CA AB74

Public Utilities Commission must adopt updated lifeline program rules by March 1, 2022 that enable online enrollment and recertification using electronic or telephonic signatures without requiring a commission-issued PIN.

Lifeline subscribers must be able to receive communications about their subscription in electronic formats including email and text message.

Commission must adopt further updated rules by January 1, 2023 in consultation with service providers and federal agencies, aiming to achieve recertification rates equivalent to the federal lifeline program.

Commission must annually publish participation and recertification rates for eligible lifeline subscribers on its website.

No state reimbursement required as the bill only creates new rules for an existing program without imposing new local agency costs.