WISPA Encouraged by NTIA Statement on Unlicensed Wireless in BEAD

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

Washington, DC, July 30, 2024 – WISPA is encouraged by statements made yesterday by Assistant Secretary of Commerce and NTIA Administrator, Alan Davidson, that he expects states and territories will be able to use BEAD funds to deploy networks using alternative technologies, such as networks using entirely unlicensed spectrum, where other technologies cannot cost-effectively meet the goals of the Infrastructure Act.  WISPA has long held that BEAD’s programmatic exclusion of unlicensed technology was at odds with Congressional intent, potentially leaving many behind in the digital divide.  WISPA believes that BEAD can only succeed if unlicensed technology can be deployed – not only in extremely high-cost per location threshold areas, but elsewhere where it makes sense.  Americans on the wrong side of the digital divide cannot wait years to get access.  They need it as soon as possible.  WISPA looks forward to commenting on the soon to be released guidance from NTIA on alternative technologies.

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