The U.S. Commerce Department plans to announce reforms to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding program around mid-May. Blair Levin, a former FCC team leader, mentioned four potential options, with emphasis on two likely to be favored: states rebidding and shifting focus from fiber to satellite allocations. Meanwhile, several states have already announced awardees, and others are still accepting applications. The proposed reforms aim to enhance broadband access in unserved and underserved areas, but may face political pushback, especially concerning federal oversight.
The first two options of requiring rebids and imposing federal thresholds are expected to be favored, as they could help ensure the funds are allocated effectively.
Under the anticipated reforms, states might be given the chance to eliminate certain requirements while still allowing awarded applications to stand with minor adjustments.
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