A bill to terminate the ability of eligible telecommunications carriers in certain States to use State eligibility determination processes in place of the National Verifier to determine the eligibility of consumers for Lifeline service.

# Summary of S 3954 **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would require all states to use a single, federally-run system (called the "National Verifier") to determine who qualifies for Lifeline service—a federal program that provides discounted phone and internet service to low-income Americans. Currently, some states are allowed to use their own eligibility verification processes instead of the National Verifier. This bill would eliminate that option and standardize the process nationwide. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily impacts telecommunications companies offering Lifeline service and low-income consumers applying for the program.

It would also affect state governments that currently manage their own eligibility determinations, as they would lose that responsibility. **Current Status:** S 3954 is currently in committee and has not yet advanced to a floor vote. The bill was introduced by Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) in the 119th Congress. No further action has been taken at this time.