Arkansas 'Internet for All' plan approved by feds
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved the second volume of Arkansas’ initial proposal for the BEAD [Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment] program, according to a release from the Biden Administration and Gov. Sarah Sanders.
By: Talk Business & Politics staff
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved the second volume of Arkansas’ initial proposal for the BEAD [Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment] program, according to a release from the Biden Administration and Gov. Sarah Sanders.
The approval enables Arkansas to request more than $1 billion in funding and begin implementation of the state’s BEAD proposal. Volume 2 of the BEAD initial proposal details the state of Arkansas’ plans for operating its broadband infrastructure grant program, requirements for potential applicants, and nondeployment priorities. The Volume 2 document addresses 16 requirements related to the BEAD program, including program objectives, planning processes, local coordination, and workforce readiness.
“Reliable internet coverage is becoming a necessity for Arkansans’ jobs, schools, and businesses and closing the internet service gap is a major priority for my administration, and today’s announcement is a big step forward in our plans to address the issue,” said Gov. Sanders.
“Increasing the availability of affordable and accessible broadband to all corners of the state, including rural and underserved communities, is crucial for growing economic opportunities for Arkansans,” said Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald. “Broadband is a modern necessity and expanded access will enable innovative Arkansans to grow businesses, launch new ventures, and build wealth and jobs right here in the Natural State.”
The BEAD program is a $42.45 billion federal grant program. NTIA allocated a portion of these funds to each state to deploy or upgrade internet networks to expand access to reliable, affordable, high-speed internet service. Once Arkansas meets its deployment goals, the state can use any remaining funding on high-speed internet adoption, training, and workforce development efforts, among other eligible uses.
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