The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has authorized the submission of the state’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Final Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). This step brings California closer to securing up to $1.86 billion in federal funding aimed at expanding high-speed internet access throughout the state.
The BEAD Final Proposal details how California would use these funds to improve internet service for homes, businesses, and community centers that currently lack reliable access. The proposal targets unserved or underserved communities, including rural areas, Tribal lands, and low-income neighborhoods. If approved by NTIA, the funding will support broadband projects designed to address these gaps.
“Our BEAD Final Proposal is a major milestone in California’s work to close the digital divide,” said CPUC President Alice Reynolds. “We are positioning California to secure historic federal funding and bring reliable internet service to communities that have been left behind for far too long.”
Building on an earlier federally approved plan, the proposal includes a preliminary list of recommended broadband projects across the state. It incorporates updated broadband coverage data based on public feedback and proposes using a mix of technologies such as fiber, cable, fixed wireless, and satellite. The approach also emphasizes competitive bidding and cost controls to ensure value for taxpayers.
These efforts are expected to extend internet access statewide, reaching hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses. Commissioner Darcie L. Houck stated: “The BEAD Final Proposal we are submitting to the federal government will meaningfully close the digital divide. I am pleased that the BEAD Final Proposal will expand service to eligible locations in the state, and that most unserved households in California will receive priority broadband infrastructure that will provide fast, reliable, and affordable service for decades to come.”
To comply with updated federal rules promoting competition and technology neutrality under the BEAD program guidelines, CPUC redesigned its selection process so all qualified providers could compete equally if they met performance standards for speed and reliability. CPUC staff conducted public webinars, office hours, and published guides and FAQs throughout this process.
After submission of the proposal to NTIA for review, NTIA may either approve it or request revisions before giving final approval. Once approved by NTIA, California can proceed with awarding grants and starting construction on broadband projects statewide.
More information about CPUC’s role in regulating utilities can be found at www.cpuc.ca.gov.
