Help available to low-income residents for phone, internet
STAFF REPORT | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 4 years, 1 month AGO
LACEY — The Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission wants to remind Washington residents that help is available for low-income families with their phone and internet bills.
Under the Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline program, eligible participants can receive a $9.25-per-month discount on broadband, up to $5.25 per month to help pay phone bills, and additional $25 per month for residents on tribal lands, according to a commission press release.
Customers who are eligible for some public assistance programs, such as Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, are also eligible for the Lifeline program, the press release said, though benefits are limited to one recipient per household.
Some low-income residents may also be eligible for the FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program, which helps families below 200% of the federal poverty level or on public assistance with a $30-per-month subsidy for broadband internet access ($75 for residents of tribal lands).
For more information on federal assistance for phone and internet access, visit the Affordable Connectivity Program’s website at www.affordableconnectivity.gov.
ARTICLES BY STAFF REPORT
Connell woman killed in Booker Road crash
CONNELL — Charges are pending against a Kennewick man following a collision about 12 miles south of Othello that killed a Connell woman and injured three other people Tuesday evening. A Washington State Patrol press memo said intoxicating substances were a factor. Jessica Zarate, 37, Connell, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash near the intersection of SR 17 and South Booker Road, the WSP memo said. She was driving south on Booker Road approaching the intersection when her car was hit by a pickup driven by John Reiss, 62, Kennewick. Edgar Garcia Quirino, 28, Othello, was driving north on SR 17 and ran into Zarate's car, the WSP memo said. The crash occurred at about 6:40 p.m.
Wheeler Road closed because of traffic collision
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Doors opening: The Currents will provide homeownership for more local workers
About 104 homes are planned at the former Atlas sawmill site
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