California Public Utilities Commission Expands Access to Communications for California Foster Youth
Source: Action News Now | By Will Anderson
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has introduced significant enhancements to the California LifeLine Foster Youth Program. Officials say the changes aim to broaden access to communication services for foster youth in California. The modifications were approved during the CPUC's meeting on October 9. They focus on ensuring that foster youth have reliable and affordable phone services to aid in education, employment, and building independent lives.
The program now includes all current and former foster youth aged 13 to 20 who were in foster care on or after their 13th birthday. Non-minor foster youth can enroll independently, and authorized representatives can assist both minor and non-minor youth. Youth exiting foster care can continue receiving services for six months after turning 21.The updates are a response to a petition from the Youth Law Center with support from stakeholders including The Utility Reform Network (TURN), Verizon/TracFone, and county agencies.