What is an obama phone?

The term "Obama phone" is a colloquial and often derogatory term for the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Lifeline%20Assistance">Lifeline Assistance</a> program. This program is a government initiative that provides discounted or free phone service to low-income individuals and families. It predates Barack Obama's presidency, having been established in 1985 under the Reagan administration. The initial aim was to ensure access to telephone service for all Americans.

The program is funded by the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Universal%20Service%20Fund">Universal Service Fund</a> (USF), which is supported by fees assessed on telephone bills. The program was expanded in 2008 under President George W. Bush to include cell phone service. It's managed by the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Universal%20Service%20Administrative%20Company">Universal Service Administrative Company</a> (USAC).

The nickname "Obama phone" gained popularity (and notoriety) after a video circulated during the 2008 presidential campaign, featuring a woman stating she was going to vote for Obama so she could get a free phone. This led to the misperception that Obama created the program and that it provides free phones directly. This is incorrect. The program provides a subsidy to help low-income individuals afford phone service, and eligibility requirements must be met to participate. These requirements often include participating in other government assistance programs like <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Supplemental%20Nutrition%20Assistance%20Program">Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a> (SNAP) or <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Medicaid">Medicaid</a>, or having an income below a certain threshold.

The program's actual purpose is to ensure that everyone has access to communication services for emergencies, job opportunities, and staying connected with family. The term "Obama phone" is often used pejoratively to criticize the program and those who benefit from it.