In our Feb. 2 and Feb. 17 e-lerts, JSI informed clients about potential opportunities to obtain funds for broadband deployment in legislation that has since been enacted by Congress and signed by the president.  The broadband provisions are part of the economic stimulus package known as the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and include approximately $7 billion, to be administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the Rural Utilities Services (RUS), both of which must still determine the details surrounding these opportunities.

In the coming weeks, JSI will conduct ex parte meetings with both government agencies, as well as initiate other advocacy efforts to urge them to draft rules favorable to JSI clients and other community based providers.  As rule development proceeds, JSI will continue to interact with agency staff regarding the most advantageous ways for companies to apply for the grants.  This information will be especially valuable to companies given the highly competitive nature of the grant application process.

JSI has scheduled a conference call on Tuesday, March 3, at 11:00 a.m. (EST) to review how clients can participate in this effort, as well how they will be able to get updates about the insights that JSI gains as the rules are developed.  If you are interested in participating on the call, please contact Kim Waldvogel in our Maryland office, at 301-459-7590.  If you are not able to participate on this scheduled call but would like to know more about how to take advantage of JSI's assistance, please let Kim know, so JSI can follow up with you after Tuesday's call.