Congressman Nick Langworthy Introduces Bill to Cut Red Tape on Broadband Permitting Process

Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) introduced the Wireless Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act, which would codify a Trump-era 2020 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule as part of broader efforts to streamline the broadband permitting process.

 The legislation would make it easier and faster for wireless service providers to improve their existing communications towers and equipment. By streamlining the approval process to enhance network reliability, this bill would support the expansion of wireless services, including 5G, across the United States.  

Specifically, the Wireless Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act would require state and local governments to approve applications for these modifications and improvements to existing networks within sixty days, ensuring that necessary upgrades can proceed without unnecessary delays - to the benefit of both service providers and consumers. 

 “There are still large swaths of areas across Western New York and the Southern Tier that don’t have stable cell service. If we are going to invite economic investment to the region, our people desperately need broadband. It is crucial that we cut red tape so these areas can get the service they need,” said Congressman Langworthy in a statement on Wednesday. “Once these companies can expand faster, consumers will be able to get better, more reliable cell service. It is my hope that this bill will be supported in a bipartisan matter as it moves through the legislative process.”