Open government

Common Cause submitted comments in response to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)’s Request for Comment on the implementation of broadband programs found within the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Common Cause's recommendations include:

The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation (RWDF) submitted comments to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) highlighting the need to connect broadband infrastructure programs to systemic inequity. In doing so, the Foundation elevated the needs of BIPOC communities who face compounded social inequalities in an increasingly digitized world.

US Ignite responded to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) request for comments on broadband programs created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Without in-depth technical assistance for State Broadband Offices (SBOs), combined with rapid local government support, this new Federal grant program will remain out of reach for too many underserved communities. To meet their goals, NTIA must collaborate with nonprofit coordinating bodies, like US Ignite, to support SBOs in their efforts to reach these underserved communities.

The Technology Policy Institute recommends that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA):

With the closure of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)’s public feedback period on how best to allocate an upcoming $48 billion in broadband infrastructure grants, here are some key comments Politico noticed:

Public Knowledge and TURN submitted comments to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) regarding the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. "To successfully implement the [BEAD Program], NTIA must prioritize building future-proof, open access, and municipal networks, and ensure those networks are built with high-quality jobs and adherence to net neutrality principles," said the comments.

AARP submitted comments to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) urging the agency to encourage states to integrate digital literacy programs and data-driven planning into their funding strategies for programs created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. "AARP looks forward to partnering with NTIA during the upcoming years to support NTIA’s effective disbursement and oversight of the significant increase in public monies to advance broadband deployment and digital equity," stated AARP in its comments.

INCOMPAS, the internet and competitive networks association, filed comments with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) urging the Department of Commerce to enshrine competition laws into the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act implementation to ensure all Americans have access to faster speeds and future proof networks at more affordable prices. The INCOMPAS filing details a road map to help NTIA deliver on the promise of connecting all Americans to better internet services while creating jobs, attracting investment and unleashing innovation.

The Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) tasks the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) with developing rules for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Next Century Cities (NCC) submitted comments to the NTIA encouraging the agency to work closely with local governments and community-based organizations that support new collaborations and build public awareness.