CLOSE THE GAP Act

This bill changes how federal agencies such as the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service handle permits to place broadband and other communications equipment on federal land. It requires agencies to write uniform rules within one year, post application numbers online, give written reasons for denials, set lease terms of at least 30 years, and accept applications through online portals. It exempts certain communications projects from federal environmental and historic preservation reviews, including projects on land that was already reviewed or equipment placed on existing infrastructure. It also lets agencies keep application fees in special accounts for communications site work, requires a report on permit delays, and creates an interagency working group.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• John Barrasso Republican sponsor
• 2 cosponsors