Only two states have completed most of the steps necessary to receive federal funding designed to provide high-speed broadband nationwide, Louisiana and Virginia. Texas is among 21 eligible entities that have completed two phases.
The funds come from the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which prioritizes projects that deliver high-speed internet to areas that previously did not have broadband access.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is overseeing the distribution – more than $42.45 billion – to all 50 states, Washington, D.C, and five territories. In June, the NTIA released how much each state and territory would receive. Those entities must now create proposals to receive the funds.
These initial proposals will identify areas where residents need access to affordable broadband as well as at key neighborhood locations, known as Community Anchor Institutions, such as schools, libraries and health centers. Additionally, states must develop five-year plans summarizing long-term goals.
The proposal process involves eight steps that includes creating two proposal volumes, public comment periods and approval from the NTIA. The deadline to have all eight steps completed is Dec. 27.
