Policy
BEAD
Next-generation FWA technology creator Tarana says Starlink has pulled the rug out from under the NTIA and state broadband offices.
By Brad Randall, Broadband Communities
Starlink’s push for state broadband offices to accept their riders earlier this year did more than undermine confidence in the federal government’s massive broadband spend, it also jeopardized the digital future for hundreds of thousands of families, according to Tarana.
The company, known also as Tarana Wireless, and as an architect of next-generation fixed wireless access (FWA) technology, made the comments in a recently released statement, posted to Tarana’s website.
“Recently, Starlink pushed for an amendment to its BEAD awards, asking for upfront payment, proposing fees if families need help with installations, and requesting relief against their commitment to provide the minimum of 100 / 20 Mbps service to the hundreds of thousands of unserved homes they were awarded,” Tarana’s statement said. “In doing this, Starlink has pulled the rug out from under the NTIA and the state broadband offices that worked so tirelessly to solve the digital divide for their residents.”
As was previously reported, state broadband offices were urged not to sign the waiver.
“Even worse, Starlink is jeopardizing the digital future of hundreds of thousands of families,” Tarana’s March 31 statement goes on to say.
The company has also highlighted recent reporting from Politico, which reported on fears being vocalized in Congress about Starlink’s ability to follow through on their commitments under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
“It’s a commitment we all take seriously”
Meanwhile, Tarana says they’re dedicated to delivering on commitments they’ve made to connect 385,000 homes that are currently unserved.
“Undoubtedly, there is hard work ahead – there always is when historic change hangs in the balance,” Tarana’s statement said. “But at the end of the day, our ISP partners using Tarana ngFWA technology will ensure our BEAD residents will get reliable connectivity, super-fast speeds exceeding 100 / 20 Mbps, and a great in-home experience.”
“We owe them that,” their statement continued. “It’s a commitment we all take seriously – no ‘riders’ or ‘do-overs’ needed.”
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