Summary
Makes it faster and easier for companies to get permission to build and update internet, cable, and wireless networks by setting deadlines for government review.
What problem does this solve?
Getting government permission to build new internet and cell phone infrastructure can be a very slow process, delaying access to better service. This bill creates strict deadlines for federal, state, and local governments to approve or deny these projects, making the process much faster.
Who does this affect?
- Telecommunications and cable companies
- State and local governments
- Community residents and property owners
What does this bill do?
Sets strict deadlines for permit approvals
Requires state and local governments to approve or deny requests to build or modify wireless and wireline facilities within a set timeframe, typically between 60 and 150 days.
Automatically approves projects if deadlines are missed
Establishes a "deemed granted" rule, where a company's application is automatically approved if a government agency fails to make a decision within the required timeframe.
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 301
Header:
Application of NEPA and NHPA to certain communications projects
Exempts projects from environmental and historical review
Stops many communications projects from being subject to review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
Makes cable franchises indefinite
Removes the need for cable companies to renew their local franchise agreements. Franchises will now continue forever unless they are revoked for a specific cause.
Limits fees charged by local governments
Restricts the fees that state and local governments can charge for permits. Fees must be based only on the direct and reasonable costs of reviewing the application and managing the public right-of-way.
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 401
Header:
Timely consideration of applications for Federal easements, rights-of-way, and leases
Speeds up approvals on federal land
Sets deadlines for federal agencies to approve or deny applications for building communications infrastructure on federal property. If an agency misses the deadline, the application is automatically approved.
Creates deadlines for new cable franchises
Requires local authorities to approve or deny a request for a new cable franchise within 120 days. If they fail to act, the franchise is automatically granted.
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 302
Header:
Presumption with respect to certain complete FCC forms
Changes rules for consulting with Indian Tribes
Creates a rule that if an Indian Tribe does not respond to a request about a project's impact on cultural sites within 45 days, it is assumed they have no interest in the project.
What is the real world impact?
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Expands high-speed internet access
Aims to speed up the construction of broadband, 5G, and cable networks across the country. This helps get faster internet to more people, especially in areas that are currently underserved.
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Reduces regulatory burdens for companies
Helps telecommunications and cable companies save time and money by creating a more predictable and faster approval process. This encourages more investment in building and upgrading network infrastructure.
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Bypasses environmental and historical reviews
Exempts many communications projects from major federal environmental and historical preservation reviews. This could allow construction to proceed without fully considering the impact on the environment, wildlife, or sites of historical and cultural importance.
When does this start?
Different parts of this bill would take effect at different times if it becomes law.
Cable franchise and sales rules
The changes to cable franchise terms and sales rules take effect 6 months after the bill is enacted.
FCC implementation rules
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is required to create new rules to implement parts of this act within 180 days of its enactment.
Report on broadband grant fees
A report on fees charged by entities that receive federal broadband grants must be submitted to Congress within 180 days of enactment.