Supporting U.S. Critical Connectivity and Economic Strategy and Security for BEAD Act; SUCCESS for BEAD Act
Summary
H.R. 6920, the SUCCESS for BEAD Act, amends the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to authorize the use of remaining funds under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program for competitive subgrants. These subgrants would support broadband deployment projects, focusing on public safety, national security, workforce development, and AI-supportive telecommunications infrastructure. The bill prioritizes projects in unserved or underserved regions, including Tribal lands, and those strategically critical for national interests.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to enhance the impact of the BEAD program by directing remaining funds towards projects that improve connectivity and support emerging technologies. It also seeks to modernize and harden critical networks, including 9-1-1 systems, and address workforce shortages in key sectors. The Act also prevents the revision or rescission of the 'Build America, Buy America' waiver.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced broadband access, particularly in underserved areas and Tribal lands.
- Improved public safety through Next Generation 9-1-1 implementation.
- Workforce development in telecommunications, cybersecurity, and AI sectors.
- Strengthened national security through hardened networks and support for federal facilities.
- Promotion of innovation in AI-supportive telecommunications infrastructure.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient allocation of remaining funds if subgrants are not effectively managed.
- Risk of overbuilding if challenge processes for fiber infrastructure are not rigorous.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to new requirements and coordination efforts.
- Limited impact on areas already well-served by existing broadband infrastructure.
- The matching requirement may be a barrier for some potential subgrantees.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by promoting interstate commerce through enhanced broadband infrastructure. It also supports the General Welfare Clause (Preamble) by improving public safety and national security. The emphasis on workforce development can be seen as promoting the general welfare as well.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).