Bill > HB3148

This bill strengthens Oregon's Lifeline program, which provides telecommunications support for low-income customers, by expanding benefits and modifying existing regulations. The bill establishes the Oregon Lifeline plan, which now includes not only differential rates for low-income customers but also a one-time personal computing device benefit of up to $100 for purchasing new or refurbished Internet-enabled devices like computers or tablets. The Public Utility Commission is authorized to create and administer this expanded program, with the ability to contract with third parties for device purchasing. The bill removes previous alternative participation options for utilities and clarifies that all local exchange telecommunication service providers must participate in the program. Additionally, the bill allows the commission more flexibility in marketing and outreach activities related to the Lifeline program, limiting expenditures to 15% of collected surcharges. The legislation also makes several technical amendments to various Oregon Revised Statutes to support these changes, including tax and fee-related modifications, and includes an emergency clause to implement the program quickly, emphasizing the importance of bridging the digital divide for low-income residents.