Broadband Buildout Accountability Act

# Broadband Buildout Accountability Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)—the federal agency managing broadband expansion grants—to comply with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This means the public, journalists, and researchers could request and access documents related to how the NTIA makes decisions about distributing broadband funding to states and communities. **Who It Affects:** The bill affects the NTIA and the states/communities receiving broadband grants under the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. It also affects the general public by potentially increasing transparency about how billions in federal broadband funds are allocated.

The bill's sponsor, Senator Rick Scott (R-FL), frames it as an accountability measure. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It has not passed into law.