California
California Activates Nation’s Largest Middle-Mile Network, Connecting Tribal, Rural Areas
The Bishop Paiute Tribe is the first to access the state’s $3.2 billion broadband effort spanning 8,000 miles of fiber.
Tribal
Tribal leaders say the federal government has failed to uphold its trust responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of Native American tribes.
Tribal
Fiber Group Says Broadband Key to Closing Connectivity Gap on Tribal Lands
A new report says fiber networks can support economic growth, healthcare access, and long-term resilience in Tribal communities.
Tribal
Bois Forte Band Begins Construction on $20 Million Tribal Fiber Project
The ambitious undertaking is supported by a $20 million grant awarded under the 2021 Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program.
NTIA
FirstNet Reauthorization Bill Passes House Committee Unanimously
The bipartisan bill will now move to the full House Energy and Commerce Committee.
Tribal
NTIA Recommends $6.5M in Tribal Broadband Awards
Tribal consultations in January will help shape updates to the broadband program, NTIA says.
NTIA
Previously Recommended Tribal Broadband Awards Rejected
Previously recommended applicants had been tentatively accepted, but funds were not officially earmarked, for Tribal projects
Tribal
Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Expand Universal Service Fund Coverage in Indian Country
Bill would amend the Communications Act to formally include Tribal communities in universal service.
Spectrum
Tribal Groups Urge FCC to Add Licensing Window in Upper C-Band Auction
Letter urges a special filing window to expand broadband on native lands.
NTIA
New Rules for Tribal Broadband Program Planned for Spring 2026, NTIA Says
The agency said no more awards would be made under current rules, and that previously announced awards would not be rescinded.
Tribal
Regional Fiber Broadband Association Deep Dive Into Tribal Broadband
Tribal leaders and industry experts gathered to address the unique permitting challenges and opportunities for fiber broadband in Arizona.
Expert Opinion
Ray Diaz: How Broadband Connects Tribal Communities to Broader Opportunities
Despite federal funding efforts, 24 percent of Americans on Tribal lands still lack broadband access, limiting economic opportunity and essential services.
Tribal
New Mexico Make Small Awards to Assist Broadband Planning
The Pueblo of Pojoaque plan to use its grant to improve service mapping.
Infrastructure
Interior Department Office Plans to Expedite Broadband Efforts in Tribal Communities
The Interior Department announced a new policy to speed approval of broadband projects in tribal communities.
BEAD
Minnesota Broadband Chief on BEAD Challenges, State Investments, and Tribal Partnerships
While BEAD changes complicated Minnesota’s broadband plan, state investments and tribal partnerships remain strong.
Tribal
Hoopa Valley Tribe Partners With State for High-Speed Internet Backbone
The project represents the first joint-build agreement between a tribal group and the California Department of Technology.
Rural
Ookla Finds Stark Differences in Tribal Broadband Performances
Tribal Nations continue to push for better connectivity.
