USTelecom Applauds Passage of SPEED Act: A Milestone for Broadband Infrastructure

The recent passage of the bipartisan SPEED Act in the U.S. House of Representatives has been met with widespread support, particularly from USTelecom – The Broadband Association. Sponsored by House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Representative Jared Golden (D-Maine), this legislation aims to modernize outdated federal permitting processes that have long hindered the rollout of critical infrastructure projects. The House approved the legislation by a vote of 221–196, signaling a growing bipartisan awareness of the urgent need for reform.

The Importance of Modernizing U.S. Infrastructure Permitting Systems

Outdated permitting processes, such as those dictated by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), have been cited as major roadblocks to building the infrastructure necessary for economic growth and connectivity. USTelecom’s Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, Brandon Heiner, emphasized the importance of these reforms, stating that “antiquated reviews and processes slow progress, raise costs, and ultimately hurt consumers.” The SPEED Act introduces critical updates to these reviews, allowing broadband initiatives to move forward more efficiently, reducing costs, and expediting deployment timelines.

Boosting Broadband and the Economy

Broadband connectivity is an essential driver of modern economies and communities. Delays caused by inefficient permitting rules not only slow technological advances but also increase overall infrastructure costs, burdening providers and end-users. By eliminating these bottlenecks, the SPEED Act could unlock significant investments in high-speed broadband networks, which would strengthen rural and urban connectivity while fueling economic development nationwide. This reform aligns with USTelecom’s commitment to deploying smarter, faster, and more secure networks, ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital age.

Next Steps: Senate Action on the SPEED Act

Following its success in the House, the SPEED Act now heads to the Senate, where USTelecom is urging lawmakers to act swiftly. Industry stakeholders hope that the Senate will recognize this bipartisan opportunity to push permitting reform across the finish line. “The House showed real leadership by passing the SPEED Act,” Heiner remarked, encouraging senators to continue the momentum. A reformed permitting system would provide America’s broadband providers with the certainty they need to deliver essential infrastructure more efficiently, fostering economic growth and ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet.

USTelecom expressed its readiness to collaborate with lawmakers in both chambers to implement practical, bipartisan solutions. The passing of the SPEED Act marks a turning point for modernizing America’s broadband infrastructure, paving the way for a more connected future that benefits businesses, consumers, and communities alike.