Media Contact: 
Cecilia Sulhoff, 202-418-0587
Cecilia.Sulhoff@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC TAKES STEPS TO PROMOTE WIRELESS 
BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT
Removing Barriers to Investment Needed for America’s 5G Future
WASHINGTON, April 20, 2017 – The Federal Communications Commission today opened a 
proceeding to identify and address unnecessary regulatory barriers to wireless infrastructure 
deployment.  The Commission’s goal is to promote the rapid deployment of advanced wireless 
broadband service to all Americans.  
The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) begins an examination of how state and local
processes affect the speed and cost of infrastructure deployment, and asks for comment on
improving state and local infrastructure reviews, such as zoning requests.  Among other things, 
the NPRM seeks comment on whether siting applications that are not acted on by state or local 
governments within a reasonable period of time should be “deemed granted” by Commission 
rules.   
The NPRM also examines FCC rules and procedures for complying with the National Historic 
Preservation Act and National Environmental Policy Act.  The Commission seeks input on the 
costs and benefits inherent in the historic preservation and environmental review processes as 
currently structured and asks what changes could be made to minimize costs and delays.  
In the Notice of Inquiry adopted today, the Commission asks for comment on two provisions of 
the Communications Act, Sections 253 and 332, that acknowledge the importance of state and 
local regulation, but also protect against regulations that impose barriers to entry or are otherwise 
unreasonable.  
Current and next-generation wireless broadband have the potential to bring enormous benefits to 
the U.S., supporting millions of jobs and billions of dollars in investment.  In order to continue to 
meet demand and to achieve the potential of next-generation services, wireless providers will 
depend on having a regulatory framework that promotes and facilitates network infrastructure
deployment.  
Action by the Commission April 20, 2017 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Notice of 
Inquiry (FCC 17-38). Chairman Pai and Commissioner O’Rielly approving.  Commissioner 
Clyburn Concurring.  Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn and O’Rielly issuing separate 
statements.  
WT Docket No. 17-79
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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. Cir. 1974).