Expanding Digital Access for Foster Youth: Downey Brand Helps Reform California Public Utilities Commission’s Telecommunications Program

October 31, 2025

Downey Brand is proud to share a recent pro bono victory on behalf of the Youth Law Center that will help bridge the digital divide for foster youth across California.

Attorneys Christopher Marelich and Michael Day represented the Youth Law Center before the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in its Petition to Modify the California LifeLine Foster Youth Program, which previously limited access to cell phones for foster youth due to excessive eligibility and process requirements. Following Downey Brand’s Petition and subsequent recommendations, the CPUC adopted a revised decision incorporating most of the Youth Law Center’s proposals, including expanding program eligibility to all current or former foster youth or non-minor dependents who were in foster care at any time on or after their 13^th birthday, streamlining enrollment, and extending additional benefits for current and former foster youth.

“The Decision will go a long way to improve outcomes for young people with foster youth experience. We are proud to have partnered with the Youth Law Center on the Petition, and are grateful to CPUC Staff who worked on revising the Foster Youth Program,” said Chris Marelich.

The result is an improved Lifeline Foster Youth Program that ensures greater access to free smartphones and service for thousands of California foster youth, helping them stay connected to caregivers and support systems, pursue education and employment opportunities, and build independent lives.

“This decision removes major policy barriers that have limited young people’s access to the basic digital tools and connections they need to thrive,” said Jennifer Rodriguez, Executive Director of the Youth Law Center. “Downey Brand’s expertise and leadership made this possible—their team navigated an intricate and opaque system while keeping youth needs and realities at the center. The result will be truly life-changing.”

“What stands out most,” Rodriguez added, “is how Chris and Mike treated youth in foster care as clients every bit as important as any of the more powerful ones the Commission regularly hears from. Their commitment and generosity have helped begin to close the digital divide for foster youth.”

The CPUC’s expanded California LifeLine Foster Youth Program, adopted at its October 9, 2025, voting meeting, now includes broader eligibility for current and former foster youth, simplified documentation requirements, and stronger transition pathways as youth age out of care.

Downey Brand is honored to have supported the Youth Law Center in this vital effort to remove barriers and increase digital equity for foster youth across the state.

Read more about the CPUC’s October 9 decision, and what it means for California youth in foster care, here. Additionally, you can view a recent announcement issued by the Youth Law Center, here.