H.R.278 - Barriers and Regulatory Obstacles Avoids Deployment of Broadband Access and Needs Deregulatory Leadership Act; BROADBAND Leadership Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.278, the BROADBAND Leadership Act, aims to accelerate broadband deployment by streamlining the siting processes for telecommunications service facilities. It amends the Communications Act of 1934 to remove barriers to entry for telecommunications service providers at the state and local levels. The bill sets timeframes for state and local governments to approve or deny requests for facility placement, construction, or modification, and it establishes conditions for fees and judicial review.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is faster broadband deployment due to reduced regulatory hurdles and quicker approval processes. This could lead to increased competition among telecommunications providers. Ultimately, this could result in expanded broadband access for consumers and businesses, particularly in underserved areas.
Potential Benefits
- Faster broadband deployment leading to increased access for consumers and businesses.
- Reduced regulatory burdens for telecommunications companies, potentially fostering innovation and investment.
- Increased competition among providers, potentially leading to lower prices and better service.
- Clearer and more predictable approval processes for infrastructure projects.
- Potential for economic growth in areas with improved broadband access.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of local control over telecommunications infrastructure siting.
- Possible negative impacts on local aesthetics and environmental concerns due to expedited construction.
- Risk of insufficient consideration of community needs and concerns in the siting process.
- Potential for increased strain on local government resources due to mandated timeframes.
- Possible preemption of state and local laws, potentially undermining local authority.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's attempt to regulate state and local authority over telecommunications infrastructure raises questions related to federalism and the Tenth Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states. However, the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, which could be used to justify federal intervention in broadband deployment. The bill also includes provisions to preserve state regulatory authority in certain areas, such as universal service and public safety, which attempts to balance federal and state interests.
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).