COLUMBUS, OHIO – Access to local emergency services and community support is vital to all Ohioans. The Lifeline program can help low-income consumers connect to these crucial resources. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) is encouraging eligible residents to apply for Lifeline during Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week (September 11 – 15, 2023).
“No household should be without communications service. Cost can be a barrier to access, which is why the Lifeline program is so important,” said PUCO Chair Jenifer French.
Under the federal Lifeline program, consumers who participate in certain public assistance programs or qualify based on income can receive a discount of $5.25 off their voice only telephone service. Consumers can receive a $9.25 discount for broadband and broadband bundled services that meet minimum service standards. More information on program eligibility and rules is available on the PUCO’s Lifeline web resource.
In 2021, the Federal Communications Commission implemented a new program – the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP provides eligible households up to a $30/month discount for broadband services. Current Lifeline participants are automatically eligible, but they still need to select a provider and eligible ACP plan to receive the benefit. The PUCO does not regulate broadband service providers.
The PUCO regulates basic local exchange service (BLES). BLES is a flat-rate landline phone service which provides, among other things, access to a dial tone, 9-1-1 and long-distance service. Other telecommunication services, such as mobile or internet services, are not regulated by the PUCO. More information about the PUCO’s role in the telecommunications industry is available here.