On July 18, 2022, the FCC released the Notice of Inquiry (“NOI”) seeking comment on ways the FCC can modify its Lifeline or Affordable Connectivity Program (“ACP”) to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence, which was adopted at the July Open Meeting. The NOI seeks comment on:
- Whether survivors can receive emergency communications support thought the FCC’s affordability programs, regardless of whether the survivor meets the other eligible requirements. The NOI specifically asks how survivors would demonstrate their status and whether they should mandate a financial hardship showing.
- How the FCC should modify its Lifeline and ACP application and enrollment processes to serve survivors.
- The service and device needs of survivors.
- How to protect the call and text logs that may reflect communications with abuse hotlines and shelters, and the ability of wireless providers to do so.
Comments are due August 18, 2022.
Reply comments are due September 19, 2022.
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