MADISON, WI. — The future for $21 billion in federal non-deployment broadband funds remains unknown as the National Telecommunications and Information Administration misses its “end of summer” guidance deadline.
Representative Randy Udell (D-47th District) released the following statement:
“This week marks the official end of summer, meaning the NTIA has failed to meet yet another deadline for guidance on state use of broadband non-deployment funds. After missing their March 11th deadline, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick suggested that funding would finally be available by the end of this summer. Now, $360 million are still being withheld from Wisconsin, further harming rural areas and people who need broadband expansion and support.
“Broadband non-deployment funds, originally allocated in 2021 by the Biden administration, can improve internet access, services, and affordability in rural areas. These funds can also aid digital skills training, provide those in need with internet-accessible devices, and improve public communication systems. The Trump administration’s refusal to provide Wisconsin with this funding continues to hurt rural citizens and businesses.
“It is past time for the NTIA to release these overdue, Congressionally-allocated funds to the people of Wisconsin.”
