Senate bill would force all Lifeline signups through federal verifier

What does this do?

S 3954 would eliminate the option for states to use their own eligibility systems for the Lifeline program, which helps low-income Americans pay for phone and internet service. All phone and internet companies would be required to verify customer eligibility exclusively through the federal National Verifier before enrolling anyone in the program. The National Verifier cross-checks federal databases to confirm eligibility.

Who does it affect?

Low-income residents in states that currently use their own eligibility systems would face a different sign-up process than they do now. Phone and internet companies operating in those states would also need to change how they verify customers before enrolling them in Lifeline benefits.

Why does it matter?

Supporters say requiring the National Verifier would reduce fraud and waste by catching deceased or otherwise ineligible enrollees that less thorough state systems may miss. Residents in states where existing state systems are faster or easier to navigate could experience a more complicated or unfamiliar enrollment process.

Where does it stand?