“During the Obama administration, the FCC’s approach to universal service expanded. Congress in 2009 enacted a law ordering the FCC to develop its National Broadband Plan. The Obama administration, well into the internet and wireless age, agreed that broadband and cellular services are essential. ”
https://federalnewsnetwork.com/tom-temin-commentary/2017/07/a-short-history-of-the-obamaphone/