NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association released the following statement from NTCA's Chief Executive Officer Mike Romano applauding the FCC for initiating a proceeding to address excessive delays and fees that impede deployment and modernization of broadband infrastructure:

"NTCA and its rural broadband provider members thank Chairman Carr for his relentless focus on removing barriers to broadband deployment. Consumers, especially those in small and rural communities, will reap the benefits as advanced networks can be upgraded more quickly thanks to the reforms contemplated by this proceeding.

NTCA has consistently advocated for permitting reform that balances the need for efficient deployment with the need for state and local governments to reasonably manage construction activities within their jurisdictions. This proceeding would set up the conditions to strike such an effective balance going forward, and NTCA looks forward to the adoption of final rules that will promote rural broadband deployment without excessive delay or cost."