AFL serves up self-certification for Build America, Buy America Act compliance

AFL now offers broadband customers self-certification for products compliant with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act requirements.

This certification positions AFL as a critical supplier for broadband infrastructure projects funded by the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program. According to NTIA, 55 Eligible Entities have completed 10 of 10 phases of the approval process.

Administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) within the U.S. Department of Commerce, the BEAD program funds states to expand broadband internet access, focusing on underserved and rural communities.

The BABA Act, a component of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, mandates that domestically sourced or manufactured products be used for these projects.

AFL’s compliant products have been verified to comply with the Buy America Preference requirements or, at a minimum, meet the guidance specified in the BABA Waiver for the BEAD Program.

The company said this self-certification ensures that AFL's products are eligible for use in the program, supporting the goals of improving the nation's broadband infrastructure.

“We are actively expanding our portfolio of compliant products,” said Marc Bolick, president of product solutions for AFL. “Our goal is to provide a comprehensive range of products that meets the needs of our customers’ BEAD-funded projects.”

AFL has continued to focus on supporting BABA requirements. Last October, AFL’s top leadership team met with members of the Biden-Harris Administration to discuss how they support BABA policies and funding for expanding broadband access and modernizing the power grid across America.

AFL, however, is hardly alone in its efforts. Fellow broadband players Calix, Nokia, Prysmian and STL have also developed their BABA-focused initiatives.