FCC to Consider Wireline Streamlining Rule Making

During its June 25, 2026 Opening Meeting, the FCC is set to consider a Notice of Proposed Rule Making that would propose and seek comment on standards for when state and local statutes, regulations, and legal requirements have a prohibitive effect on the provision of wireline telecommunications services in violation of Section 253 of the Communications Act, particularly through the imposition of excessive delays and fees that impede infrastructure deployments and disincentivize investments in new infrastructure.

The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) released the following statement in support of the NPRM. The statement can be attributed to Patrick Halley, President and CEO, WIA:

“The Commission is poised to take an important step advancing its Build America Agenda through its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to eliminate barriers to wireline deployments.  Establishing common-sense rules of the road for these critical deployments will ensure equitable and cost-effective access to Rights of Ways to facilitate the deployment of next-generation communications systems.   

“Wireline services serve as a backbone for wireless connectivity. Importantly, this item supports predictable, proportionate, and transparent permitting procedures that would foster our nation’s wireline and wireless connected future.”