Lawmakers Request Clarity on Non-Deployment Funds

On August 25, 2025, a group of 10 House Democrats, led by Rep April McClain Delaney (D-MD), wrote to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and National Telecommunications and Information Administration administrator Arielle Roth  regarding Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program non-deployment funds. Specifically, the lawmakers requested formal clarification as to how States can use leftover BEAD funding for non-deployment activities. They wrote, "Broadband deployment is critical; however, its long-term success requires parallel investments in the foundational nondeployment activities that enable effective implementation and adoption. Workforce development and employment, digital safety education, support for remote learning and telehealth and the other nondeployment activities approved under the original Notice of Funding Opportunity are foundational to delivering secure, high-speed internet to our most underserved communities. Nondeployment investments don’t simply complement infrastructure but rather they strengthen States’ projects and holistic connectivity. Providing clear guidance about whether nondeployment activities are eligible uses of BEAD funding empowers States to make responsible, impactful decisions that advance the core objectives of the BEAD Program: digital equity, affordability, adoption, and access." They requested a reply to the letter by September 2, 2025.