Leftover federal funds from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program should be used by states to strengthen and sustain approved broadband projects, according to U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).
The senators on Dec. 18 proposed legislation that would authorize states to use BEAD program funds to advance digital infrastructure readiness and sustain U.S. leadership in innovation, according to a bill summary they released.
“The United States has seen success in developing AI and emerging technologies,” Sen. Wicker said. “These projects would help our rural Mississippi communities participate in these successes. Local leaders know best how to utilize these funds. We should give them the flexibility to ensure these federal investments provide adequate connection for every Mississippian as soon as possible.”
As the National Information and Telecommunications Administration continues approving states’ final deployment proposals, it is anticipated that many states will have a significant remaining balance from their original BEAD allocations, with current estimates showing roughly $20 billion to $22 billion in total across all 56 eligible entities, the summary says.
If enacted, the Supporting U.S. Critical Connectivity and Economic Strategy and Security for BEAD Act, also known as the SUCCESS for BEAD Act, S. 3565, would serve as a “Part II” to the BEAD program following the approval of state deployment plans, and would establish parameters and guidance for the permissible use of remaining, already-obligated funds to ensure the success of the BEAD program.
“As states finalize their BEAD deployment plans, many will have remaining resources that can and should be put to work supporting long-term success of these networks,” said Sen. Capito. “I’m glad to team up with Sen. Wicker to introduce this legislation, which provides clear guidance so states can invest these leftover dollars responsibly in areas like network resiliency, national security, public safety, and more.”
Specifically, S. 3565, which Sen. Wicker sponsored alongside lead original cosponsor Sen. Capito, would amend the BEAD program to allow states to use remaining BEAD funds for certain eligible uses, says the summary.
Such eligible uses would include wholesale fiber, conduit systems, and related infrastructure; internet exchange points; mobile wireless infrastructure; workforce development targeting initiatives related to broadband deployment, emerging technologies/AI, cybersecurity, and electrical sectors; submarine cable infrastructure, and next generation 911 (NG911) implementation or upgrades, among others.
The bill is supported by USTelecom-The Broadband Association, the Wireless Infrastructure Association, the Competitive Carriers Association, the Telecommunications Industry Association, and the Fiber Broadband Association.