Cities and counties across the US are angry at the Trump administration over a proposal to override local rules for wired broadband deployment. The FCC has taken public comments on a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to preempt state and local permitting rules, arguing that local governments "excessively delay approvals and seek to extract exorbitant sums from providers."

The plan is supported by broadband providers, but local governments say it would override public safety rules and is illegal. They object to a 120-day deadline for permits and limits on fees. A September 21 filing by the United States Conference of Mayors, National Association of Counties, National League of Cities, and National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors said local permitting is essential for public safety and cannot be reduced to an arbitrary federal deadline.

Local governments say ISPs are often to blame for delays, urging the FCC to require providers to deploy within 180 days of local authorization and to address permit-hoarding. The League of California Cities said the FCC has no authority to adopt the proposal without clear congressional authorization.