Education
Workforce Shortages Threaten BEAD Deployments: Broadband Breakfast Panelists
Workforce development experts warn that critical shortages could significantly slow the nationwide deployment of broadband.
The Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program is a $42.45 billion initiative administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration of the U.S. Commerce Department. Established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, BEAD aims to expand high-speed Internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs.
Education
Workforce development experts warn that critical shortages could significantly slow the nationwide deployment of broadband.
Maine
Despite the administration’s withholding funding under the Digital Equity Act in 2025, the report notes progress on last mile deployment.
BEAD
Approved grants cover nearly 40,000 of the state’s 127,000 BEAD locations.
NTIA
NTIA Administrator cited cost savings, preparations for WRC-27 and future wireless networks.
NTIA
State proposes launching broadband subsidy program by 2027
BEAD
NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth has said she would support permitting reform as one potential use for the funds.
Maine
Maine Connect Authority president criticized what he called ‘surprisingly outdated’ thinking behind the bill.
Rural
South Central Connect walks away from 13 census block groups.
BEAD
Lawmakers would ask for a briefing on the agency's “plans and timeline for expending all remaining” BEAD funds.
12 Days of Broadband
Based on tentative results, about 65% of BEAD locations are in line for fiber. Another 22% will get satellite, and 10% will get fixed wireless.
12 Days of Broadband
In spite of the political salience of 'affordability,' federal rollbacks, industry pressure, and stalled state efforts took a toll on low-income Americans' broadband.
12 Days of Broadband
As states complete their broadband spending plans, a fight is brewing over the remaining $21 billion.
BEAD
Maine has registered 500 participants for its Working Internet ASAP program.
BEAD
Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Utah had their final proposals approved.
BEAD
The SUCCESS for BEAD Act would allow more spending on infrastructure, but didn’t specify adoption or affordability efforts.
BEAD
The bill would allow states to spend the money on wholesale fiber, workforce development, and mobile wireless infrastructure, among other things.