BEAD
Uncertain Reactions to the Executive Order on AI and BEAD Non-Deployment Funds
Experts said tying the funding to favorable state AI laws could raise legal issues, but states weren’t certain to litigate.
AI
White House Issues Order Pledging to Withhold BEAD Funds From States With 'Onerous' AI Laws
Order tones down language of leaked draft, but continues restriction on dispensing remaining BEAD funds to states with 'onerous' AI laws.
Spectrum
Lawmakers Unveil Defense Bill Without Spectrum Veto Language, AI Moratorium
President Donald Trump said he would sign an executive order on AI this week.
AI
Scalise: No AI Moratorium in National Defense Authorization Act
President Donald Trump is still eager to preempt state AI laws.
Digital Inclusion
NTIA to Review Federal Spending on Broadband, Tech for Education
The agency is holding an online listening session on the issue Dec. 10.
FCC
California Petitions FCC to Restore Funding for Off-Campus Wi-Fi
FCC’s September rollback of hotspot and school bus Wi-Fi support ‘abrupt and unfounded,’ CPUC says.
AI
Draft Executive Order Would Tie Non-Deployment Funding to State AI Regulation
The draft would direct NTIA to withhold funds if states regulate AI companies too heavily.
Rural
FCC Chair Offers Few Specifics on Universal Service Reforms
NTCA’s Bloomfield worries Carr’s push for USF ‘efficiency’ could hurt rural providers
Defense Department
CTIA Wants Defense Bill Spectrum Language Cut
The group joins Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Rep. Richard Hudson, R-N.C., and the White House.
Free Speech
Senate Commerce Schedules FCC Oversight Hearing
Session follows bipartisan concern over Chairman Brendan Carr’s perceived threats toward broadcast licensees.
Meta
‘Jawboning’ Debate Resumes over Big Tech and Government Power
Both parties pointed at the other for coercing online platforms.
Free Speech
Senate Commerce Free Speech Hearing Targets Government Pressure
Cruz’s upcoming hearing will feature executives from Google, Meta, and the Foundation for Individual Rights.
BEAD
Fischer Wants More Fiber for Nebraska from Trump’s Commerce Department
The Republican Senator did not comment on BEAD non-deployment funding.
Commerce
Senate Commerce Moves to Boost Foreign Investment in High-Tech Sectors
Committee also advances bill to counter cybersecurity risks in oil and gas pipelines.
Spectrum
Spectrum Fight Flares in Defense Bill Negotiations
Opponents warn outcome could hinder U.S. spectrum auctions and innovation.
Digital Inclusion
Mission Telecom to Maintain E-Rate Prices for Off-Campus Wi-Fi After FCC Withdraws Support
Nonprofit carrier offers to help offset lost federal subsidies for 1,280 schools and libraries.
