The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has approved the submission of the state’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Final Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). This move positions California to potentially secure 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 intends to use these funds to extend reliable internet service to areas that currently lack adequate connectivity. These include rural regions, Tribal lands, and low-income neighborhoods. The proposal builds on a previous plan already approved by federal authorities and features a list of preliminary broadband projects recommended for funding across the state, updated broadband coverage data reflecting public feedback, and a range of technologies such as fiber, cable, fixed wireless, and satellite. The approach is designed to ensure cost-effectiveness through competitive bidding and strict cost controls.
“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.”
If NTIA approves the proposal, it is expected that hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses will gain access to improved internet services.
Commissioner Darcie L. Houck commented: “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 emphasizing competition and technology neutrality, CPUC redesigned its project selection process so all qualified providers could compete equally if they met standards for speed and reliability. CPUC staff engaged in extensive public outreach—including webinars, office hours, guides, and FAQs—to help applicants understand requirements. The final proposal incorporates input from these activities along with careful application reviews.
The next step involves submitting the proposal for NTIA review. NTIA may approve it or request revisions before giving final approval. Once authorized, California can begin awarding grants and starting construction on broadband projects statewide.
Further information about CPUC’s efforts can be found at www.cpuc.ca.gov.
