For Immediate Release: January 23, 2026
Contact: media@hispanicfederation.org
Hispanic Federation Commends California Public Utilities Commission and Verizon for Expanding Broadband Service to Underserved Communities
Los Angeles, CA –Last week, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and Verizon reached a pact that provides public benefits and expanded access to Californians. German Cash, California State Director of Hispanic Federation, issued the following statement:
“Hispanic Federation commends the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and Verizon for reaching an agreement that ensures the Verizon–Frontier acquisition delivers clear, enforceable public benefits for California communities to expand access for fiber, guarantee low-cost options for low-income families, and improve network reliability.
CPUC’s approval ensures that Latino families and other historically underserved communities across the state will be able to access the essential tools for sharing in the digital prosperity that we have seen across the country. For the community-based organizations Hispanic Federation works with across California, these provisions translate into real outcomes. They mean more families connecting to education, telehealth, and job opportunities while also making sure that rural and low-income communities receive long-overdue infrastructure upgrades.
This agreement underscores why state-level negotiations and oversight matter. By bringing companies to the table and establishing commitments that serve the public interest, states can work constructively with the private sector to protect consumers and ensure that major transactions strengthen our communities.
Hispanic Federation applauds CPUC and Verizon for reaching an agreement that serves the interests of Californians by expanding access, affordability, and opportunity for the people they serve.”
Background
California Public Utilities Commission agreement means that communities across California will see:
- The expansion of fiber broadband to tens of thousands of new locations
- $10 million partnership with the California State University system
- New wireless infrastructure investments in rural and small-market areas
- Long-term low-cost broadband options for low-income households
- Policies that will support supplier diversity as well as community engagement
- A commitment to offer $20-per-month fiber broadband to low-income consumers for the next 10 years, significantly reducing the financial barrier for high quality internet access
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About Hispanic Federation
Hispanic Federation (HF) is a nonprofit membership and advocacy organization, founded in 1990, committed to empowering and advancing the Hispanic community, with a focus on low-income, marginalized, and immigrant Latine. With programs in 43 states and territories, HF’s focus areas include immigration, economic empowerment, civic engagement, disaster relief, philanthropy, education, health, and the environment. HF also maintains ongoing public education campaigns and meets the organizational development needs of its member agencies through grant-making and capacity-building assistance.
