On June 27, 2025, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Universal Service Fund (USF), overturning the Fifth Circuit Court’s decision. Earlier this year, NaLA joined AARP and the AARP Foundation in submitting an amicus brief to the Supreme Court in support of the USF and its funding mechanism.

The following statement can be attributed to David B. Dorwart, Chair, National Lifeline Association (NaLA):

“The National Lifeline Association (NaLA) applauds the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the constitutionality of the Universal Service Fund (USF) and the Federal Communications Commission’s use of Universal Service Administration Company (USAC) to administer USF programs, including Lifeline. This decision means that essential programs that make it possible for low-income Americans to work, learn and receive healthcare online can continue. 

NaLA is proud to serve these consumers to ensure they can connect to fast, affordable broadband each and every month and calls on Congress to take the necessary actions to modernize and reform the Lifeline program to ensure it’s meeting that goal.”