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Accelerating Rural Broadband Deployment Act
12/30/2022, 5:47 PM
Summary of Bill HR 3970
The key provisions of the bill include:
1. Streamlining the permitting process for broadband infrastructure deployment in rural areas to expedite the expansion of broadband networks. 2. Providing financial incentives and grants to internet service providers to encourage them to invest in rural broadband infrastructure. 3. Establishing a task force to identify and address barriers to rural broadband deployment and develop strategies to increase access to high-speed internet in underserved areas. 4. Promoting public-private partnerships to leverage resources and expertise in expanding broadband access in rural communities. The bill has received bipartisan support in Congress, with lawmakers recognizing the importance of closing the digital divide and ensuring that all Americans have access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet. If passed, the Accelerating Rural Broadband Deployment Act has the potential to significantly improve connectivity in rural areas and enhance economic opportunities for residents in these communities.
Congressional Summary of HR 3970
Accelerating Rural Broadband Deployment Act
This bill authorizes the granting of an occupancy license to any person who requests access to a right-of-way that is owned by the federal government in order to place, construct, modify, or operate facilities for the provision of broadband service.
Specifically, an executive agency with control over such a right-of-way may grant an occupancy license for the expansion of broadband service. An occupancy license may not have a duration of more than 30 years and may be automatically renewed. The granting agency must establish an annual license fee and make a decision regarding the issuance of the occupancy license within 60 days of receiving an application for a license. If the agency does not act on a request within 60 days, the application shall be considered granted.
