Expert Opinion
Bill Maguire: Leveraging BEAD 'Non-Deployment' Funds for Permitting Reform
NTIA may allow states to use BEAD non-deployment funds for permitting reforms and pole-attachment programs to accelerate broadband deployment.
NTIA
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration, an agency within the U.S. Department Commerce, is responsible for implementing the bipartisan infrastructure legislation, including managing federal broadband funding programs to expand high-speed internet access.
Mobile
Tech Group Says Seamless, Widespread Connectivity more Important than Speed for 6G
The Open Technology Institute suggested more industry coordination on indoor/outdoor handoffs, and more mobile-satellite service spectrum.
NTIA
NTIA Listening Session on Non-Deployment Set for Feb. 11
The agency will take input to inform its 'future planning and policy development' around uses for the funds.
Funding
Trump Signs Law Allocating $51M for NTIA, Requires BEAD Funds Briefing in 30 Days
Lawmakers included language directing NTIA to brief Congress within 30 days on its plans for spending all remaining BEAD funds.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s GUMBO Program Delivers Fiber to Rural Allen Parish
Nearly 3,000 households gain high-speed internet through GUMBO 1.0
Commerce Department
Roth at CES: 42 States and Territories Approved for BEAD, Including Nevada
NTIA Administrator cited cost savings, preparations for WRC-27 and future wireless networks.
NTIA
New Mexico Unveils Plan to Expand Affordable Broadband
State proposes launching broadband subsidy program by 2027
Commerce
New Senate Bill Would Halt Federal Funding for Trump’s AI Executive Order
Legislation filed as an amendment to the upcoming Senate appropriations package.
LEO
NTIA Chief of Staff: 37 States Cleared to Build Under BEAD, Signals More
The shift followed a December executive order aligning broadband execution with federal artificial intelligence policy.
NTIA
Rep. Andy Barr Introduces House Companion to Senate Non-Deployment Bill
Allows states to use BEAD funds on workforce, wholesale fiber, IXPs, and wireless infrastructure
Tribal
NTIA Recommends $6.5M in Tribal Broadband Awards
Tribal consultations in January will help shape updates to the broadband program, NTIA says.
Spectrum
White House Wants Portions of 7 GHz Band for Licensed Use
New Street’s Blair Levin said the memo suggested CBRS was less likely to be auctioned.
FBA
States Deemphasize Local and Rural Focus After BEAD Restructuring, Report Finds
Kaptivate analysis finds some states’ references to rural America dropped 80 to 100 percent
NTIA
New BEAD Rules Subject to Congressional Review, GAO Finds
Congress should have received a report before the rules were issued, the watchdog said.
Public Safety
House Lawmakers Push for Upgraded 911 Networks
Bills propose federal grants for next-gen 911, enhanced satellite alerts, and improved FCC reporting
Spectrum
Budget Law’s Spectrum Auction Mandate Raises Stakes for Wi-Fi, CBRS
The legislation would task the NTIA with finding about 500 megahertz and the FCC with finding another 300 megahertz for auction.
