Senator Bernie Sanders joined Senate Democrats in condemning the actions of brand new Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Varadaraj Pai.
Pai, an appointee of President Trump who was confirmed in late January revoked the recognition of nine companies as Lifeline broadband providers, weeks after they were approved.
The Lifeline program provides a discount on phone and internet services for low-income earners.
Democrats were quick to criticise the move, signing an open letter to Chairman Pai. Among the signatories were Elizabeth Warren, Al Franken, Cory Booker and Bernie Sanders.
“This action does nothing but create a chilling effect on potential provider participation, and unfairly punish low-income consumers,” the letter read.
“We urge you to recognize that your recent decision may have far-reaching impacts beyond just disconnecting the customers of one of the nine providers whose LBP status you have revoked.”
Senator Al Franken said the decision would “deprive Americans of broadband.”
You can read the full contents of the letter here.
