Federal Action Agenda
Cities have faced a rising tide of preemption at the state and federal levels over the past several years, particularly in the area of wireless telecommunications facility sitting policy. Last year, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted regulations limiting the authority of cities and states to regulate small cell sites (e.g., attachments to street lights and utility poles) needed for the deployment of 5G. The regulations took effect on January 14, 2019.
Cities, towns and villages are eager to welcome new technologies like 5G, but we must retain the authority to protect the diverse needs of America’s residents.
Action and Legislation
- Support H.R. 530 and S. 2012 to Empower Local Broadband Leadership
- NLC calls on Congress to cosponsor H.R. 530, the Accelerating Wireless Broadband Development by Empowering Local Communities Act of 2019, introduced by Representative Anna Eshoo (D-CA-18) and S. 2012, the Restoring Local Control Over Public Infrastructure Act of 2019, introduced by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA). The two bills would repeal recent harmful FCC regulations that force local governments to subsidize the deployment of 5G wireless infrastructure on public property with no guarantee of improved service for residents.
Resources
- COVID-19: How Local Leaders Can Help Vulnerable Households Get Online
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, most communities have been asked to restrict their movements and access education, work, socializing, and healthcare online at home. However, more than 20% of households lack a laptop or desktop computer at home or in-home broadband. The percentage climbs for low-income and older adult community members. This webinar was hosted by the National League of Cities and the National Digital Inclusion Alliance to learn what steps local leaders can take right now to help low-income and vulnerable families access broadband connections and devices to get online during the crisis. - Webinar Recording