S. 866: Accelerating Broadband Permits Act

This bill, known as the Accelerating Broadband Permits Act, aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the federal process for permitting communications use applications, particularly those related to broadband infrastructure. Here are the main components of the bill:

Improving Processing Times

The bill requires executive agencies to implement measures to better meet the current statutory deadline for processing communications applications, which is set at 270 days. Key provisions include:

• Data Controls: Agencies must develop systems to ensure their data on processing times is accurate and complete.
• Delay Factors: Agencies need to analyze the reasons for any delays in processing these applications and take necessary actions to address them. Additionally, they must report their findings annually to specified Senate and House committees.
• At-Risk Applications: A mechanism must be established to alert agency staff to applications that are at risk of not meeting the deadline.

Broadband Project Cost Thresholds

The bill amends the existing regulations governing broadband projects by adjusting the minimum project cost threshold. Specifically, it addresses projects that:

• Are subject to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
• Involve the construction of broadband infrastructure.
• Require a total investment of over $5,000,000.

This change is intended to clarify which broadband projects will be subject to specific federal review processes based on their cost and environmental impact.

Overall Goals

Ultimately, the goal of the Accelerating Broadband Permits Act is to facilitate faster approval of applications necessary for developing and expanding broadband infrastructure, thereby addressing the growing demand for reliable internet access across the United States.

Relevant Companies

• TWC (Charter Communications Inc.): As a major broadband provider, changes that speed up permitting processes could enable faster deployment of their services.
• CMCSA (Comcast Corporation): Another key broadband provider that could benefit from quicker approvals for broadband expansion efforts.
• VZ (Verizon Communications Inc.): As a telecommunications company, Verizon could be impacted by expedited procedures for deploying broadband technology.