FCC Boosts Wireless Broadband by Easing Infrastructure Burdens

The Federal Communications Commission adopted a Report and Order that takes critical steps to promote deployment of the wireless infrastructure necessary to provide the public with ubiquitous, advanced wireless broadband services.

The Report and Order updates and tailors the manner in which the FCC evaluates the impact of proposed deployments on the environment and historic properties. It also adopts rules to clarify and implement statutory limitations on State and local government authority to review infrastructure siting applications -- including a “deemed granted” remedy if a State or local government fails to act on an eligible facilities modification request under Section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act. Finally, it adopts an exemption from the environmental public notification process for “temporary towers” that are in place only for short periods of time. Taken together, these steps lay the groundwork necessary for delivering more wireless capacity in more locations to consumers throughout the United States. At the same time, it adheres to statutory obligations to protect the environment and historic properties, and it safeguards Tribal, State, and local land-use priorities as well as safety and aesthetic interests.


FCC Boosts Wireless Broadband by Easing Infrastructure Burdens