PASSED: Pfluger's Federal Broadband Deployment Act Passed Unanimously in the House

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman August Pfluger's (TX-11) Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act was unanimously passed through the U.S. House of Representatives, marking his 11th bill to pass the House this term and a major step forward for improving transparency and efficiency in the broadband deployment process, and helping close the digital divide for rural Americans.

In response to his legislation's passage, Congressman August Pfluger said, “It is time to close the digital divide and create a more connected future for all Americans, and the passage of my legislation today is a critical step to accomplishing this goal. 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.”

Rep. Pfluger's bipartisan Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to submit a comprehensive plan to Congress within 180 days detailing how the agency will track permit applications for deploying broadband on federal lands. This will streamline projects to expand broadband access and help close the digital divide for communities in rural America.

Text of the legislation is available here.

Background:

According to a 2024 GAO study on broadband deployment, the BLM and Forest Service, which handle most permitting reviews on federal lands, often exceed the 270-day statutory deadline for processing applications. Lengthy application reviews, excessive fees, and complex environmental and historic preservation reviews mean service delays and higher prices, leaving ordinary Americans without essential broadband services.

Last year, the House Energy and Commerce Full Committee and the Subcommittee on Communication and Technology both unanimously advanced Congressman August Pfluger's (TX-11) bipartisan bill to improve transparency and efficiency in the broadband deployment process. Watch his remarks in committee on his legislation here.