CA SB857

Extends the California High-Cost Fund-A (CHCF-A) program requirements from January 1, 2023 to January 1, 2028, maintaining universal service rate support for small independent rural telephone corporations.

Extends the California High-Cost Fund-B (CHCF-B) program requirements from January 1, 2023 to January 1, 2028, preserving the fair and equitable local rate support structure for telephone corporations in high-cost service areas.

Requires the Public Utilities Commission to structure both programs so that charges imposed for universal service goals reasonably equal the value of benefits to contributing entities and their subscribers.

Declares the act an urgency statute taking effect immediately upon Governor approval (September 28, 2022).