WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 786

AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE PUBLIC UTILITIES REGULATORY AUTHORITY TO DESIGNATE ELIGIBLE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CARRIERS FOR THE PURPOSES OF FEDERAL LIFELINE SERVICE BENEFITS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Berthel

Connecticut grants PURA authority to designate telecom carriers eligible for federal Lifeline subsidies, shifting state-level control over low-income phone/internet service provision.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Energy and Technology
#cellulartelephones #lifelineandtelecommunicationsrelayserviceprograms #publicutilitiesregulatoryauthority #radio
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 786

Legislative bill overview

SB 786 grants Connecticut's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) the power to designate which telecommunications companies qualify as "Eligible Telecommunications Carriers" (ETCs) for the federal Lifeline program. The Lifeline program provides discounted phone and internet services to low-income households. This bill essentially delegates state-level authority over which carriers can participate in administering these federal subsidies.

Why is this important

The Lifeline program serves approximately 8.6 million Americans with subsidized telecommunications access—a critical service for vulnerable populations. Designating ETCs determines which companies can claim federal reimbursement for providing these discounted services, directly affecting service availability, pricing, and competition in Connecticut's low-income telecommunications market. Currently, the Federal Communications Commission handles much of this designation authority; this bill shifts more control to the state level.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory scope creep: Expands PURA's authority in ways that may overlap with federal FCC authority, potentially creating jurisdictional conflicts or duplicative oversight
  • Market competition concerns: State-level designation power could favor incumbent carriers over competitors or new market entrants, affecting service quality and innovation
  • Implementation burden: PURA may lack specific statutory guidance on designation criteria, standards, or timelines, creating uncertainty for carriers and potential legal challenges

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.