Broadband Competition and Efficient Deployment Act

The Broadband Competition and Efficient Deployment Act aims to speed up the construction of high-speed internet networks, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The bill proposes to streamline the federal permitting process by exempting certain broadband projects from requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). By removing these regulatory steps, the legislation seeks to reduce the time and cost associated with deploying fiber optic cables and other essential communications infrastructure.

If enacted, the bill would likely lead to faster internet build-outs for residents who currently lack reliable connectivity. Proponents argue that cutting this "red tape" is necessary to close the digital divide and ensure that federal funding for broadband is used efficiently. However, the practical impact would also mean that these infrastructure projects would proceed without the standard federal oversight intended to evaluate their environmental impact or their effect on historically significant sites.