Broadband typically falls into the category of public utility and these projects have usually required long lead times and specialized contractors who schedule out years in advance. Congress is reviewing plans to provide greater flexibility with the funding.
The CARES Act
The goal of the $2.2 trillion CARES Act was to help states deal with the coronavirus pandemic as quickly as possible. The money can be used for outbreak-related expenses but cannot go to replace the evaporating tax revenue that is shrinking as a result of the economic shutdowns.
Some states have shared portions of the money with local governments that can’t apply on their own. They’re also launching grants, loans, and special programs for utility, housing, and other assistance required by hard-hit small businesses and individuals.
The goal of these broadband projects is to expand service so it will be available for those who are working and studying from home, but also for people who need to use broadband for telehealth reasons.
States hard-pressed to meet end-of-year deadline
An AP report described what’s happening in the state of Vermont. The Legislature was forced to cut back from $100 which they would have like to allocate to less than $20 million, which they believed they could spend use by the deadline.
