RELEASE: NHMC Files Motion to Extend Comment Period for the Lifeline Proceeding

The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) filed a Motion for Extension of Time in the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) current Lifeline proceeding. NHMC noted in its filing that it would be prudent for the FCC to delay the proceeding and that "extending the deadline for comments...is consistent with the Commission's assessment of the extraordinary and widespread impact of the 2017 hurricane season."

The National Hispanic Media Coalition released the following statement from Carmen Scurato, vice president of policy and general counsel:

"In the aftermath of the devastating 2017 hurricane season, Lifeline is in a position to provide the temporary relief necessary to help the residents of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Almost four months after Hurricane Maria, about half of Puerto Rico still lacks power and therefore reliable access to communications. The FCC's proposals would put Lifeline at odds with its intended purpose of providing assistance to low-income individuals to connect to vital communications services. The last thing they need is for the FCC to move forward with a proceeding that would cut off their service without providing adequate time to comment and participate in the rule-making proceeding."

For interviews, please contact Clarissa Corona, at communications@nhmc.org or at 213.718.0732.

The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) is  the media watchdog for the Latino community, ensuring that we are fairly and consistently represented in news and entertainment and that our voices are heard over the airwaves and on the internet.