What's on the agenda for policymakers.
Agenda
The Economics of Universal Service Fund Reform
Two broad proposals have been advanced to modernize the Universal Service Fund's contributions system: 1) expanding the contribution base to include revenues from broadband internet access service, and 2) broadening the USF contribution base to include entities including edge providers such as streaming video providers, digital advertising firms, and cloud services companies. The most economically efficient option for reform is to expand the contribution base to include broadband internet access service revenues.
Vital program keeps low-income families online
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored that access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury, and the need to connect all Washingtonians is urgent. Unfortunately, a critical service established to help low-income Americans get online, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), will disappear if Congress refuses to fund the program in 2023.
Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) is a once-in-a-generation funding opportunity to promote high-speed internet access for underserved and unserved communities. The grant aims to bridge the digital divide by providing resources to state, local, and tribal governments, non-profit organizations, and for-profit companies to support the deployment and expansion of broadband infrastructure.
Nearly one third of Americans do not have access to broadband, and experts say addressing this digital divide will require cooperation between public and private entities. A discussion with broadband decision-makers on how they are working to reduce the hurdles toward a fully connected country.
7:45am ET | Doors open
7:45am - 8:15am ET | Breakfast available
8:15am - 9:15am ET | Mainstage conversations
11th Annual SHLB Conference. The program offers a diverse range of topics in the broadband space, including ACP, E-rate, and tribal libraries.
Witnesses
Jonathan Spalter, President and CEO, USTelecom — The Broadband Association
Justin Forde, Vice President of Government Relations, MidCo
Texans to vote on statewide broadband funding in November
Texas could have nearly $5 billion directed toward expanding broadband availability statewide if voters approve a state constitutional amendment on the ballot in November. Texas will receive more than $3.3 billion in federal money—more than any other state—to help expand broadband access.
EU technology-specific industrial policy: The case of 5G and 6G.
The European Commission has recognized early on the disruptive potential of 5G and later 6G.
T-Mobile in Talks to Make Big Broadband Bet With Move Into Fiber
T-Mobile is in discussions with Tilman FiberCo to build out a fiber-optic network, setting the stage for the company to enter the landline broadband business. This would be the biggest bet T-Mobile has made in fiber-optic infrastructure, and put it in competiton with cable providers. A deal would make T-Mobile an anchor tenant in a newly formed infrastructure joint venture between Tillman FiberCo and private equity firm Northleaf Capital Partners. Under the agreement, Tillman—financed by Northleaf—would build out network infrastructure to various neighborhoods and business districts and fil
The inaugural Florida Broadband Summit will bring together industry leaders, local government officials, workforce and economic development professionals, and community advocates to discuss the expansion of broadband and its impact on infrastructure, business, and job growth in Florida.