NEWS Federal Communications Commission 445 12 th Street, S.W. Washington, D. C. 20554 This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974). News Media Information 202 / 418-0500 Internet: http://www.fcc.gov TTY: 1-888-835-5322 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: September 26, 2013 Cecilia Sulhoff: (202) 418-0587 Email: cecilia.sulhoff@fcc.gov FCC PROPOSES TO REMOVE BARRIERS TO WIRELESS INFRASTRUCTURE Washington, D.C. – As the Nation’s demand for wireless broadband service continues to grow at a rapid pace, the Federal Communications Commission continues its work to remove barriers to the deployment of infrastructure that supports such service. Today the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) initiating a review of its wireless infrastructure policies. The NPRM builds upon the Broadband Acceleration Initiative, including a 2011 Notice of Inquiry seeking comment on measures needed to reduce obstacles to obtaining access to rights-of- way and locations for wireless facilities. Specifically, the NPRM seeks comment on: ? Streamlining the environmental and historic preservation review processes for newer technologies, including small cells and distributed antenna systems; ? Removing barriers to the deployment of temporary towers, that are used in cases of emergencies or to add capacity during short term events; ? The meaning of terms included in a provision of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 which states “a State or local government may not deny, and shall approve, any eligible facilities request for a modification of an existing wireless tower or base station that does not substantially change the physical dimensions of such tower or base station;” and ? Clarification of issues addressed in the Commission’s “shot clock” order which set time periods for state and local governments to complete review of wireless siting applications. Increasing certainty in the FCC’s processes and removing barriers to infrastructure deployment will spur public and private investment, while expanding wireless coverage and capacity throughout the Nation. For more information on the FCC’s infrastructure rules and processes see: www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/tower-and-antenna-siting. Action by the Commission September 26, 2013, by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 13-122). Acting Chairwoman Clyburn, Commissioners Rosenworcel and Pai with Acting Chairwoman Clyburn, Commissioners Rosenworcel and Pai issuing statements. WT Docket No. 13-238 – FCC – For more news and information about the FCC please visit: www.fcc.gov.