Funding
Senate Bill Would Terminate USDA’s Community Connect Grant Program
The program supports broadband expansion in rural areas where service does not exist.
Jennifer Michel
Reporter Jennifer Michel studied political science at the University of California, Los Angeles, and worked at the Daily Bruin newspaper. She's focused on the intersection of journalism, tech and law.
Digital Inclusion
New York Reaches Deal with Securus to End Prison Phone Fees
Joins five other states in covering the cost of phone calls from prison.
Data Center
Energy Department Picks Federal Sites for AI Data Center Development
The Trump administration’s push to accelerate AI deployment begins to materialize
Funding
Lawmakers Open Comment Portal on Future of Universal Service Fund
Working group sought input on the effectiveness of USF programs, proposed reforms
BEAD
Wireless Now Dominates Colorado’s BEAD Applications
New BEAD rules push some Colorado providers away from fiber
Funding
Luján Presses NTIA’s New Chief to Act on Broadband Funds ‘Day One’
Restoring digital equity and broadband funds should be Roth's first act as Administrator, Luján says.
Broadband Mapping and Data
Sens. Fischer, Cortez Mastro Introduce MAP for Broadband Funding Act
Bill pushes FCC to improve functionality and and transparency of broadband spending map
AI
Senators Confront Benefits of AI in Finance and Insurance Markets
Witnesses expressed support for Trump’s AI Action Plan
Digital Inclusion
NYC Mayor Announces Program to Deliver Free and Low-Cost Wi-Fi to Low-Income Residents
‘Liberty Link’ will serve 2,200 households across 35 affordable housing buildings
FCC
FCC Plans to Scrap Biden-era Gigabit Broadband Goal
The proposal is scheduled for a vote on August 7
build-america
FCC Unanimously Approves Measure to Speed Transition from Copper Lines
Commission advances Carr’s deregulatory ‘Build America’ agenda
NTIA
22 House Democrats Slam Trump Administration Overhaul of BEAD
Letter accuses Commerce Secretary of defying Congress' intent, threatening rural connectivity
Rural
California Bill Modernizing 'Carrier of Last Resort' Rules Advances
AB 470 clears Senate committee by a 9–1 vote
AI
White House to Unveil AI Action Plan
Policies aim to boost energy supply, streamline permitting, and rein in state-level AI regulation.
Free Speech
Markey, Schumer Slam FCC for ‘Double Standard’ on Media Investigations
Senators urge FCC to end CBS probe, citing misleading Fox News’ edits
FCC
Broadcasters to FCC: Expand Who Pays Regulatory Fees
NAB says legacy media shoulders too much of FCC’s costs
