Infrastructure is front and center in Washington right now. Policymakers across the federal government are looking for ways to modernize outdated rules, accelerate economic growth, and strengthen America’s competitive edge. Wireless infrastructure is getting a lot of attention – and rightfully so.
Wireless infrastructure keeps us connected. When you stream a video, send a text, or use GPS to get home, you’re relying on a vast network of towers, small cells, and spectrum working behind the scenes. That infrastructure is the backbone of 5G and the foundation for next-generation wireless innovation. It’s what makes service more affordable, more reliable, and faster than ever before.
While technology has advanced rapidly, permitting requirements have not kept pace, hindering many communities from reaching their connectivity potential. Outdated requirements, unreasonable government fees, and unnecessary delays can slow deployment and increase costs, especially in rural and underserved communities that need connectivity the most. It is hurting the underserved and unserved, while also impacting our wireless potential.
The good news is that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed modernizing permitting processes. These reforms would put common sense guardrails on state and local level reviews of tower and other wireless infrastructure deployments. Additionally, a recent report from NERA found that streamlining permitting requirements put in place decades ago by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and National Historical Preservation Act (NHPA) can have profound positive benefits for consumers and the broader economy.
Reforms Can Reduce Costs
First, regulatory red tape increases costs for wireless carriers. These inefficiencies make building networks more expensive, impeding wireless providers’ efforts to bring new, better, and more affordable service to more Americans.
Expanded Access for Underserved and Rural Areas
Second, these requirements discourage investment. When regulatory burdens make projects uneconomical, our communities risk falling behind. Slower investment means fewer upgrades, fewer jobs, and fewer opportunities for Americans to fully participate in today’s digital economy.
Enhanced Competition and Innovation
Finally, burdensome permitting requirements harm American competitiveness in 5G and next-gen technologies. For example, China is estimated to build traditional cell towers 18 times faster than the United States, in part due to the stark differences in permitting requirements.
Permitting Reform Isn’t Just Bureaucratic – It’s About All of Us
Permitting reform may sound procedural, but for anyone who uses a cellphone, it’s deeply personal. It affects our access to expanded coverage and faster speeds. Reforming outdated permitting rules also means more affordable service along with more choices that allow you to continue choosing what’s best for your lifestyle.
We depend on wireless to move fast, and the regulation that guides deployment should be aligned with how we use it. This is an opportunity to ensure America’s leadership in wireless, and ensure our access to the best wireless possible.
