NaLA Blog & Latest News

R Street Institute Event Advocates for Conservative Support on ACP Funding

In a demonstration of the bipartisan support for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), panelists discussed why conservatives should support renewing funding.

On September 12, NaLA attended the R Street Institute event “The Conservative Case for the Affordable Connectivity Program” on Capitol Hill at the Rayburn House Office Building. The discussion focused on why conservatives should support the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), and what a pathway to additional funding could look like.

The event opened with a fireside chat between former FCC Commissioner Mike O’Reilly and Luke Hogg, Director of Outreach at the Foundation for American Innovation. In his remarks, O’Reilly called the ACP a successful program that allows for market competition across rural, urban, and suburban communities.

“This is not about Republicans or Democrats, not about Red or Blue,” O’Reilly said in response to a question about the current debates to renew ACP funding. “This is something felt in every district and important for all Americans.” 

The former Commissioner expressed worries about the future of broadband if ACP were to run out of funding, arguing that the best path forward is to address short-term budgetary needs. As that happens, he said, conservatives will be able to have broader conversations about reforming the Universal Service Fund (USF) and other programs.

Following their conversation, Shane Tews, a Nonresident Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, moderated a conversation with R Street’s Jonathan Cannon; Edward Longe, Director at the James Madison Institute’s Center for Technology and Innovation; Jeffrey Westling, Director of Technology and Innovation Policy at the American Action Forum; and Bartlett Cleland, Executive Director at the Innovation Economic Alliance.

Panelists shared their perspectives on how and why conservatives are pushing for ACP renewal. According to Cannon, “one of the things most desirable to us conservatives is that [ACP] is a market-driven approach,” calling it, “game-changing.”

Westling agreed, adding that “if you want to get the most bang for your buck, you want a program like the ACP.”

“Some program has to address broadband affordability and [without ACP], they’re going to reclassify broadband as a Title II service,” Westling explained. “I would be shocked if we let ACP expire, and if we don’t hear arguments about regulating companies. So if you’re a conservative, I think it’s important to support the current alternative.”

Panelists all agreed that if the ACP were to end, it would negatively affect people in low-income communities across the U.S., particularly elderly and rural consumers. The panelists stood united on the need for ongoing funding, highlighting how crucial the ACP is in empowering millions of Americans to succeed in the digital era.

NaLA believes that closing the digital divide means making broadband affordable for all Americans so that they can stay connected each and every month. We have partnered with advocates on both sides of the aisle to support the continuation of this program to ensure individuals and families are not left without affordable and consistent access to essential online services.

No comments
Glen Echo GroupR Street Institute Event Advocates for Conservative Support on ACP Funding
read more

NaLA congratulates Anna Gomez on her confirmation to the FCC

The Senate voted today to confirm Anna Gomez as the fifth Commissioner on the Federal Communications Commission. Gomez brings extensive experience working in telecommunications policy, including at the FCC in previous roles. NaLA released the following statement from Board Chairman David Dorwart:

“The National Lifeline Association (NaLA) and I on behalf of all of stakeholders extend our warmest congratulations to Anna Gomez for her confirmation as an FCC commissioner. She is a veteran of telecommunications policy with a proven commitment to public service and expanding access to affordable communications. We look forward to working together to realize our common goal of providing every low-income American with sustainably affordable access to essential communications services.”

No comments
Glen Echo GroupNaLA congratulates Anna Gomez on her confirmation to the FCC
read more

NaLA Submits Comments to Senate Universal Service Fund Working Group

Senate Universal Service Fund (USF) Working Group sought comments on program effectiveness and necessary reforms

As the only ecosystem-based organization focused on ensuring that low-income Americans have sustainable, affordable access to essential communications services, NaLA has submitted comments to the Senate Universal Service Fund (USF) Working Group focused on ensuring that low-income Americans have sustainably affordable access to essential communications each and every month. 

NaLA’s members include service providers, distributors, network access aggregators, compliance and software solutions vendors, device manufacturers, enrollment representatives, program supporters and beneficiaries invested in the future of the Lifeline and ACP programs. NaLA notes that wireless resellers play an important part in ensuring the success of these programs, including by serving over a third of all ACP subscribers.

The USF Working Group is seeking comments on the effectiveness of – and necessary reforms to – the programs funded by the universal service fund, which includes Lifeline.

Some highlights from the comments NaLA submitted:

  • NaLA submits that with ACP funding set to run out as early as April 2024, appropriated funding will be needed at least until USF reform can be accomplished.
  • NaLA proposes that either Congress and the FCC consolidate the Lifeline program with the ACP or reform both so that they better serve the goal of making essential communications services sustainably affordable each and every month.
  • NaLA recommends that any future low-income program should incorporate key program design elements from the ACP, including a robust monthly service and device benefits, technology neutrality, reasonable benefit transfer limits, and a safe harbor and entry requirements that encourage competition that translates into compelling choices and value for eligible consumers.  
  • NaLA maintains that program integrity can be preserved by conforming eligibility requirements and by reliance on the National Verifier which should be subject to continuous improvement and greater transparency.
  • NaLA submits that the effectiveness of a low-income support program should be measured by whether low-income households have sustainably affordable access to essential communications services. Adoption is a secondary benefit that can be addressed only in part by a low-income affordable connectivity benefit program.

The full comments, including an executive summary, are available here.

No comments
Glen Echo GroupNaLA Submits Comments to Senate Universal Service Fund Working Group
read more

Next Century Cities Congressional Briefing Advocates for ACP Refunding

On July 19, NaLA along with The Pew Charitable Trusts, Buckeye Regional Council, Common Sense Media, and Next Century Cities hosted experts and community leaders for a Congressional Briefing focused on the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) at the Nelson Mullins office. The discussion highlighted the significant impact of the ACP and emphasized the need for its continuation and strengthening.

The event featured keynote remarks from Doug McCollough, CIO of Dublin, Ohio and Mike Lynch, Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Director at NATOA and a panel discussion moderated by Kathryn de Wit from The Pew Charitable Trusts with panelists: Kenya Asli from the City of Baltimore, Maryland; Ryan Collins from the Buckeye Hills Regional Council of Governments; Khotan Harmon from the City of Austin, Texas; and Drew Garner, State Broadband Policy Advisor from Common Sense Media.

During his keynote remarks, McCollough acknowledged that while the ACP may not be the permanent solution for broadband accessibility, it has been a catalyst for progress in digital equity. The program’s innovative nature has forced various stakeholders to work together, and to advocate for high-quality broadband access for everyone, especially underserved communities. He also recognized the pivotal role of service providers in ensuring the program’s success and acknowledged the importance of communities being empowered to voice their needs effectively.

Panelists shared insightful perspectives on some of those communities. For example, Garner emphasized that 98 percent of students use the internet for homework, highlighting the need for universal connectivity to ensure equal educational opportunities. Asli discussed how the ACP has allowed previously underserved communities to engage in the digital economy. She emphasized that as more government resources and services move online, we will need to ensure equitable and sustainable access to these resources for all citizens. Collins noted that access to the internet opens doors to telehealth and remote work, offering critical opportunities for economic growth in communities.

The panelists agreed that there is an urgent need for additional ACP funds. Garner stressed the importance of the device component in the ACP and emphasized the necessity of broadband subsidies to ensure universal affordable connectivity.

Collins emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility in continuing ACP funding, as it serves as the foundation for community prosperity and access to the global culture. He explained that a loss of ACP funding would “pull the rug out from under all that opportunity,” that has been built in rural areas. Communities “need access to the global culture so these communities don’t feel isolated. People can survive without the internet, but they can’t truly thrive. Thus, without it, it will take them back. It will suck the air out of the community”.

The panelists’ unanimous call for continued funding underscores the impact of the ACP in ensuring that millions of Americans can thrive in the digital age. NaLA believes that closing the digital divide means making broadband affordable for all Americans so that they can stay connected each and every month. We advocate for the continuation of this program to ensure individuals and families are not left without affordable and consistent access to essential online services.

No comments
Glen Echo GroupNext Century Cities Congressional Briefing Advocates for ACP Refunding
read more

Statement from the National Lifeline Association on NARUC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Resolution

NARUC’s Telecom Committee voted today to pass its resolution supporting congressional funding for the ACP. See page 3 here for the resolution. 

Below is a statement from David B. Dorwart, Chairman of the National Lifeline Association (NaLA) on the resolution:

“The National Lifeline Association (NaLA) supports NARUC’s Resolution Supporting Permanent Funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Whether through annual appropriations or the Universal Service Fund, it is critical that Congress act to ensure that this vital program not run out of funds next year. Failure to act in a timely manner risks cutting off nearly 20 million American families from the internet and all that digital connectivity enables – from personal well-being to a well-functioning economy.  NaLA applauds NARUC’s track record of leadership on ensuring that low-income American families can get and stay connected to affordable broadband services each and every month.”

No comments
Glen Echo GroupStatement from the National Lifeline Association on NARUC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Resolution
read more

Affordable Connectivity Program Week of Action June 14-22

It’s ACP Week of Action!

NaLA is proud to participate in the Affordable Connectivity Program Week of Action, hosted by Civic Nation and the U.S. Department of Education.

The goal of this week is to spread awareness about this program to millions of people, help thousands of new households get enrolled, and tell the story of how the ACP is helping to close the digital divide for students, their families, and all Americans.

Here’s how you can get involved and show your support for this essential program:

  • Add your organization’s name to the list of participating organizations.
  • Follow NaLA on LinkedInTwitter, and Facebook, and share our #OnlineForAll content.
  • Send us a testimonial from a consumer or enrollment representative for us to feature on the NaLA website.
  • Write a letter to your Congressional representative expressing why this program is so important. (Find your representative here)
  • Share resources about the program with your teams, like Education SuperHighway’s resource hub.
  • Register for the 2023 National Lifeline & ACP Conference to discuss how we can work together to bridge the digital divide.
Other Week of Action Happenings:
ACP Resources:
No comments
Glen Echo GroupAffordable Connectivity Program Week of Action June 14-22
read more

NaLA congratulates Anna Gomez, Geoffrey Starks and Brendan Carr on their nominations to the FCC

Today the White House announced the nominations of Anna Gomez, Geoffrey Starks and Brendan Carr to serve as FCC commissioners, NaLA released the following statement:

The National Lifeline Association (NaLA) congratulates Anna Gomez on her nomination by President Biden to serve as FCC commissioner and applauds the selection of a member of the Latino community. NaLA also congratulates Commissioners Carr and Starks on their renominations to continue their work as FCC commissioners. NaLA looks forward to working with Ms. Gomez, Mr. Carr, Mr. Starks and the full FCC to ensure that all Americans have affordable access to essential communication services.

No comments
Glen Echo GroupNaLA congratulates Anna Gomez, Geoffrey Starks and Brendan Carr on their nominations to the FCC
read more

NaLA asks the FCC to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence

The Safe Connections Act directs the Commission to designate either the Lifeline program or the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) as the vehicle to provide emergency communications services for survivors

On April 12, NaLA submitted comments to the FCC on its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement requirements of the Safe Connections Act. The comments urge the FCC to designate the Lifeline program as the program to provide emergency communications for qualifying survivors suffering from financial hardship because:

  • Lifeline is a permanent solution reliably funded through the Universal Service Fund (USF);
  • Lifeline subscribers are automatically eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) as well, meaning survivors can use benefits from both programs;
  • And unlike the ACP, Lifeline supports voice services, and Lifeline plans generally include bundles of broadband and voice service, providing survivors with the ability to dial 911, shelters and other support services when necessary.

To adequately serve the needs of survivors suffering from financial hardship and all low-income households, and taking lessons from the successful ACP, NaLA also calls for reform of the Lifeline program, particularly in the event that ACP funding is exhausted (which is expected to be early to mid-2024).

NaLA firmly believes that connecting survivors of domestic and sexual violence is a literal lifeline to safety, providing access to information, resources and support they might not otherwise have.

You can read the full comments here, which include details on NaLA’s suggestions for Lifeline reform and other recommendations for supporting survivors of abuse through access to essential communications services.

No comments
Glen Echo GroupNaLA asks the FCC to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence
read more

Nathan Stierwalt Elected to NaLA Board of Directors for a Second Term

KENNETT SQUARE, PA. April 6, 2023. The National Lifeline Association (NaLA) is pleased to announce the re-election of Nathan Stierwalt to its Board of Directors. Mr. Stierwalt, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for PWG Network Solutions, is the first NaLA board member representing the carriers, phone suppliers, and phone manufacturer supply chains.

“I am very honored to have been re-elected by my peers for a second term on the NaLA Board of Directors,” said Mr. Stierwalt. “I look forward to continuing my work with this incredible organization and helping bring awareness to how the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Programs help low-income consumers access telemedicine, distance learning, potential employers, government assistance, and emergency services.”

NaLA is passionate about the continuity and advancement of the ACP and Lifeline programs and is committed to driving this vision through education, cooperation, and advocacy. As part of his role on the board, Mr. Stierwalt will provide valuable insight into how carriers, phone suppliers, and phone manufacturers can contribute to the organization’s overall mission.

David B. Dorwart, Chairman of the Board, said, “Nathan has been a driving force within NaLA since joining us in 2019, and we are thrilled that he has accepted another term on our board. His knowledge from both sides of the industry – carrier supply chain and device supply chain – makes him an invaluable asset to our mission.”

Mr. Stierwalt has over 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, and channel development at various telecommunications companies, including Cincinnati Bell, Powernet Global, and Global Connections of America dba StandUp Wireless. He currently serves as the Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at PWG Network Solutions leading their sales and marketing efforts across all channels.

The National Lifeline Association is proud to have Nathan Stierwalt serve on its board once again for another three-year term. We look forward to seeing what other great things he will do with us.

To learn more about NaLA, visit: http://www.nalalifeline.org. 

About the National Lifeline Association (NaLA):

The National Lifeline Association (NaLA) is the only industry trade group specifically focused on the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) segment of the communications marketplace. NaLA works toward the preservation and advancement of Lifeline and the ACP through stakeholder engagement, education, collaboration and advocacy. We support all stakeholders in pursuit of a common goal: voice, text and broadband connectivity for all Americans. Through our ecosystem-wide membership that includes service providers, distributors, network access aggregators, compliance and software solutions vendors, device manufacturers, program supporters and beneficiaries, NaLA provides a platform to enable and realize of the goal of getting and keeping every low-income American connected to essential communications services. For more information on NaLA, visit https://www.nalalifeline.org.

More on Nathan’s reelection can be found here.

No comments
Glen Echo GroupNathan Stierwalt Elected to NaLA Board of Directors for a Second Term
read more

NaLA Statement on Fifth U.S. Circuit Court Decision

“Today the Fifth Circuit court upheld the constitutionality of the Federal Communications Commission’s Universal Service Fund (USF) and the agency’s use of Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) to administer USF programs, including Lifeline. NaLA is pleased with this decision as the USF and Lifeline in particular provides targeted support to low-income Americans who struggle to afford essential communications services necessary to participate in our digital society. NaLA is proud to serve these consumers and ensure they can connect to family, community, jobs, education, telehealth and other service using our members’ mobile voice and broadband solutions.” – David B. Dorwart, NaLA Chairman

More news on the decision can be found here.

No comments
Glen Echo GroupNaLA Statement on Fifth U.S. Circuit Court Decision
read more