a multi‐state fund for rest of nation) with fund managers selected through an open, competitive process administered by an appropriate state agency.
• Performance‐based grants with accountability for results (subscriptions).
• Establishment of an oversight advisory body to ensure transparency and accountability with a broad base of stakeholders and community leaders knowledgeable about broadband adoption.

You are invited to support Internet For All Now and join the growing coalition of organizations and prominent civic leaders urging the FCC to adopt these recommendations by signing the form on the back.