Part of AFL’s executive leadership team met with White House officials to discuss the Biden-Harris Administration’s Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) policies and funding. Specifically, with how they relate to the expansion of broadband access and updating the power grid around the U.S.
AFL’s President and CEO supports the infrastructure initiatives and stated, “We believe that we are well positioned to make significant contributions to these initiatives and are prepared to make the necessary investments.”
Per the White House, the requirements of BABA are integral to maximizing the economic possibilities of the Internet for All initiative. Through the manufacturing of construction materials domestically, not only are manufacturers able to create jobs, but they can also deliver cost-efficient, reliable high-speed internet service to millions of Americans. The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program will utilize funds to purchase items made in America to encourage the deployment of the broadband infrastructure needed for universal coverage.
AFL offers fiber optic cable and components that meet BABA requirements. For products that are currently not fully compliant with national preference regulations, AFL is taking steps to gain domestic sources and manufacture its products in America.
It is important to note that to ensure BABA requirements are met and maintained throughout the manufacturing process, BABA (along with other regulatory requirements) must be mentioned while getting a quote and during the ordering process with AFL.