The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has authorized the submission of California’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Final Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). This move could secure up to $1.86 billion in federal funding aimed at expanding high-speed internet access across California.
The BEAD Final Proposal details how the state intends to use these funds to bring reliable internet service to areas that currently lack adequate access. Targeted locations include rural communities, Tribal lands, and low-income neighborhoods. If approved by NTIA, the funding will support a variety of broadband projects intended to close gaps in service.
“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.”
The proposal builds on an earlier plan already approved by federal authorities. It includes a list of preliminary broadband projects recommended for funding throughout the state, updated coverage data based on public input, and outlines a mix of technologies—such as fiber, cable, fixed wireless, and satellite—to address different terrains and community needs. The plan emphasizes cost control measures through competitive bidding processes.
According to CPUC estimates, these initiatives aim to reach every eligible BEAD location statewide and expand internet access for hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses.
“The BEAD Final Proposal we are submitting to the federal government will meaningfully close the digital divide,” said Commissioner Darcie L. Houck. “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.”
In compliance with updated federal requirements promoting competition and technology neutrality, CPUC redesigned its project selection process so all qualified providers could compete equally if they met performance standards for speed and reliability. To facilitate participation from potential applicants, CPUC staff organized public webinars, office hours sessions, published guides, and FAQs during months of outreach efforts.
Next steps involve submitting the proposal for NTIA review. The agency may approve it or request changes before final approval is granted. Once finalized by NTIA, California can begin awarding grants and launching construction projects statewide.
For more information about this initiative or other CPUC programs regulating utilities in California visit www.cpuc.ca.gov.
