SC New York News

On Wednesday, Congressman Nick Langworthy of New York's 23rd District introduced the Wireless Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act in Washington, D.C. This proposed legislation aims to streamline the broadband permitting process by codifying a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule from 2020.

The bill is designed to facilitate quicker improvements for wireless service providers on existing communications towers and equipment. By simplifying the approval process, the act seeks to enhance network reliability and support the expansion of wireless services, including 5G, across the United States.

A key provision of the Wireless Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act mandates that state and local governments must approve applications for modifications and improvements to existing networks within sixty days. This requirement is intended to prevent unnecessary delays in upgrading services, benefiting both providers and consumers.

Congressman Langworthy emphasized the importance of this legislation for areas lacking stable cell service, particularly in Western New York and the Southern Tier. "There are still large swaths of areas across Western New York and the Southern Tier that don’t have stable cell service," he stated. He added that cutting red tape is essential for inviting economic investment to these regions: "If we are going to invite economic investment to the region, our people desperately need broadband."

Langworthy expressed hope for bipartisan support as the bill progresses through Congress. "Once these companies can expand faster, consumers will be able to get better, more reliable cell service," he noted.