CommLaw Group Attorney Ron Quirk was quoted in a recent Law360 article: “FCC’s Infrastructure Votes Pave Way for Bold 5G Push.” In its just released Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Notice of Inquiry, the FCC has teed up critical proposals to remove regulatory roadblocks and streamline the deployment of wireless infrastructure for 5G services. There are a number of controversial aspects of this proceeding, including federal preemption, local and municipal authority over wireless infrastructure, as well as the use of public rights-of-ways for infrastructure deployment.
This is the Big One. The rules that will result from this proceeding will go a long way toward defining the wireless broadband regulatory landscape for years to come. Hence, this proceeding is of vital importance to municipalities, Tribal Nations, historical organizations, environmentalists, tower owners, telecom service providers, small cell and distributed antenna service (“DAS”) suppliers, and virtually any stakeholder in the Internet of Things (“IoT”) industry.
Specifically, the FCC seeks comment on numerous issues pertaining to:
- How local, State, and Commission rules affect the speed and cost of infrastructure deployment.
- What time limits should apply to local review, and a proposal to “deem granted” applications.
- The use and impact of State and local moratoria.
- A review of FCC rules and procedures for historic preservation and environmental reviews.
- How Sections 253 and 332(c)(7) of the Communications Act apply to wireless facilities.
The CommLaw Group has represented many clients in matters involving wireless equipment regulations
and infrastructure siting rules and policies. Our firm has experts who can assist you with any questions
you may have concerning this FCC proceeding and related issues. To learn more, please contact
Ron Quirk at req@commlawgroup.com, or 703-714-1305.
