Pfluger Introduces Bill to Expand Broadband Access

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday, Congressmen August Pfluger and Darren Soto reintroduced bipartisan legislation to improve transparency and efficiency in the broadband deployment process, which will help close the digital divide for rural Americans. 

The Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to submit a comprehensive plan to Congress within 180 days detailing how the agency will track the acceptance, processing, and disposal of broadband permitting applications on federal lands. 

These applications are essential for accessing easements and rights-of-way to build or maintain telecommunications infrastructure. Through this legislation, the NTIA will also be responsible for detailing how they will quickly implement their plan and any potential barriers they could face.

“It is time to close the digital divide and create a more connected future for all Americans, and my legislation is a critical step to accomplishing this goal,” said Rep. Pfluger. “By enhancing government accountability and accelerating broadband deployment, we're not just improving a process – we're investing in the future of our nation. The Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act will help ensure that investments in broadband expansion reach Americans more quickly and effectively.”

“I’m proud to co-introduce the Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act alongside Rep. Pfluger to make broadband more accessible for all Americans, especially in rural communities. In Central Florida, we’ve seen areas from Kenansville to Deer Park, Bull Creek, and Yeehaw Junction transform thanks to federal funding focused on areas that were previously left behind. Our bill will expedite considering broadband permits on federal lands, helping deploy broadband faster,” said Rep. Soto.