This bill requires the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service to create online portals for processing requests to install or modify communications infrastructure on public lands or in national forests. The portals would allow companies to more easily apply for the necessary authorizations to build things like cell towers or internet cables.
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AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill requires the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service to create online portals for processing requests to install or modify communications infrastructure on public lands or in national forests. The portals would allow companies to more easily apply for the necessary authorizations to build things like cell towers or internet cables.
Last updated: 12/29/2025
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><b>Deploying Infrastructure with Greater Internet Transactions And Legacy Applications Act or the DIGITAL Applications Act</b></p> <p>This bill requires the Department of the Interior and the Forest Service to each establish an online portal for processing communications use authorizations. These are requests for easements, rights-of-way, leases, licenses, or other authorizations to locate or modify a transmitting device, support structure, or other communications facility on public lands or National Forest System land.</p> <p>Interior and the Forest Service must also notify the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) within three business days of establishing their respective portals, and once the portals are established, the NTIA must link to them from its website.</p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Creates online portals for communications companies to request permits for infrastructure on public lands and national forests
Requires the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to link to these portals on its website
Aims to streamline the application process for communications companies seeking to build or expand their networks
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
If this bill becomes law, it would primarily impact communications companies that rely on public lands or national forests to build and maintain their infrastructure. It could make it quicker and easier for them to get the necessary approvals to install or upgrade cell towers, internet cables, and other communications facilities. This could lead to expanded broadband and cell coverage in rural and remote areas, benefiting residents and businesses in those communities.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Science, Technology, Communications
Related Subjects
Government buildings, facilities, and property
Government information and archives
Internet, web applications, social media
Land use and conservation
Telephone and wireless communication
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
3299, 119th Congress (2025). "Restroom Access Act of 2025". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-3299
