Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act

# Federal Broadband Deployment Tracking Act Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill would require the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), a federal agency, to create and submit a plan to Congress for tracking broadband infrastructure applications. Specifically, it would track how applications are received, processed, and decided upon when companies request permission to build or modify communications facilities—such as cell towers, fiber optic cables, or other equipment—on federal public lands or National Forest System land. **Who It Affects and Why It Matters** The bill primarily affects telecommunications companies seeking to expand broadband and wireless service, federal land managers who handle these requests, and Congress, which would oversee the process. By establishing a tracking system, the bill aims to improve transparency and efficiency in how the government handles broadband infrastructure applications on public lands.

This could potentially speed up deployment of broadband services to underserved areas. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (HR 1343) is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced by Representative August Pfluger, a Republican from Texas.