Why It Matters
New Jersey stands to receive approximately $264 million in federal funding to expand high-speed internet access, but none of that money has reached state projects despite the program’s creation nearly five years ago. The delay affects communities where roughly one in four households lack internet service, limiting access to remote work, education, and essential services.
What Happened
Congress established the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program in 2021, allocating $42.45 billion nationwide to expand high-speed internet coverage. The Commerce Department under the Trump administration placed the program under review in March and required states to resubmit proposals in June. The first connections under the program occurred this month in Nebraska and Louisiana. New Jersey received federal approval for about $62 million in December, covering 11,479 locations, but no connections have been made as of late May.
By the Numbers
New Jersey ranks first nationally for broadband coverage, speed, and accessibility according to 2025 industry data. However, 9% of white households lack computer and internet access, compared to 14% of Black households and 13% of Latino households. In Newark, Camden, and Trenton, approximately 25% of households have no internet service. The state’s total allocation from the program is $264 million.
Zoom Out
The slow rollout has drawn criticism from both parties in Congress. Members from rural states have expressed concern that the administration may not distribute funds as the law requires. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told lawmakers in April that the department is working to close coverage gaps. The program received unanimous support from New Jersey’s congressional delegation when lawmakers created it.
What’s Next
New Jersey has identified 19 counties for potential broadband expansion, including Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren. The state has selected providers and identified communities for deployment once federal funding arrives. The timeline for releasing approved funds remains unclear.