Are Cell Phones a Civil Right? In Penn., Apparently Yes

The state of Pennsylvania says having a cell phone is a civil right.

That's according to an obviously opinionated report from the New York Post:

Recently, a federal government program called the Universal Service Fund came to the Keystone State and some residents are thrilled because it means they can enjoy 250 minutes a month and a handset for free, just because they don't have the money to pay for it. Through Assurance Wireless and SafeLink from Tracfone Wireless these folks get to reach out and touch someone while the cost of their service is paid for by everyone else. You see, the telecommunications companies are funding the Universal Service Fund to the tune of $4 billion a year because the feds said they have to and in order to recoup their money, the companies turn around and hike their fees to paying customers. But those of use paying for the free service for the poor, should be happy about this infuriating situation, says Gary Carter, manager of national partnerships for Assurance, because "the program is about peace of mind." Free cell service means "one less bill that someone has to pay, so they can pay their rent or for day care...it is a right to have peace of mind," Cater explained.

But phone companies may not be exactly on board with providing these services. An article from the San Francisco Chronicle says providers just want the government to reduce fees they pay to make phone services work in remote, especially rural, areas.

Some, naturally, like the idea. One Pennsylvania website devoted to the free cell phone agreements explains who could benefit from the new phone plan and how to find out if you're eligible:

The fact is, a lot of Pennsylvania residents could use a little help right now. As of May 2011 the unemployment rate is a disappointing 7.4%. The fact that that is lower than the national average is of little solace to those Keystone Staters who find themselves without a steady income.

Fear not, Pennsylvanians. The Lifeline phone service program can help you get a free cell phone and free monthly minutes, from the government. At least that is one less bill to pay.

[...]

You are eligible if you receive benefits from any of these programs in Pennsylvania:

• Federal Public Housing Assistance / Section 8
• Food Stamps
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• National School Lunch (free program only)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• Medicaid
• State Blind Pension

You may also qualify if your Total Household Income is at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Kind of reminds you of Jesse Jackson Jr's call for free iPods and laptops, doesn't it?