H.R. 2975: Broadband Incentives for Communities Act

This bill, known as the Broadband Incentives for Communities Act, aims to facilitate the deployment of broadband infrastructure across local communities by providing competitive grants to local governments. Here’s a summary of what the bill proposes:

Establishment of Grant Program

The bill directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to create a competitive grant program. This program will grant funds to local governments (referred to as "covered entities") to help them efficiently review and approve zoning and permitting applications related to the deployment of broadband infrastructure.

Goals of the Program

• Efficiency in Review Processes: Local governments are expected to streamline their zoning and permitting processes to encourage faster deployment of broadband services.
• Support for Local Governments: Given the anticipated increase in applications for broadband infrastructure, local governments will need assistance in managing this workload.

Eligibility for Grants

To qualify for the grant, a covered entity must:

• Submit an application with required information and assurances as mandated by the Assistant Secretary.
• Demonstrate readiness for broadband deployment, including:
• Efficient review processes that comply with federal standards.
• Written policies that allow for expedited processes such as micro-trenching, which is a method for installing fiber optic cables.
• Implement uniform and reasonable fees for processing applications.

Usage of Grant Funds

Funds received from the grants can be utilized for:

• Building the capacity of the local government to process applications (e.g., employee training and hiring).
• Purchasing technology or equipment needed to facilitate the application processes.

Local Broadband Advisory Council

The bill requires the establishment of a Local Broadband Advisory Council within 90 days of enactment. This council will include members representing local governments, the broadband industry, and other stakeholders. Its role will be to address challenges related to broadband deployment in communities, particularly in underserved areas. A report on their findings will be submitted within one year of the council's formation.

Authorization of Funds

Funding for the program will be authorized, allowing the Assistant Secretary to appropriate necessary funds to carry out the provisions of this Act.

Definitions

This section clarifies key terms used in the bill:

• Assistant Secretary: Refers to the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information.
• Broadband Infrastructure: Facilities or equipment used to provide broadband internet access.
• Covered Application: A zoning or permitting application aimed at deploying broadband infrastructure.
• Covered Entity: Refers to local government bodies, including political subdivisions and Indian tribes.

Relevant Companies

• AMZN (Amazon): As a key player in the digital and cloud services, Amazon may benefit from enhanced broadband infrastructure that supports its services across underserved areas.
• T (AT&T): This telecommunications company could see a direct impact on its operations and service delivery, especially in rural and underserved regions where broadband deployment is enhanced.
• VZ (Verizon): Verizon, as a major telecommunications provider, would be significantly affected by improvements in local permitting processes, allowing faster broadband infrastructure expansion.