Feds throw Washington's $1.2B broadband program into disarray
Washington utilities, tribes, counties and others have spent years planning how to use the state’s $1.2 billion chunk of a federal program to improve high-speed internet access.
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The program originally favored expanding fiber-optic cables, but the new rules require a “technology neutral” stance because “the full force of the competitive marketplace must be utilized,” according to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.
This agnostic approach creates room for satellite, fixed wireless and other technologies, which has the potential to send billions more to Elon Musk’s Redmond-based Starlink internet service. Musk served previously as a top adviser to President Donald Trump and spent upward of $200 million to help get Trump elected last year.
The BEAD program was created under the federal infrastructure law that former President Joe Biden signed in 2021. It was fashioned as a way to expand high-speed internet service into rural areas and other parts of the country where it was unavailable or lacking.
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2025/06/27/feds-throw-washingtons-1-2b-broadband-program-into-disarray/
Crony capitalism at its finest. Big Donny trying throw money Musk's way.
This is in my wheelhouse since I was in the telecommunications business for 45 years.
Satellite internet is useful if you live way out in a rural area. It is not so affordable otherwise.
Compare the cost of Starlink to Comcast, Ziply Fiber or Quantum Fiber (Lumen). You'll see that Starlink is not the affordable option.