Broadband Buildout Accountability Act

It would insert a direct reference to FOIA Section 552 into the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act language that governs the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program.

• Communities and watchdogs: Would let journalists, researchers, and residents request NTIA records about where and how BEAD funds are awarded and spent.
• State and local grantees and vendors: Would make applications, contracts, and communications more likely to be disclosed, which could expose proprietary or sensitive details.
• NTIA program staff: Would need to handle FOIA requests for BEAD materials, adding administrative duties to manage disclosures and withholdings.