The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on Tuesday approved final BEAD proposals from 18 states and territories, marking the first batch of post-restructuring approvals. The batch totals about $6 billion in taxpayer savings and clears the path for states to access BEAD funding, including Louisiana’s $1.36 billion allocation.
The BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice, issued in June, called for trimming red tape and waste to maximize taxpayer value under BEAD, often described as the “Benefit of the Bargain” reforms.
Louisiana’s proposal distinguished itself on the list. The state was among the first to gain approval during the closing days of President Biden’s term, and NTIA’s award amendment now allows Louisiana to begin drawing BEAD funds. Governor Jeff Landry touted the milestone as a signal of Louisiana’s leadership in deploying digital infrastructure and creating jobs through efficient governance.
In addition to Louisiana, other final BEAD plans approved include Wyoming, Iowa, Georgia, Arkansas, Delaware, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, South Carolina, North Dakota, Hawaii, Montana, Rhode Island, and Virginia. Territories American Samoa, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands also received approvals.
NTIA officials framed the batch as proof that the Benefit of the Bargain reforms are delivering value. They noted the approvals reflect significant taxpayer savings and progress toward universal, high-speed connectivity, with only a few remaining proposals still to be submitted or approved as extensions expire.
