Unlicensed Wireless Will Help BEAD Succeed for All

The following statement may be attributed to Louis Peraertz, VP of Policy, WISPA – The Association for Broadband Without Boundaries: 

Washington, DC, September 10, 2024 – WISPA appreciates NTIA’s acknowledgement that “alternative technologies,” such as unlicensed fixed wireless (ULFW), will be necessary for states to maximize BEAD funding and realize “Internet for All.”  The agency’s proposed guidance – which now enlists the support of ULFW providers who can meet BEAD baseline technical and other standards, and allows such providers to have more opportunity to seek BEAD subgrants – will directly result in more unserved communities coming online with affordable and reliable broadband access.  NTIA’s proposal also will limit needless overbuilding of BEAD-compliant ULFW networks, both protecting public and private investment made to serve communities in the digital divide and making BEAD funds go even further.

WISPA believes these proposals, along with specific recommendations WISPA has made to NTIA, will help BEAD succeed.  We look forward to seeing NTIA’s final guidance so states have more tools and flexibility for their diverse BEAD deployments.

A copy of WISPA’s filing can be obtained here.

Celebrating 20 Years of WISPA – Broadband Without Boundaries
WISPA’s approximately 1000 members provide fixed broadband connectivity and include equipment suppliers, support services, and other industry partners and stakeholders. Our members provide broadband access to millions of residential and business customers in rural, urban, and Tribal areas across America.

Contact
Mike Wendy
WISPA
202-763-5257
mwendy@wispa.org