Trump Administration Rescinds Nevada’s High-Speed Internet Funds, New Criteria Implemented
In a controversial move, the Trump administration has rescinded funds previously allocated to Nevada for high-speed internet projects, forcing the state to reapply for grants under newly established criteria. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced the reforms Friday affecting the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, initially launched under the Biden administration’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Originally, BEAD provided $42.45 billion through state grants, with Nevada set to receive $416 million starting January 2025, as confirmed by Senator Jacky Rosen’s office. However, the new guidelines mandate states to reapply without guaranteed funding.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that the revised BEAD program aims to deliver cost-efficient, technology-neutral high-speed internet access. “President Trump promised to end wasteful spending, ensuring better connectivity at lower costs,” he claimed.
The updated policy focuses on reducing costs, expediting implementation, and fostering competition by eliminating tech preferences. States have 90 days to comply. The NTIA retains the authority to reject projects deemed excessively costly.
Rosen expressed her outrage, claiming the Trump administration’s decision jeopardizes Nevada’s funding and negatively impacts rural communities needing internet access. She vowed to block the confirmation of Commerce Department nominees overseeing broadband initiatives until Nevada receives its funds.
While the NTIA acknowledged the significant investments made by stakeholders in the BEAD program, it emphasized that the reforms aim to enhance efficiency and competition without requiring states to revisit earlier program stages.
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