The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a new computer matching program with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. This program aims to verify if applicants applying for the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefits qualify based on their participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It helps ensure that only eligible individuals receive these discounted broadband and voice services, thereby reducing waste, fraud, and simplifying service provision. The program will begin on March 27, 2025, and is authorized under specific U.S. legal codes related to communication services.
Simple Explanation
The FCC is starting a new program to help make sure that people who get help paying for their phone or internet really qualify for it, by checking their info with another group from North Carolina that's in charge of helping with food benefits like SNAP.