Deadline Set for Comments on FCC’s Lifeline Reform
Stakeholders have until May 4 to weigh in on proposed anti-fraud and eligibility rules.
WASHINGTON, April 3, 2026 - The Federal Communications Commission has set a deadline of May 4 for initial comments on its proposal to curb fraud, tighten eligibility requirements and improve oversight of its Lifeline program.
The deadlines stem from a proposed rulemaking adopted Feb. 18, launching a comprehensive review of the federal subsidy designed to make communications services more affordable for low-income subscribers.
The rulemaking follows an FCC inspector general report that found roughly $5 million in Lifeline payments were issued to about 117,000 deceased subscribers over five years, prompting calls for stronger safeguards.
