Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) announced today that Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 1191, Telecommunications: Universal Service CHCF Programs: Sunset Extension, into law, preserving programs that help keep basic telecommunications services affordable and available in California’s rural and high-cost communities.
SB 1191 extends the California High-Cost Fund A (CHCF-A) and California High-Cost Fund B (CHCF-B) programs through January 1, 2033. Administered by the California Public Utilities Commission, the programs support basic voice telephone service in areas where difficult terrain, long distances between customers and low population density can make providing service more costly.
“Reliable telephone service is critical, especially in rural communities where residents depend on these networks to stay connected to family, emergency services and their communities,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “By extending these programs, SB 1191 helps ensure that where someone lives does not determine whether they can afford access to essential telecommunications services. I appreciate Governor Newsom signing this measure into law.”
The High-Cost Fund programs support local exchange carriers that have a “Carrier of Last Resort” obligation to provide basic voice service capable of reaching 911 emergency services to residents within their service areas who request it. The programs also work alongside federal High-Cost funding to maximize support available to Californians.
“We can’t thank Senator Ochoa Bogh enough for being a champion for rural Californians and their access to modern telecommunications networks,” said Jason Tikijian, Chair of California’s Independent Telecommunications Companies. “Her SB 1191 will continue the financial support that keeps rural phone rates affordable. It couldn’t come at a more critical time for our customers and communities.”
SB 1191 was co-sponsored by California’s Independent Telecommunications Companies and the California Communications Association, with support from USTelecom – The Broadband Association.