H.R.339 - Broadband Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 339, the Broadband Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act, aims to streamline the process for modifying existing wireless and telecommunications facilities. It amends the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 to expedite state and local government consideration of modification requests. The bill sets timeframes for approval, addresses incomplete applications, and limits required documentation.
Expected Effects
The bill is likely to accelerate the deployment of 5G and other advanced telecommunications technologies by reducing regulatory hurdles. This could lead to improved broadband access and network resiliency. It could also reduce the control of local governments over infrastructure modifications.
Potential Benefits
- Faster deployment of broadband infrastructure.
- Increased investment in telecommunications.
- Improved network resiliency through backup power and hardening.
- Reduced regulatory burdens for telecommunications companies.
- Potential for enhanced public safety communication capabilities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced local control over infrastructure development.
- Potential for aesthetic concerns due to infrastructure modifications.
- Possible circumvention of local zoning regulations.
- Risk of inadequate environmental review.
- Potential for increased noise or visual pollution in some areas.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is primarily based on the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including telecommunications. The bill seeks to facilitate the deployment of broadband, which is considered essential for modern commerce. There is a potential tension with the Tenth Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, as the bill limits state and local regulatory authority over telecommunications infrastructure.
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).