Introduction to the BEAD Program

Evan Feinman, the director of the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, which aims to provide high-speed internet access to rural areas, has stepped down from his role after not being reappointed for a new term, as reported by ProPublica’s Craig Silverman. Feinman expressed his concerns about the potential changes to the program proposed by the new administration, which may prioritize technologies that offer slower speeds at higher costs, ultimately benefiting Elon Musk.

Background and Recent Developments

The BEAD Program was established in 2021, with the goal of connecting rural areas to high-speed internet. However, the new Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, has announced plans to overhaul the program, citing its ineffectiveness in connecting people to the internet under the previous administration. Lutnick has called for a "tech-neutral stance," which would eliminate the preference for faster fiber connections and potentially shift the focus towards satellite internet, such as Elon Musk’s Starlink. Lutnick has also criticized "woke mandates, favoritism towards certain technologies, and burdensome regulations."

Concerns and Warnings

In an email shared on Bluesky, Feinman warned his colleagues about the potential consequences of the proposed changes, which could lead to a shift away from fiber connections and towards satellite internet. He urged them to speak out against "needless requirements" but emphasized the importance of maintaining a focus on fiber connections. Feinman stated that the new administration’s proposed changes would "ignore the clear direction laid out by Congress, reduce the number of American homes and businesses that get fiber connections, and increase the number that get satellite connections." He believes that this shift would be a disservice to rural and small-town America, and that prioritizing satellite internet over fiber would unfairly benefit Elon Musk at the expense of these communities.

Conclusion

The BEAD Program’s future is uncertain, and the potential changes proposed by the new administration have raised concerns among its supporters. Feinman’s warnings highlight the importance of prioritizing fiber connections and ensuring that the program serves the needs of rural and small-town America, rather than benefiting private interests. As the program undergoes changes, it is crucial to consider the potential consequences and ensure that the final outcome aligns with the original goals of the BEAD Program.