The NTIA has approved initial proposals for the BEAD program from Alaska, Ohio, California and Arkansas. BEAD is a cornerstone of the Administration’s “Internet for All” initiative. This approval enables these four states to request access to funding and begin BEAD implementation—a step towards closing the digital divide.
The action allows states to request:
- Alaska: Over $1 billion
- Ohio: Over $793 million
- California: Over $1.8 billion
- Arkansas: Over $1 billion
BEAD is a $42.45 billion federal grant program authorized by the bipartisan Infrastructure Law. NTIA allocated a portion of these funds to each state to deploy or upgrade internet networks. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used on high-speed internet adoption, training, and workforce development efforts, among other eligible uses.
BEAD-eligible entities—the 56 states, territories, and the District of Columbia—are required to submit for NTIA’s approval an initial proposal detailing how they plan to spend their BEAD allocation. NTIA will continue to announce approval of initial proposals on a rolling basis. One year from initial proposal approval, states must submit a final proposal that details, among other things, the outcome of the subgrantee selection process and how the state will ensure universal coverage.
By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief
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