Feds’ Fiber First Policy Slows Deployment, Report Says

Most states’ plans to deploy broadband with funds from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s BEAD Program have room for improvement, according to a new report from a technology think tank.

Released Monday, the report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation analyzed 34 state funding proposals submitted to the NTIA, giving the majority a “B” grade and making the case that states should go beyond spending solely on fiber-optic network deployment and focus on digital literacy and navigation as well.

“First, states should plan to rely on a range of technologies to maximize their broadband coverage, from fiber optic networks to low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites where the cost of a fixed connection is prohibitive,” the report argues. “Second, states should create a streamlined regulatory environment that minimizes funds wasted on overcoming disjointed policies of inefficient regulations. Third, states should express a focus on — and articulate a plan for — digital inclusion within their BEAD plans.”