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.

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.

BEAD-eligible entities – the 56 states, territories, and the District of Columbia – are required to submit for NTIA’s approval an Initial Proposal detailing how they plan to spend their BEAD allocation to deliver high-speed Internet access to all unserved and underserved locations within their borders. All states submitted their initial proposals by Dec. 27, 2023.

One year from Initial Proposal approval, states must submit a Final Proposal that details, among other things, the outcome of the subgrantee selection process and how the state will ensure universal coverage.

“Today’s announcement is a significant step forward in realizing our mission to connect the unconnected and empower all Arkansans to self-determine their success in the 21st century digital economy,” said Glen Howie, director of the Arkansas State Broadband Office. “Once NTIA subsequently approves the state’s mapping challenge process results, the Arkansas State Broadband Office stands ready to move quickly and launch the next round of broadband infrastructure grants.”