PSC Staff to Address Link-Up and Lifeline Efforts

In February, Commissioners directed staff to conduct a workshop to address Florida’s ongoing Link-Up and Lifeline goals and outreach efforts, how to increase enrollment in Lifeline, and to identify any barriers which may discourage or prevent people from enrolling in Lifeline.

“It is critical that Floridians are able to maintain contacts with emergency services, medical providers, and family members,” Commissioner Matthew M. Carter said.  Our goal “is to reach out with a hand-up for those in need.”

The goals of Link-Up and Lifeline programs, are to ensure quality telecommunications services are available to low-income consumers at just, reasonable, and affordable rates.  This includes the goals of not only assisting low-income consumers with initial access to the telephone network, but also assisting consumers with maintaining service. Link-Up Florida provides a reduction of up to 50 percent in the telephone hook-up charge to a maximum of $30.  The Lifeline Assistance program provides a credit of $13.50 for local monthly phone service.

The workshop will be held at the following time, date and location:

Tuesday, April 11, 2006

9:00 a.m.

Betty Easley Conference Center, Room 148

4075 Esplanade Way

Tallahassee, Florida

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