Opposition to the bill is led by organizations representing cities and counties, with officials like NATOA’s Mike Lynch arguing it usurps local authority over rights-of-way and land use.

The House is expected to vote on H.R. 2289, the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025, which would streamline permitting for wireless, wireline, and cable franchise requests by imposing strict timelines and a deemed-granted approval if deadlines are missed.

Industry supporters, mainly the telecom sector, are expected to back the bill, while local governments vehemently oppose it, arguing it erodes local control, harms safety and finances, and prioritizes shareholder value over community needs.

The bill’s fate hinges on its passage in the House, potential consideration in the Senate, and eventual signature by the President, with its enactment signaling a major shift in how broadband permitting is governed at the local level.

The proposal would exempt a broad set of projects from environmental impact statements and historic preservation consultations, and would loosen tribal approvals to favor industry.

The bill would set fixed timelines for local governments to approve or deny permit requests, ranging from 60 to 150 days, and would automatically grant permits if deadlines are missed, reducing local discretion.