Bill would require online filing for cell tower permits on federal land
Passed one chamberH.R. 1665Latest action
Sponsor: Kat Cammack · Representative · FL
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: DIGITAL Applications Act
119th Congress
Topics: AI & technology
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 1665 requires Interior and the Forest Service to build online portals for cell tower permit forms within one year.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 1665, the DIGITAL Applications Act, requires the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture's Forest Service to each create an online system within one year for submitting, tracking, and completing "Form 299," used to build or modify communications equipment like cell towers on federal land. The agencies must then notify the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which will post links to the portals on its website.
Who does it affect?
The bill mainly affects telecommunications companies and other businesses seeking permits to place equipment on public or National Forest land.
Why does it matter?
The change could speed up and add transparency to the approval process, potentially accelerating cell service and internet infrastructure expansion in rural or federally managed areas. The bill does not alter eligibility rules or requirements, only the submission and processing method.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 27, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Mar 17, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.