The American Broadband Deployment Act (H.R. 3557): A Threat to Local Autonomy

In the age of rapid technological advancement, the need for robust communication infrastructure is undeniable. However, the means to achieve this shouldn't come at thecost of local autonomy and the well-being of communities. Enter the proposed bill H.R. 3557, also known as theAmerican Broadband Deployment Act of 2023. While its name might suggest a promising step towards bridging the digital divide, a closer look reveals alarming implications for state and local control.

H.R. 3557: What Does It Mean for Local Communities?

At its core, H.R. 3557 seeks to fast-track the deployment of wireless and other communication facilities. But here's the catch: itaims to do so by bypassing the very state and local regulatory processes designed to safeguard citizens. These processes ensure that installations, such as cell towers and small cells, are placed with consideration to the health, safety, and preferences of the local community.

If passed, this bill would grant the federal government unprecedented power, allowing for theunchecked proliferation of cell towers and small cell installations. Imagine walking your child to school and noticing a new cell tower erected overnight near the playground, all without any community consultation.

If you’re interested in why the dissemination of cell towers and 5G can be detrimental for our health, read morehere on the health costs of 5G,here on the protests on such rollout in certain countries andhere on how to protect yourself from tower radiation

Why Should You Care?

1. Health Concerns: Numerous studies have raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields from cell towers. With H.R. 3557 in place, these towers could pop up near homes, schools, and parks, exposing countless individuals to potential health hazards.
2. Environmental Impact: The unchecked installation of communication facilities can have detrimental effects on the environment. By bypassing critical regulatory safeguards like environmental reviews, we risk harming local ecosystems.
3. Loss of Privacy: The rise of small cells and other communication devices can lead to increased surveillance, jeopardizing our privacy and autonomy.
4. Historical and Cultural Preservation:The bill threatens to eliminate historic preservation reviews, potentially allowing installations in areas of cultural and historical significance.

If you’re looking to further understand the health implications of EMF radiation, read morehere on immunity, brain healthhere and fertilityhere. 

The Bigger Picture: Local Control vs. Corporate Interests

The American Broadband Deployment Act, while packaged as a solution to enhance connectivity, seems more aligned with advancing corporate interests. By stripping away state and local jurisdiction and eliminating critical checks and balances, it paves the way for the telecom industry to expand without restraint.

Communities across the nation have diverse needs and challenges. A one-size-fits-all federal law, like H.R. 3557,disregards thisdiversity, potentially leading to decisions that don't serve the best interests of individual communities.

Take Action: Your Voice Matters

The potential consequences of H.R. 3557 are clear: a loss of local control, potential health risks, environmental damage, and a breach of privacy. But there's still hope. By raising awareness and voicing our concerns, we can influence the trajectory of this bill.

Join the movement to #KillHR3557. Reach out to your elected officials and express your opposition to the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2023. Together, we can ensure that the interests of communities are placed above corporate agendas.

Therefore, while the promise of enhanced connectivity is tempting, it shouldn't come at the expense of local autonomy and the well-being of our communities. Let's strive for a future where technological advancement and community welfare go hand in hand.