SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – The California Public Utilities Commission has launched a new pilot program aimed at improving broadband access for low-income households through the California LifeLine program.
Officials with the CPUC say the initiative seeks to bridge the digital divide by increasing data provisions for these families.
The three-year Home Broadband Pilot will allow eligible consumers to apply the California LifeLine subsidy to any internet plan that meets minimum service standards.
“Broadband is essential for work, school, health, and safety,” said CPUC President Alice Reynolds. “This pilot program will play a key role in achieving the goal of connecting Californians.”
Subsidy amounts include a $20 subsidy for broadband service and $30 for broadband service bundled with a voice service. Bundles must be offered by the same provider. Additionally, there is reimbursement for new connections, up to $39, once per year per household.
The program sets minimum service standards at 100/20 Mbps with 1,280 GB usage per month, with exceptions for areas where such speeds are not feasible and for low-cost plans.
A CPUC report from April 2025 highlighted that nearly one in five California households earning less than $20,000 annually do not subscribe to internet service. This is in stark contrast to just 2.4 percent of households with incomes above $75,000.
The lack of access limits opportunities for telework, online education, telehealth, civic participation, and public safety resources.
California LifeLine has historically provided affordable voice service to millions of eligible Californians. The new pilot program aims to close the broadband gap and underscores the vital role broadband plays in everyday life while continuing support for traditional voice services.