On September 13, 2019, NTCA filed reply comments stating that commenters universally supported NTCA's Petition for Waiver of the scheduled December 1, 2019, increase in minimum service standards for Lifeline subscribers. NTCA and commenters noted that requiring Lifeline subscribers to a higher speed Internet service would likely result in some Lifeline subscribers disconnecting their service due to inability to afford the increased cost of service. NTCA requested the Commission allow Lifeline subscribers the option of choosing to subscribe to broadband service at the current minimum services standard or to any updated minimum services standard established by the Commission in the future.
Lifeline and Link Up Reform and Modernization, WT Docket No. 11-42; Telecommunications Carriers Eligible for Universal Service Support, WC Docket No. 09-197; Connect America Fund, WC Docket No. 10-90