EPA
Record Shutdown Leaves Communications Agencies Strained Despite Senate Action
The shutdown slowed down broadband rollout, telecom licensing, merger activity.
Akul Saxena
Reporter Akul Saxena studied Politics at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and has experience working in the mergers and acquisitions space. He’s focused on economic mobility and tech policy, and how broadband infrastructure supports both.
Public Safety
First Responders Back FirstNet Reauthorization as 2027 Sunset Nears
Survey finds 93% of first responders support extending the First Responder Network Authority.
Satellite
FCC Pushes Satellite Modernization as Carr Warns of ‘Space Race 2.0’
Chairman Brendan Carr touted faster approvals and expanded spectrum access to sustain U.S. space leadership.
India
Rio to Test Laser-Based Internet by Taara in City-Wide AI Plan
More than 20 light links will form a high-capacity urban backbone.
Infrastructure
Oklahoma Broadband Office Reopens Federal Program to Finish ARPA Buildout
Applications now open for co-ops, utilities, and broadband operators.
national security
FCC Chief of Staff: Network Protection Core to America's National Security
Agency leader outlined measured to protect U.S. networks and innovation from foreign interference.
Ukraine
With 8 Million Users Globally, Starlink Likely Seventh Largest Fixed U.S. ISP
Nearly 9,000 satellites now deliver broadband service worldwide
SEC
Senators Introduce Bill Requiring Transparency on AI Job Losses
The legislation would create new reporting rules to track automation’s impact.
Maryland
Amazon Web Services to Build Transatlantic Cable Between Ireland and Maryland
New subsea route aims to strengthens cloud and AI network capacity
Middle Mile
Kansas Wraps Up Major Broadband Program, Eyes BEAD Construction in 2026
Kansas broadband development official outlines next steps as Kansas nears BEAD deployment.
5G Wireless
5G Fixed Wireless Gains Blueprint for Multi-Tenant Broadband
The industry group said the new design helps providers extend reliable internet to multi-dwelling units.
Arkansas Partners With Google to Launch Free Tech Training
Free online courses aim to build high-skill workforce
Rural
Starlink Fallout Delays Ontario’s Universal Internet Target
Ontario delayed its broadband goal to 2028 amid U.S. trade tensions and construction setbacks.
Wisconsin
Illinois Repeals Nuclear Ban as Power Needs Grow
Citing grid reliability and cost control, Pritzker welcomed the bill to his desk as lawmakers pushed for long-term clean-energy investment.
Infrastructure
California Bill Tightens Scrap-Metal Rules, Raises Theft Penalties
Backed by cities, utilities, and broadband groups statewide
University of Washington Information School
Anchor Institution Say Mission Endures as Policy Climate Shifts
Coalition leaders outline long-term strategy for the future of digital equity and inclusion.
