The Department of the Interior’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs has introduced a revised policy aimed at accelerating the approval process for tribal broadband infrastructure projects. The change is part of Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum’s ongoing effort to make it easier for tribal communities to pursue initiatives related to infrastructure and energy.
The updated framework is designed to streamline how right-of-way applications are processed for broadband construction across Indian Country, with an emphasis on reaching rural areas that currently lack adequate service.
“This new policy supports the Trump administration’s commitment to cutting red tape and upholding tribal sovereignty,” said Janel Broderick, principal deputy assistant secretary for Indian Affairs. “Expediting processes and respecting tribal decision-making are key to fulfilling our responsibilities to tribal communities.”
To build new broadband networks on tribal or individually owned trust or restricted lands, obtaining rights-of-way is required. The Bureau of Indian Affairs will now review each application within seven business days and notify applicants if further information is needed. The policy also outlines when certain regulatory requirements may be waived and emphasizes deference to tribes and landowners in determining what serves their interests.
Broadband access is considered vital for economic growth, education, healthcare, and development in tribal areas. Technologies covered under broadband include fiber optics, wireless systems, cable, internet services, satellites, and more.
The full policy text can be found at NPM-TRUS-48: Streamlining the Rights-of-Way Application Processes for Broadband Infrastructure Projects Across Indian Trust and Restricted Land.
A series of webinars explaining the new procedures will be available for staff from Indian Affairs, tribal realty offices, federally recognized tribes, Alaska Native corporations, federal partners, industry stakeholders, and others interested in participating. Sessions are scheduled for September 12 at 1 p.m. EDT; September 15 at 1 p.m. EDT; and September 18 at 2 p.m. EDT. Registration details are available online through the Bureau of Indian Affairs website (https://www.bia.gov/bia/ots/dres).
