BEAD's Tech-Neutral Shift Sparks Controversy: Starlink Could Reap Billions
2025-03-06
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program's shift to a technology-neutral approach is sparking controversy. Critics argue this change, abandoning the initial preference for fiber optics, will leave millions with slower, less reliable, and more expensive broadband. The shift could funnel billions in subsidies towards satellite internet providers like Starlink, potentially at the expense of fiber infrastructure development. Republicans are also pushing for legislative changes to remove what they see as burdensome regulations imposed by the Biden administration. Ultimately, state governments will distribute funds to ISPs, although the exact allocation remains uncertain.