NTIA and RUS seek Input on Final Round of Broadband Stimulus Funding

The Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and the Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) are seeking public input on certain issues relating to the implementation of the Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP) and the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) to inform a second and final round of funding. In particular, the agencies seek to gather information that will help them improve the broadband programs by enhancing the applicant experience and making targeted revisions to the first Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA), if necessary. The agencies are seeking input on the application and review process and specific policy issues raised in the funding notice. Comments are due in approximately two weeks.