River Bend Times

U.S. Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Debbie Dingell have reintroduced the Facilitating DIGITAL Applications Act. This legislation aims to enhance broadband expansion by mandating that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration periodically report to Congress on the progress of establishing an online portal by the Departments of Interior and Agriculture. This portal is intended for handling applications related to deploying communications facilities on federal property.

Representative Miller-Meeks emphasized the importance of expanding broadband access, stating, "Expanding broadband access has been one of my top priorities since coming to Congress because every American—no matter where they live—deserves reliable, high-speed internet." She highlighted how the pandemic exposed disparities between rural and urban areas in terms of digital connectivity, underscoring the need for a more efficient permitting process.

Congressman Brett Guthrie expressed support for the bill, noting that many Americans still lack reliable broadband access due to a complex federal permitting process. He stated, "I commend Representatives Miller-Meeks and Dingell for their bill to improve transparency so we can deploy broadband more quickly and, in turn, help close the digital divide."

Dingell also commented on previous efforts through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aimed at upgrading connectivity infrastructure. She said, “We need to make thoughtful, targeted improvements to permitting applications that will ensure we have an effective, streamlined system in place.” The proposed act is expected to modernize systems for processing applications related to new communications facilities.

The bill's objective is to expedite and enhance tracking of broadband deployment on federal lands. Further details about the bill are available online.