Federal Communications Commission	FCC 25-66


STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER ANNA M. GOMEZ

Re: 	Build America: Eliminating Barriers to Wireline Deployments, WC Docket No. 25-253, Notice of 
Inquiry (Sept. 30, 2025).

I agree with the Chairman and others who want the FCC to be doing everything it can to accelerate broadband buildouts, especially of wireline infrastructure that can deliver reliable, high-capacity connections necessary to meet this country’s stated goal of winning the AI race. 
While I welcome public input on how we can spur further investment, we must remember that our primary responsibility is ensuring these networks serve the public. That means adopting policies that encourage deployment, while also holding providers accountable for delivering affordable, reliable, and resilient service to all communities—rural, urban, and Tribal alike.
But we also must recognize the challenges people are facing right now. The lapse of the Affordable Connectivity Program has already created real uncertainty for millions of families who now face higher bills or the risk of losing service altogether. And in recent months, unnecessary political, ideological, and technical hurdles have slowed the BEAD program, leaving too many communities waiting. 
That uncertainty is forcing businesses in many states to rethink investments. This Administration should stop treating BEAD as a moving target and let states be the best stewards of their communities’ needs.
Looking ahead, I also want to caution against getting sidetracked by attempts to fulfill a failed congressional effort and second-guess states that are placing guardrails on AI. States can be important test labs for what may or may not work with emerging technologies like this one. Not to mention, our authority in this area is dubious at best, particularly after recent court decisions limiting our authority. We will be better served by focusing on the areas where we stand on firm legal ground.
So, I welcome this effort, and I look forward to working together to get it right.














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