FCC Lifeline Proposal Could Cut Off Eligible Users, Stakeholders Warn

WASHINGTON, May 5, 2026 – A federal plan to overhaul Lifeline is drawing sharp divisions over how to curb fraud without cutting off eligible users.

The proposal adopted in February by the Federal Communications Commission would tighten identity verification, potentially require full Social Security numbers, and classify Lifeline as a “federal public benefit,” a shift that could limit eligibility for some non-citizens. It also introduces new consent and enrollment rules aimed at curbing improper participation.

In public comments filed with the FCC, most stakeholders said those goals are legitimate but cautioned the reforms could reduce participation by creating new barriers.

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