Concerns are rising among fiber internet providers regarding the Biden administration's commitment to funding under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, initially aimed at expanding internet access in rural areas. With BEAD's future uncertain due to administrative changes and potential shifts towards satellite services, providers like Cajun Broadband, which was awarded $33 million, fear losing crucial support. This change could derail ongoing investments in fiber infrastructure, resulting in delays and wasted resources, undermining the reliability and speed benefits fiber offers compared to satellite solutions.
Many companies relying on funds from BEAD have already invested a significant amount of money in fiber expansion... a potential shift toward satellite means people won't benefit from the speed and reliability associated with fiber.
Cajun Broadband was granted $33 million as part of the plan, but the 'money isn't flowing' and concerns are growing over whether the new administration will prioritize satellite internet services.
BEAD director Evan Feinman left the Commerce Department last month... Trump-appointed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick plans to overhaul the program, citing 'woke mandates, favoritism towards certain technologies'.
A shift away from fiber could 'force all the states to rerun processes,' which would mean 'millions of private capital is in the garbage'.
Collection
[
|
...
]