The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has approved 56 states and territories to advance to the 'Benefit of the Bargain' round of the BEAD Program. New guidelines dictate adjustments to Initial Proposals, aiming for effective use of the $42.5 billion funding. The program now prioritizes selecting the lowest-cost applicant and eliminates previous technology hierarchy for eligible projects. Any technology meeting specifications of sustainable broadband with defined speed requirements can be considered. Final Proposals must be submitted by September 4 to ensure participation in this funding opportunity.
The NTIA approved all 56 states and territories to proceed with the BEAD 'Benefit of the Bargain' round, facilitating subgrantee selection for broadband expansion.
The NTIA updated guidelines for the BEAD program in June, emphasizing the urgency of modifying Initial Proposals to align with new investment priorities and compliance.
Under new regulations, the process favors the selection of the lowest cost applicant, replacing the original preference for fiber technology within proposal evaluations.
The revised criteria include the achievement of minimum download and upload speeds of 100 Mbps and 20 Mbps, ensuring projects are sustainable for at least 10 years.
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