A Republican senator has renewed a legislative effort that began in 2022, to direct the Commerce Department’s NTIA to develop a clear national broadband strategy. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) has reintroduced the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act.
The legislation mandates NTIA, which is managing the $42.5 billion BEAD program, to create a national strategy to bridge the digital divide, along with a plan for implementation. Previous reports from the Government Accountability Office noted that federal broadband efforts are fragmented and overlapping, Inside Towers reported. The GAO recommended the executive branch develop the national broadband strategy outlined in this bill.
Senator Wicker stated that the PLAN for Broadband Act aims to avoid inefficient spending and improve communication and coordination among agencies responsible for broadband initiatives.
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