Bill > HR1343

This bill requires the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to develop and submit a comprehensive plan to Congress within 180 days of the act's enactment, detailing how they will track, process, and manage Form 299s, which are authorization forms for communications facilities on public lands and National Forest System lands. The plan must outline the process for tracking these forms, provide greater transparency to applicants about their Form 299 status, and identify any potential implementation barriers. The bill defines several key terms, including "communications facility" (referring to installations for communication purposes), "covered land" (public lands and National Forest System lands), and "communications use authorization" (permissions from the Departments of Interior or Agriculture to place or modify communication facilities). The bill aims to streamline and improve the process for obtaining permits for communication infrastructure on federal lands, ensuring more efficient and transparent authorization procedures. By mandating this tracking plan, the legislation seeks to reduce bureaucratic delays and provide clearer guidance for companies seeking to deploy broadband and communication infrastructure in public and forest lands.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1343/all-info