Interior launches policy to speed tribal broadband approvals

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs has announced a new policy to expedite the review of tribal broadband infrastructure projects, according to the department. The framework is designed to streamline right-of-way applications needed to construct broadband networks on tribal and individually owned Indian trust or restricted lands, with a focus on unserved and underserved communities.

Under the change, the Bureau of Indian Affairs has seven business days to review applications and request additional information. The policy also provides guidance on regulatory waivers and defers to tribes and landowners in determining their best interests. Webinars on the new process will be held Sept. 12, 15 and 18 for tribal, federal and industry stakeholders.