H.R.1617 - Wireless Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1617, the "Wireless Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act of 2025," aims to streamline the process for modifying existing wireless facilities. It amends the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 to expedite state and local government consideration of requests for wireless infrastructure upgrades. The bill sets a 60-day timeframe for approval or denial of eligible facilities requests, with provisions for tolling due to incompleteness or mutual agreement.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to accelerate the deployment of new wireless technologies and improve the resiliency of existing infrastructure. This could lead to better connectivity and public safety outcomes. It also limits the ability of local governments to delay or deny modifications to existing wireless facilities, potentially impacting local control over infrastructure development.
Potential Benefits
- Faster Deployment of Wireless Technology: Streamlined approval processes will lead to quicker upgrades and expansion of wireless networks.
- Improved Public Safety: Encourages modifications that enhance resiliency and provide backup power for wireless infrastructure.
- Reduced Bureaucracy: Limits the ability of state and local governments to impose excessive documentation requirements.
- Increased Investment: Creates a more predictable regulatory environment, encouraging investment in wireless infrastructure.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Better wireless infrastructure can improve connectivity for individuals and businesses.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Local Control: Limits the authority of state and local governments over wireless infrastructure development.
- Potential for Aesthetic Concerns: Expedited approvals may lead to modifications that are not in line with local aesthetic preferences.
- Limited Public Input: Streamlined processes may reduce opportunities for public input and community engagement.
- Risk of Inadequate Review: The 60-day timeframe may not be sufficient for thorough review of complex modification requests.
- Possible Overreach: The definition of 'eligible facilities request' could be interpreted broadly, leading to unintended consequences.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily related to the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including communications infrastructure. The bill aims to facilitate the deployment of wireless technology, which is a key component of interstate commerce. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and this bill arguably limits state and local control over infrastructure. However, the federal government has historically asserted authority over communications infrastructure due to its interstate nature.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).