Streamlining Broadband Deployment: Faster Internet Access for Citizens.
This new law aims to accelerate the construction and modernization of telecommunications infrastructure, potentially leading to faster and more accessible internet for citizens. It establishes clear rules for local governments regarding permit issuance to prevent delays and unjustified fees, which should result in better service quality and increased market competition.
Key points
Faster Permits: Local governments will have a set timeframe (90 or 150 days) to decide on telecommunications infrastructure construction or modification. Failure to decide within this period means automatic approval.
Standardized Fees: Fees charged by local governments for application review or use of public rights-of-way must be transparent, non-discriminatory, and based on actual costs.
Protection Against Blockades: The act prohibits local governments from imposing bans or moratoriums on submitting applications for network construction, preventing artificial delays.
Equal Treatment: Local governments cannot discriminate against different technologies (e.g., fiber optics, 5G) or service providers when issuing permits, fostering competition and innovation.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_3295
Sponsor: Rep. Griffith, H. Morgan [R-VA-9]
Process start date: 2023-05-15