NTIA Announces Approval of Texas’ BEAD Final Proposal
Thanks to Benefit of the Bargain Reforms, Texas Saves $2 Billion while Achieving Universal Connectivity
WASHINGTON—Today, the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced the approval of Texas’ Final Proposal to deliver universal broadband access throughout the state through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.
Today’s announcement makes Texas the 19th Final Proposal approved to date—a success story that demonstrates the Trump Administration's Benefit of the Bargain reforms at work. Under the prior Administration’s rules, Texas was the last state to submit its Initial Proposal to NTIA, and the Texas Final Proposal would not have been due until November 21, 2025. Thanks to NTIA’s efforts to accelerate BEAD and eliminate unnecessary burdens, and the state’s diligent work to deliver a compliant, high-quality application, Texas beat this deadline by nearly a month. NTIA was then able to grant expeditious approval, shaving months off Texans’ wait time for broadband access.
"We are thrilled to announce that Texas’ Final BEAD Proposal has been approved by NTIA," said Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth. "They say everything is bigger in Texas, and we certainly saw that with the effort put forth in their BEAD Final Proposal. Texas worked incredibly hard to deliver the Benefit of the Bargain—ensuring a fair evaluation of diverse technologies while securing over $2 billion dollars in savings. The fact that we were able to approve the plan 22 days after submission speaks volumes about the strength and thoughtfulness of Texas’ proposal—and NTIA’s ability to get things done quickly. We look forward to seeing Texans benefit from universal connectivity."
“Broadband infrastructure is essential to ensure all Texans – urban and rural – have access to fast, reliable internet,” said Texas Governor Greg Abbott. “I thank the Trump Administration and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration for their support of Texas' efforts to expand broadband access throughout our state. Texas’ BEAD approval will enhance the lives of Texans in every corner of the state through faster communication, access to information, and telehealth opportunities. Through affordable and reliable access to high-speed internet, Texas will help students learn, businesses grow, and communities thrive.”
"Expanding reliable broadband is ultimately about strengthening our communities and supporting the hardworking Texans who keep our economy moving in each of the 254 counties across the state," said Texas Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock. "With this approval, we will ensure federal funds are used carefully and transparently, with a focus on innovative technologies and real accountability. The Texas broadband plan reflects our state’s commitment to responsible stewardship and to creating an environment where families, students, and businesses can continue to thrive for generations to come."
Visit our website for more information on Texas' Final Proposal.
As of today, 19 states and territories have been approved by NTIA, generating savings of $8 billion. In total, 53 of the 56 states and territories have submitted Final Proposals. Total savings for American taxpayers are now estimated to be at least $21 billion, with that number expected to increase with the submission of the remaining Final Proposals.
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About the National Telecommunications and Information Administration
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is the Executive Branch agency that advises the President on telecommunications and information policy issues. NTIA’s programs and policymaking focus on expanding broadband internet access in America, maximizing the use of spectrum by all users, advancing public safety communications, and ensuring that the internet remains an engine for innovation and economic growth.