For people travelling to US - Its not a big deal to get a prepaid simcard. You can get it off the shelf without any id proof or documents. Also there are unlimited talk and text plans for 60$ which is way cheaper than using all the Matrix and other cards. Also to call India you can use calling cards which are cheaper and calling the access numbers for them is not charged as you are on unlimited talk .
AT&t is a GsM provider and has good coverage across states.