June 25, 2026— America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects) released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to launch a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on permitting reform and removal of other State and local regulatory barriers to the deployment of wireline networks.
“We’re thankful to the FCC for its continued efforts on permitting and other reforms that will accelerate wireline telecommunications and broadband deployment,” said America’s Communications Association President and CEO Grant Spellmeyer. “By lifting unnecessary delays, excessive fees, and unreasonable requirements like rate regulation, the FCC has an historic opportunity to give providers the certainty they need to build their networks and plan long-term investments. As it moves forward, ACA Connects will continue to work collaboratively with the FCC to ensure reforms help independent providers deliver reliable high-speed connectivity to the communities that depend on it.”
Examples of ACA Connects advocacy on permitting reforms include:
- FCC Filings
- ACA Connects Applauds the FCC’s Build America Agenda
- ACA Connects Applauds FCC on Advancing Permitting Reforms to Speed Up Deployments
- ACA Connects Advocates for FCC to Eliminate Permitting Barriers
- Telecompetitor: ACA Connects Calls for FCC Action on Permitting Reform
- Light Reading: ACA Connects wants FCC to preempt state laws on permitting, rates
America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects) is a trade organization representing approximately 500 small and medium-sized, independent companies that provide high-speed internet, video, phone, and mobile services covering 29 million households. ACA Connects members operate in every state, providing advanced communications to connect homes, companies, main street, schools, hospitals and more. America’s economic prosperity in smaller communities and rural areas depends on the growth and success of independent operators, who believe a connected nation is a prosperous nation. For more information, visit www.acaconnects.org.