Communications and Technology subcommittee passes broadband scrutiny bill

A House subcommittee passed a bill April 1 to ensure that unused grant funds for two federal programs tasked with expanding access to broadband services across the country are returned to the US Treasury.

Rep Greg Walden (R-OR), chairman of the Communications and Technology subcommittee, said the legislation clarifies language that requires the programs to give back money awarded to projects that have been canceled. And it institutes a new requirement that would keep Congress in the loop regarding the awards. The bill refers to stimulus funds granted to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which administers the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program launched two years ago to support the expansion of broadband access to all communities. The legislation also applies to stimulus-funded grants made by the Rural Utility Service’s Broadband Initiatives Program. NTIA chief Lawrence Strickling and RUS administrator Jonathan Adelstein testified at the hearing. Both said that they welcomed the spirit of the bill, but added that its provisions are consistent with the agencies’ standard processes and current U.S. law.