California regulators want to tax text messages to increase funds for social programs.

 

The plan by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) would be a monthly fee based on a cellular bill that includes any fees for text-message services. Most carriers offer a flat fee option for texting, and already charge a similar fee for other services included in the bill — such as phone calls. The exact structure of the charge would vary from carrier to carrier.

 

The commission will vote on the measure January 10, 2019.