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Committee backs SB 716 to extend a state Lifeline subsidy to home internet; industry questions funding
Summary
SB 716 would create a Home Internet Lifeline program allowing eligible households to apply a subsidy toward home broadband plans capped at roughly $11 out-of-pocket; the committee approved the bill after amendments but wireless and broadband trade groups raised concerns about funding equity.
The Assembly Communications and Conveyance Committee approved SB 716, author Sen. Durazo’s measure to create a state Home Internet Lifeline program that allows eligible low-income households to use a subsidy toward home broadband service. The committee adopted amendments and sent the bill to the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
Sen. Durazo framed the bill as a response to the end of the federal Affordable Connectivity Program and to persisting affordability barriers. “Nearly one in three families in California can't count on reliable home Internet for the kids to do schoolwork,” Durazo said, and described SB 716 as letting…
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