SUMMARY

In recent remarks at the Hudson Institute on October 28, 2025, Assistant Secretary Arielle Roth shared an update on how the NTIA has been working to minimize potential defaults by sub-awardees as well as how broadband will be delivered to all. In her remarks, Roth reaffirmed that BEAD-funded broadband projects must be self-sustaining — without future reliance on federal subsidies such as the Universal Service Fund (USF) — read the full story here. To safeguard program integrity, NTIA will require providers to certify in writing that they will not seek or accept additional federal subsidies, including USF support, to complete or operate BEAD projects.

Roth went on to add states must avoid any regulatory barriers that would increase costs or deter investment, such as rate regulation and state-level net neutrality mandates. Roth made it clear that dictating retail rates undermines provider flexibility, could discourage participation, and possibly raise the risk of failed projects. The NTIA is also prioritizing efficiency by providing streamlined permitting and a new environmental tracking tool, all designed to speed approvals and reduce delays. 

THIS MAY APPLY TO YOU IF…

• Your company has been provisionally awarded BEAD funding.
• Your award covers locations where you are currently receiving federal subsidies, as awardees unwilling to make a commitment regarding this will be ineligible for BEAD awards. Service areas tied to awardees unwilling to certify will instead be offered to providers that can operate without ongoing subsidy support.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?

• Awardees must future-proof their networks by demonstrating full financial independence with projects.
• BEAD recipients cannot plan on USF support or other federal operational subsidies for the awarded area.
• Recipients must also clearly establish viability based on revenue, match, and operational efficiency.

ACTION ITEMS & TIMELINE

• In the coming weeks, NTIA plans to approve several state plans with the majority of the states to follow before the end of the year. 
• Awardees will have to agree to these commitments prior to being awarded funds under this program.