Reducing Barriers for Broadband on Federal Lands Act of 2025

# Reducing Barriers for Broadband on Federal Lands Act of 2025 **What the Bill Does** This bill would streamline the process for installing broadband infrastructure on federal lands, such as national forests, public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, and other government-owned property. Currently, telecommunications companies must navigate a lengthy and complex approval process to build cell towers, fiber optic lines, and other internet equipment on these lands. The bill aims to reduce those barriers and speed up the approval timeline, making it easier and faster for companies to expand internet coverage in rural and remote areas. **Who It Affects** The legislation would primarily benefit rural communities and areas with limited internet access, as well as telecommunications companies seeking to expand their networks.

Federal land managers would also be affected, as they would need to implement new streamlined procedures. Indirectly, it impacts anyone living in underserved areas where broadband infrastructure could be improved. **Current Status** As of now, HR 2298 remains in committee and has not advanced to a full floor vote in the House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Russ Fulcher (R-ID) in the 119th Congress.