Broadband and Telecommunications RAIL Act
Broadband and Telecommunications RAIL Act
Plain Language Summary
# Broadband and Telecommunications RAIL Act Summary **What the bill does:** The Broadband and Telecommunications RAIL Act would create a standardized process for internet and telecommunications companies to install or upgrade equipment along railroad corridors. Currently, there's no clear framework for this. The bill would require broadband providers to submit applications to railroad companies, which must respond within 60 days. Railroad carriers could only reject applications if they pose safety risks or would damage railroad infrastructure.
Once approved, work would need to start within 30 days, and providers would pay railroads for their actual costs. **Who it affects:** This bill primarily affects telecommunications and broadband companies seeking to expand internet access, railroad companies that own the corridor rights-of-way, and ultimately consumers who want better broadband coverage in areas near railroad lines. It could help expand broadband to rural or underserved areas by making it easier to use railroad corridors as pathways for fiber optic cables and other equipment. **Current status:** The bill was introduced by Rep. John Joyce (R-PA) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't been voted on by the full House yet. No action has been taken.
CRS Official Summary
Broadband and Telecommunications RAIL ActThis bill establishes a framework for the placement or modification of broadband or telecommunications equipment in a railroad corridor.Specifically, if a broadband or telecommunications provider is seeking to place or modify equipment within a railroad carrier’s right-of-way, the provider must submit an application to the carrier. A carrier must approve or deny an application within 60 days of receipt, and may only deny an application for safety reasons or if the placement or modification would substantially interfere with or damage railroad infrastructure. Once an application is approved, work must be scheduled in coordination with the carrier and generally must begin within 30 days. A provider must pay the railroad carrier for actual costs incurred with respect to the application.However, if a provider has been authorized by a state or local government to place or modify equipment in a public right-of-way in an area that intersects with a railroad corridor, the provider need only notify the relevant railroad carrier and schedule the work in coordination with the carrier. Work must generally begin between 15 and 30 days after the notification is submitted. No fee is required.A provider or carrier may petition the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for relief if the other has failed to comply with these provisions.The FCC must promulgate regulations to implement these provisions in a manner that ensures railroad safety, provides a timelier process for emergency situations, and prevents substantial interference with railroad infrastructure or operations, among other requirements.
Latest Action
Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 51 - 0.