Schatz Statement On FCC Implementing Safe Connections Act Provision Enabling Domestic Violence Survivors To Access Discounted Phone Service Through Federal Lifeline Program
Schatz-Authored Safe Connections Act Was Signed Into Law in 2022
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced it has implemented a key provision of the Schatz-authored Safe Connections Act which enables domestic violence survivors who’ve separated from their abuser’s phone plan to qualify for discounted phone service through the FCC’s Lifeline program.
“Survivors of domestic violence should be able to sever ties with their abusers – including their phone plans – while still having the ability to stay connected with their families and support network,” said Senator Schatz. “I’m pleased the FCC is implementing a key component of our Safe Connections Act and enabling survivors to get the help and support they need.”
The Safe Connections Act, which was signed into law in 2022, allows survivors to separate a mobile phone line from any shared plan involving an abuser without penalties.
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