The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has announced a series of public forums to collect feedback on proposed updates to the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP). The program provides specialized telecommunications equipment, relay services, and speech-generating devices to Californians with disabilities.
The CPUC is reviewing potential changes to the DDTP through an ongoing rulemaking process, known as R.23-11-001. This review follows a recent needs assessment conducted by the CPUC’s Communications Division, which included input from community-based organizations and users of the program.
According to the CPUC, “Public input is essential to ensure the DDTP continues to serve the evolving needs of the disability community.”
Two in-person public forums are scheduled for September. On September 3, sessions will be held at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness (GLAD) in Los Angeles. On September 17, similar sessions will take place at Ed Roberts Campus’ Center for Independent Living in Berkeley.
The commission encourages members of the public—especially those who use or may use DDTP services—to attend these forums or submit written comments online via the proceeding’s Docket Card. The CPUC states that “public comments will help the CPUC reach an informed decision, which is expected later in 2025.”
American Sign Language interpretation will be provided at all forums. Additional language or accommodation requests can be made by contacting the CPUC’s Public Advisor’s Office at least five business days before a forum.
While commissioners or their staff may attend these events, no official decisions regarding updates to DDTP will be made during the forums.
The CPUC regulates utilities across California and works to protect consumers while ensuring access to reliable infrastructure and services. More information about this initiative can be found on their official website: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/.
