TALLAHASSEE —
The Florida Public Service Commission’s (PSC) annual report
on Lifeline Assistance (Lifeline) shows consumers continue
to need the federal discount telephone program. As of June
30, 957,792 eligible Florida telecommunications customers
participated in the Lifeline program, a 4.3 percent increase
from last year’s subscribers. The
PSC also continues to increase awareness among eligible
citizens and to educate residents on the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) rule changes limiting benefits to one discount
per eligible household and requiring annual recertification
to continue the benefit. As in past years, the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest
qualifying program for Lifeline Assistance in Florida.
Based upon June 2014 SNAP participants, however, the
Lifeline eligible households decreased by 1.2 percent
compared to 2013 data, which may reflect the improving
Florida economy. “Lifeline is an important program,
enablingconsumers to find jobs,
access health care services, connect with family and their
children"s schools, and call for help in an emergency,”
said PSC Chairman Art Graham. “The PSC continues
to focus on the enrollment process and outreach to make sure
consumers who need Lifeline can easily get it.”
In Florida, 22 telecommunication companies,
including four wireless carriers, participate in the federal Lifeline program offering
customers who participate in certain public assistance programs a discount of
at least $9.25 per month, or a free Lifeline cell phone and monthly minutes from
certain wireless providers. Applying for Lifeline is easy. Florida residents can call their local phone
company, the PSC at 1-800-342-3552, or the Office of Public Counsel at 1-800-540-7039
for assistance. Information is also available at http://www.floridapsc.com/
and www.floridaopc.gov/lifeline.cfm.
The
PSC’s Lifeline Reportwas sent to the Governor
and Legislature this week, as required by Section 364.10, Florida Statutes. For additional information, visit
http://www.floridapsc.com/.
Follow the PSC on Twitter,
@floridapsc.
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