Reducing Barriers for Broadband on Federal Lands Act of 2023
Impact
The bill specifically exempts broadband projects from major federal actions as defined by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and from the requirements of the National Historic Preservation Act. This exemption is significant because it allows broadband projects to bypass the extensive review processes typically required for federal actions, which proponents argue will expedite installation times and reduce costs for broadband providers. However, the bill raises concerns among environmentalists and historical preservation advocates who fear that these exemptions could lead to negative impacts on natural resources and historical sites that might otherwise receive protection.
Summary
House Bill 3297, known as the Reducing Barriers for Broadband on Federal Lands Act of 2023, seeks to streamline the process for broadband projects installed on federal lands by exempting them from certain environmental and historical preservation reviews. This legislation is aimed at facilitating faster deployment of broadband infrastructure in response to the growing demand for high-quality communication services. By simplifying the approval process, the bill intends to encourage broadband providers to expand their services to underserved areas, thereby enhancing connectivity.
Contention
Critics of HB 3297 argue that while expanding access to broadband is important, it should not come at the expense of environmental and historical protections. They assert that the elimination of these reviews could result in harm to sensitive ecosystems and culturally significant sites. Proponents of the bill counter that the urgency of improving broadband access, particularly in rural and disadvantaged communities, justifies these exemptions and that the benefits of increased connectivity outweigh potential risks. The debate surrounding the bill highlights the tension between technological advancement and environmental stewardship.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.
Establishes office in EDA to assist in provision and expansion of broadband Internet service in State to address inequities in accessing broadband service.