CA Considers Phone Subsidies for Undocumented Immigrants

California's Public Utilities Commission is set to vote on a proposal that would extend the California LifeLine program, which subsidizes phone bills for low-income residents, to include undocumented immigrants by removing the requirement for Social Security Numbers (SSNs). The proposal, scheduled for a September 26 vote, faces criticism from Republicans who view it as a misuse of taxpayer money. Supporters argue that undocumented immigrants should receive help during hard times just like other Californians. This initiative follows other state programs aiding undocumented immigrants, such as subsidized health insurance. The timing of the vote is politically sensitive as it comes ahead of national elections, with Democrats, including Vice President Kamala Harris, trying to balance immigration policies to counter Republican critiques. Governor Gavin Newsom recently vetoed a bill that would have provided housing loans to undocumented immigrants, indicating a cautious approach to such policies.