Bill would restore local control over 5G tower siting
In committeeH.R. 8354Latest action
Sponsor: Christopher H. Smith · Representative · NJ
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Official title: Securing Local Communities Input in Broadband Development Act
119th Congress
Topics: AI & technology
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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HR 8354 would cancel two 2018 FCC rulings and return local governments' power to set rules for broadband equipment placement.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill would cancel two FCC decisions from 2018 that limited what state and local governments could require from telecom companies installing 5G and other broadband equipment. Canceling those rulings would restore the ability of city councils, county boards, and other local governments to set their own conditions for placing cell towers, antennas, and related equipment on public property.
Who does it affect?
Local governments, telecommunications companies, and residents in communities that host broadband infrastructure would be most directly affected. Telecom companies currently operate under the looser federal standards the 2018 rulings put in place.
Why does it matter?
If passed, decision-making power over where and how broadband equipment is placed would shift from the federal government back to local governments. Telecom companies would need to meet local rules and conditions rather than the existing federal standards.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedApr 16, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · Apr 16, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.