At least two states — Maine and Minnesota — have contacted the U.S. Department of Commerce concerning the changes that may be made to the $42.45 billion the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
Here’s the Minnesota action…
Minnesota’s suggestions about BEAD came via a letter to Lutnick from Bree Maki, the Executive Director of the Minnesota Office of Broadband Development. The requested “volume 2” changes are a reduction or elimination of program and reporting requirements she characterized as “excessive.” The letter also requested four administrative task changes.
“Any changes enacted by NTIA should be optional and states should have the flexibility to make the changes they need to be successful in their state,” Maki wrote. “We are confident that the modifications and priorities we are requesting will not only improve Minnesota’s ability to strategically and effectively implement the BEAD Program but also serve as a model for other states seeking similar enhancements.”