Sen. Rubio announces legislative agenda for wireless

In an event at DC tech incubator 1776, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) unveiled his legislative plan for wireless, including a standalone bill to promote the deployment of wireless infrastructure. After outlining his agenda for reallocating spectrum and expanding Wi-Fi, he said that neither goal can be accomplished without sufficient infrastructure in place. Sen. Rubio said that government at all levels should not be a barrier to deployment; noting that confusing statutes and outdated local rules and regulations should not stand in the way of deploying infrastructure or modifying facilities. Sen. Rubio spoke of streamlining rules for small cells and modifications to existing structures, and said that local governments should not use review processes to collect fees—they should be used to expedite deployment. Speaking from his experience as a West Miami city commissioner, he said that each city and town has its priorities, but that some of these processes are delaying deployment. The Senator also noted that Washington has a role to play to ensure facilitated siting on federal properties through standardized contracts and application forms. Jonathan Adelstein, the President & CEO of PCIA - America’s wireless infrastructure association, today praised Sen. Rubio’s plan to introduce legislation aimed at promoting the deployment of wireless infrastructure. “With today’s announcement, Senator Rubio is demonstrating urgently needed leadership in fostering innovation and helping to meet consumers’ burgeoning demand for wireless data. Senator Rubio prominently places his name atop a growing list of policymakers that support clearing hurdles to deployment of wireless broadband. The Senator’s approach recognizes the essential role of wireless infrastructure in expanding broadband capacity. Government should not be a barrier because Americans cannot afford a delay in wireless broadband deployment due to outdated and burdensome rules,” said Adelstein, a former FCC commissioner. “Senator Rubio’s legislation will speed broadband connectivity to all parts of America by creating the policies necessary to ensure federal land can be appropriately utilized for broadband infrastructure deployment. As a former local official, he understands the partnership that is required to get antennas where they need to go, from small cells to larger facilities. His proposed legislation would eliminate unnecessary hurdles that slow the delivery of broadband services to the public. This legislation will pave the way for broadband investments that will create jobs, economic growth and enhance public safety,” added Adelstein.