• A report from ACLP indicates a significant decrease (57% average) in BEAD-eligible locations across 46 states.
• The decrease is attributed to investments by ISPs and grant-funded projects like the American Rescue Plan and the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund.
• The report suggests potential overfunding due to the reduced number of eligible locations, prompting calls for reallocation of funds.

A new report by the Advanced Communications Law & Policy Institute (ACLP) at New York Law School reveals a substantial decline in the number of locations eligible for funding through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The report, which analyzed data from 46 states, found an average decrease of 57% in locations considered underserved or lacking internet access since the initial allocations in 2023. This decline is attributed to ongoing investments by internet service providers (ISPs) and the impact of grant-funded projects.

• What: A report reveals that the number of locations eligible for BEAD funding has decreased significantly.
• Who: The report was released by the Advanced Communications Law & Policy Institute (ACLP) at New York Law School. Key players include the NTIA, FCC, and internet service providers.
• When: The report was released on Wednesday. Data analyzed covers the period from 2022 to 2024, with FCC data gathered last June 30.
• Where: The analysis covers 46 states in the United States.

The significant reduction in BEAD-eligible locations, as highlighted by the ACLP report, suggests that the U.S. is making progress in closing the digital divide. However, the potential for overfunding raises concerns about the efficient allocation of resources. The report's recommendation to reallocate excess funds to states with greater needs or to return the funds to the Treasury appears to be a logical approach to maximizing the impact of the BEAD program. The discussion around the 'fiber first' stipulations and the potential role of satellite internet providers also underscores the need for flexibility and adaptability in addressing connectivity challenges in isolated or difficult-to-reach areas.

The ACLP report paints a mixed picture of the BEAD program's progress. While the decrease in eligible locations suggests that broadband availability is improving, the potential for overfunding necessitates a careful review of funding allocations. The ongoing debate regarding technology choices, particularly the role of satellite internet, further complicates the landscape. The future of BEAD will likely depend on the ability of the NTIA and individual states to adapt to changing circumstances and ensure that funds are used effectively to achieve universal broadband access.