Communications: universal service programs.
Vote required
Two Thirds
Fiscal committee
No
Appropriation
No
Current location
Enrolled
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed Assembly
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill extends the duration of two California universal service programs, the California High-Cost Fund-A (CHCF-A) and the California High-Cost Fund-B (CHCF-B), established by the Public Utilities Commission. These funds provide financial support to rural telephone companies to ensure affordable and reliable communication services. The bill aims to maintain and refine these programs through 2033, focusing on equitable rate structures and promoting broadband access in rural areas.
Key provisions
- Extends the CHCF-A and CHCF-B programs to January 1, 2033.
- Reinforces the Public Utilities Commission’s role in regulating these funds and supporting rural telephone companies.
- Specifies requirements for rate design and support levels to ensure fairness and comparability to urban rates.
- Requires small independent telephone corporations to meet specific criteria to participate in the CHCF-A program.
Who is affected
- Telephone corporations (particularly rural ones)
- Ratepayers in rural areas
- The Public Utilities Commission
- California residents in rural areas
Notable changes
- Extends the current program timelines from January 1, 2028, to January 1, 2033.
- Clarifies the commission’s responsibilities in establishing and administering the funds.
- Includes provisions for investigating potential reductions or elimination of universal service rate support in competitive areas.
Bill text
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Sponsors
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11 on record
Primary sponsor
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