Focusing BEAD on Satellite Over Fiber Not Wise Long-Term: Connect Humanity

Having states redo their BEAD programs in light of Commerce moving away from a fiber-centric approach (see 2503050067) could cause delays of "a year plus," community broadband nonprofit Connect Humanity blogged last week. Easing use of alternative technologies like satellite broadband is "like replacing a bridge with a ferry service -- cheaper in the short term, but less effective and far more costly over the long haul," it said. A fiber focus doesn't preclude the use of other technologies, but BEAD funding "should continue to prioritize fiber as the most effective, durable infrastructure to connect America."