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As technology continues to evolve, wireless infrastructure builders are setting their sights on securing regulatory reforms at both federal and state levels in 2025, with broadband permitting reform topping their legislative agenda. In recent policy proposals, industry leaders have urged lawmakers to establish a uniform, streamlined permitting process, an initiative that gained momentum in a House committee but ultimately failed to pass the last Congress.

The Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) released a policy roadmap on Thursday, emphasizing that infrastructure policy reforms, particularly those aimed at reducing permitting delays, are critical for the success of 5G deployment and the foundation for future wireless technologies. "This is critical to America's economic success and the safety and vitality of our communities," the WIA stated in its proposal. "Reducing delays and streamlining deployment should continue to be a north star for the new administration to ensure the ubiquitous deployment of 5G and beyond."

With the changing political landscape in Washington, infrastructure companies, responsible for building the necessary towers and installing equipment to expand wireless services, see an opportunity for progress. While permitting reform has enjoyed bipartisan support, some proposals, particularly those advanced by Republicans in the House, have faced challenges in securing Democratic backing—an obstacle that could hinder passage in the Senate.

In the last Congress, a sweeping bill aiming to curtail municipal review rights advanced in a GOP-led House panel but failed to gain significant support from Democrats. Municipal leaders have voiced concerns about the legislation, particularly provisions like the "deemed granted" requirement, which sets project approval deadlines and could limit local governments' review power.

The WIA's policy roadmap stresses the need for a visionary, mission-driven approach to wireless infrastructure development, suggesting that reforms should focus on strengthening existing rules while introducing common-sense changes. Patrick Halley, the WIA's president and CEO, highlighted the economic benefits of these reforms, noting that infrastructure investments would drive immediate job growth and contribute to broader economic development in communities across the nation.

Additionally, the roadmap calls for a predictable, transparent national framework for broadband permitting and a balanced federal review process for communications infrastructure projects. Other recommendations include establishing a spectrum pipeline for U.S. wireless needs, modernizing federal practices, and developing a skilled workforce to support future infrastructure growth.