Broadband providers and FCC seek permitting reforms amid local government opposition

Broadband providers and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are pushing for reforms to accelerate the deployment of wired networks, while local governments are resisting federal attempts to preempt local authority.

USTelecom President and CEO Jonathan Spalter has called on Congress to include broadband infrastructure in upcoming permitting reform legislation. Spalter noted that despite providers investing $92.6 billion last year to modernize communications infrastructure, projects in rural and underserved areas face delays of months or years due to government red tape, excessive fees, and unpredictable procedures. One provider reported that permitting delays put approximately $33 million in contracted customer commitments at risk.

Simultaneously, the FCC is considering a proposal to preempt state and local permitting rules to prevent what it describes as excessive delays and exorbitant fees. This plan has met strong opposition from various municipal groups, including the United States Conference of Mayors and the National Association of Counties. These local entities argue that the proposal is illegal and would undermine essential public safety functions. They contend that local permitting is necessary to manage public rights-of-way and that the FCC should instead address how internet service providers may use permit-related tactics to thwart competition.