(1) A telecommunications service assistance program is hereby established within the department of health and welfare to provide eligible recipients with a reduction in costs of telecommunications services to promote universal service. The program shall be administered by the department of health and welfare in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and rules and regulations promulgated in compliance with chapter 52, title 67, Idaho Code, to administer the program. The telecommunications service assistance program adopted shall grant limited federal "lifeline" contributions to Idaho’s low-income customers.
(2)  For the purposes of this chapter, a "telecommunications carrier" means a telephone corporation providing telecommunication services for compensation within this state, and shall include municipal, cooperative, or mutual nonprofit telephone companies, and telecommunication corporations providing wireless, cellular, personal communications services and mobile radio services for compensation.