FCC Takes Steps To Promote Wireless Broadband Deployment

The Federal Communications Commission opened a proceeding to identify and address unnecessary regulatory barriers to wireless infrastructure deployment. The Commission’s goal is to promote the rapid deployment of advanced wireless broadband service to all Americans. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) begins an examination of how state and local processes affect the speed and cost of infrastructure deployment, and asks for comment on improving state and local infrastructure reviews, such as zoning requests.

Among other things, the NPRM seeks comment on whether siting applications that are not acted on by state or local governments within a reasonable period of time should be “deemed granted” by Commission rules. The NPRM also examines FCC rules and procedures for complying with the National Historic Preservation Act and National Environmental Policy Act. The Commission seeks input on the costs and benefits inherent in the historic preservation and environmental review processes as currently structured and asks what changes could be made to minimize costs and delays.