modernization last year was the implementation of a National Verifier system to streamline Lifeline enrollment throughout the country. The system will be rolled out across new states over the next few years. In response to USAC's draft plans for the system, NHMC identified one area that USAC must prioritize: an online tool for consumers to identify Lifeline providers in their geographic area. Such a tool would empower consumers and advocates to make educated decisions and facilitate a competitive marketplace for Lifeline service. NHMC also emphasized that carriers' Lifeline educational materials be accessible to all consumers across multiple languages and technologies and that consumers be afforded multiple ways to sign up for Lifeline with as few barriers as possible. Joining NHMC in the comments were the National Consumer Law Center, Benton Foundation, Center for Rural Strategies, National Digital Inclusion Alliance, Appalshop, Inc., Open Access Connections, Access Sonoma Broadband, Access Humboldt, Ohio Poverty Law Center, Media Alliance, and the Broadband Alliance of Mendocino County. https://www.nhmc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Consumer-Comments-on-Draft-National-Verifier-Plan.pdf]]>
