C&T Hearing: Oversight of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce held an oversight hearing on July 1, 2026, focusing on the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and its management of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The hearing addressed NTIA's reforms to the BEAD program, which have reportedly saved over $20 billion and accelerated broadband deployment, with 54 states and territories having approved final proposals. However, members expressed concerns about delays in approving plans for states like California and Illinois, the withholding of non-deployment funds, and the inclusion of low Earth orbit satellite technology in the program. Discussions also covered NTIA's role in spectrum allocation, public safety communications including Next Generation 911 and FirstNet, and challenges related to permitting and supply chain issues for fiber optic equipment. NTIA Administrator Roth committed to providing timely guidance on non-deployment funds, ensuring transparency in reporting, and working with Congress to strengthen tribal broadband access and public safety communications. The hearing included debates over regulatory authority, consumer protections, and the balance between technology neutrality and performance standards in broadband deployment.