20100419Comment (Governor).pdf

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c. L. "BUTCH" OTTER
GOVERNOR
April 16,2010
Jean D. Jewell, Secretary
Idaho Public Utilities Commission
POBox 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0074
RE: TracFone Lifeline Application
Case No. TFW-T-09-01
Dear Madame Secreta,
Allow me to encourage the Idaho Public Utilties Commission to act expeditiously and
approve the subject application of TracFone Wireless, Inc. to be an Eligible
Telecommunication Carier ("ETC") in our state. Already 24 other states have approved
a similar request by TracFone, enabling it to begin offering its free Lifeline wireless
phone program to eligible lower-income consumers.
As you well know, times are tough in Idaho. This has been one of the worst recessions in
our lifetime. It is especially hard on our significant number of low-income households.
There are many Idahoans who could benefit from TracFone's free service, which is
revenue neutral to the State of Idaho. These constituents should have the opportity to
access emergency help, search for employment and stay in touch with family members.
TracFone's Lifeline service provides eligible consumers a free wireless phone.
Last year it was estimated that less than 20 percent ofIdaho's 150,000 low-income
households had Lifeline service. Since Idahoans pay into the federal Universal Service
Fund and it pays for this program, I encourage the commission to act promptly to approve
TracFone's ETC application so eligible Idaho familes can utilize TracFone's Lifeline
service.
As Always - Idaho, "Esto Perpetu"
C.L. "Butch" Otter
Governor of Idaho
STATE CAPITOL · BOISE, IDAHO 83720 · [phone]