HI HB1052

Establishes the universal service program with six stated purposes, including maintaining affordable telecommunications rates, assisting low-income and disabled customers, and ensuring statewide access to advanced telecommunications services.

Adds a new purpose (paragraph 6) to the universal service program: ensuring access to essential telecommunications services for individuals with print disabilities, specifically providing free telephonic access to time-sensitive information for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Defines "time-sensitive information" to include state and government information, public notices, emergency alerts, job opportunities, and daily newspapers.

Authorizes the Public Utilities Commission to use up to $150,000 annually from the universal service fund to provide free telephonic access to time-sensitive information for individuals with print disabilities.

Grants the Public Utilities Commission authority to determine the percentage of telecommunications fees to be contributed to the universal service fund and permits direct distribution of funds to customers based on need criteria established by the commission.