20260114News Release.pdf

Idaho Public Utilities Commission Brad Little,Governor
P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0074 Edward Lodge, President
John R.Hammond, Jr.,Commissioner
Dayn Hardie,Commissioner
Case No.VMU-T-25-01
Order No. 36904
Contact:Adam Rush
Office: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
NEWS RELEASE: Commission approves telecom utility's application to expand eligible
telecommunications carrier service area.
BOISE (Jan. 14, 2026) —The Idaho Public Utilities Commission has approved an application
submitted by Assurance Wireless USA, L.P. to expand its eligible telecommunications carrier
(ETC) service area. The approval will allow Assurance Wireless to offer communications
services to additional low-income customers in Idaho.
Under the Federal Communications Act of 1934, a telecommunications carrier is eligible to
receive federal support from the Universal Service Fund (USF) throughout the service area for
which an ETC designation is granted.Assurance Wireless will use the federal support to fund
Lifeline services.These are discounts on phone and Internet service for qualifying low-income
customers and are intended to ensure the customers can connect to jobs, family and emergency
services.
To qualify as an ETC, a telecommunications utility must meet requirements spelled out in federal
and state law. The requirements include demonstrating technical ability, serving a specific area
and meeting consumer protection and quality standards, among other items.
The Commission approved the utility's application on January 13, 2026.
Additional information is available at: puc.idaho.gov/case/Details/7569.