Wireless Telecommunications Investment Act Becomes Law

Earlier this month, Indiana’s Governor Mike Pence signed the Wireless Telecommunications Investment Act into law. This new law will promote investment in wireless telecommunications infrastructure by removing state and local regulatory officials. The bill was originally passed by the Indiana House of Representatives in February, but then had to be considered by the Senate. Jonathan Adelstein, the President and CEO of PCIA – The Wireless Infrastructure Association, said, “PCIA salutes the passage of Indiana House Bill 1318, which will help increase the availability and capacity of wireless broadband services in every region of the state. PCIA applauds the cooperation between industry and municipalities, which forged a partnership to support the bill. In particular, the new law will help deploy innovative small wireless facilities by defining them using a PCIA-developed volume-based and technology-neutral methodology. This new approach will improve communications providers’ access to rights-of-way, spurring quicker and less costly deployment. The bill will also establish certainty regarding key statewide definitions and set timelines that will increase investment, thereby providing a path for Indiana’s consumers, business, and public safety entities to enjoy increased broadband coverage and capacity.”