NARUC Tells Feds: To Get BTOP Back on Track, Let States Lead

The Broadband Technology Opportunity Program can be put back on a faster schedule if state governments are used as a main points of contact for grant applicants, National Association of Regulatory Utilities Commissioners president Fred Butler of New Jersey and Communications Committee chairman Roy Baum of Oregon wrote Friday. The letter strongly reiterated NARUC's previously stated position, under which states would play a leading role in the screening process for grant applicants. The NARUC letter comes in response to the Obama administration's announcement last week of timelines for grant distribution that were later than expected. NARUC's approach will work faster, the group said: "Proceeding [with states in the lead] is likely to better position [NTIA and RUS] to release the funds months before the end of the year."