Expert Opinion
Starlink and DOGE: The $42 Billion Conflict of Interest in Rural Broadband
This combination casts doubt on the government's ability to be truly 'technology neutral'.
BEAD
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.
Community Broadband
Carson, California, Breaks Ground On New Municipal Fiber Network
Officials say the first phase of the city’s network will install over 100,000 feet of new fiber optic cable.
BEAD
Rhode Island Open for BEAD Applications
The deadline for submissions is May 9.
BEAD
States Advance BEAD Subgrantee Selection Amid Federal Uncertainty
New Mexico, Hawaii report strong provider interest as more states move to prepare final proposals.
BEAD
West Virginia ‘Looking Closely’ at a Tech Neutral BEAD Plan Amid Review
The state is reworking its final proposal but hasn't asked ISPs to resubmit grant applications.
Expert Opinion
Tom Reid: Common-Sense Solutions to Closing the Digital Divide in Rural America
The BEAD investment offers great hope to rural America where we have been stuck in the digital divide since the beginning of the Internet age.
Funding
Digital Divide Closing in South Carolina, State Says
'Nearly all of these newly constructed locations now have access to fiber,' says state broadband director
Benton
State Legislators: Don’t Upend BEAD
A bipartisan group of 115 legislators from 28 states urged caution as the Trump administration mulls rule changes.
Expert Opinion
Jessica Dine: So You Want BEAD to Be Tech Neutral?
BEAD should use all technologies, but not all technologies are equal.
Wireless
T-Mobile Supports Petitions Against 5G Fund, Verizon Opposes
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr opposed moving forward with the $9 billion fund as a commissioner.
BEAD
Minnesota: Keep BEAD Fast and Grounded in Local Expertise
State seeks shot clock for federal reviews and greater trust in state-led broadband plans.
Iowa
Iowa Urged to Prioritize Fiber Ahead of Arrival of $415 Million in BEAD Money
Wulfsen argued that fiber is a better long-term investment than satellite.
IIJA
House Bill Could Open Appalachian Broadband Funds to Starlink
GAO study would evaluate whether the Appalachian Regional Commission should fund LEO providers.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Bill Seeks to Lower Broadband Labor Costs by Reclassifying Workers
Pickett argues that the current classification inflates broadband deployment costs.
Michigan
Michigan Bill Seeks to Exempt Broadband Grants From State Taxes
Even in more connected areas, access rates remain below the national average of 90%.
BEAD
West Virginia Reworking BEAD Proposal Amid Trump-Driven Program Overhaul
State delays final BEAD proposal to reconsider technology mix under Trump administration’s revised priorities.
