WASHINGTON, D.C. – November 18, 2025 – INCOMPAS, the internet and competitive networks association, released the following statement of support in response to the introduction of the Broadband and Telecommunications RAIL Act.
“Today’s introduction of the Broadband and Telecommunications RAIL Act marks a critical step toward addressing one of the most significant obstacles to broadband deployment in America: Railroad Crossings. For too long, INCOMPAS members have been forced to operate in a ‘wild west’ environment because neither the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) nor the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has clear authority to enforce reasonable permitting timelines or cost standards. We’ve seen permits languish for nearly 20 months without a response, only for providers to be hit with fees exceeding $40,000 for a single crossing. This legislation finally establishes clear timelines, fair compensation rules, and meaningful dispute-resolution processes that will end these costly delays and put a stop to modern-day railroad robbery,” said Chip Pickering, CEO, INCOMPAS.
Leaders from INCOMPAS member companies emphasized the bill’s importance:
“Conterra wants to thank INCOMPAS, and especially the Sponsors of this bill, for their hard work and resolve to move this important legislation forward. This bill will streamline broadband deployment in a safe and responsible manner and help to ensure that the benefits of competition and economic growth are available to Americans regardless of where they may live. Enacting this bill would be a significant step towards removing the digital divide, not by giving companies new federal dollars, but by letting companies use their existing resources more effectively to rapidly deploy much needed competition in the broadband market in rural and urban areas alike. This bill is a win for the public. Conterra sincerely hopes this legislation is adopted so we, along with all of our fellow providers, can efficiently bring the benefits of a truly competitive broadband market to all Americans,” said Craig Gunderson, President & CEO, Conterra Ultra Broadband LLC d/b/a Conterra Networks.
“Every opportunity we have to remove barriers and encourage fiber deployment is a win for our shared communities. This bill would remove significant cost and permitting barriers for Sonic and other telecommunications providers that inhibit our ability to reach more communities with fast and affordable internet services. We whole-heartedly support this legislation and the ability to streamline our fiber deployment process, move faster, and pass along the cost savings to our customers,” said Nathan Patrick, CEO, Sonic Telecom.
“Through this legislation, we’re advancing a more transparent and predictable process for telecom providers and railroads alike. Establishing shared rules will remove longstanding bottlenecks and allow critical broadband projects to move forward faster and more efficiently nationwide,” said Kurt Van Wagenen, CEO, Summit Broadband.
“Zayo strongly supports this bill, which will provide the efficient, reliable, and predictable access to rights-of-way and railroad corridors needed to deploy the fiber infrastructure that powers AI and America’s digital future. Today’s broadband buildouts are too often delayed by inconsistent processes, complex permitting, and unpredictable timelines—especially at railroad crossings. The RAIL Act addresses these challenges by setting clear timelines, establishing reasonable cost-based compensation, and creating a fair dispute-resolution process, all while maintaining the highest standards of railroad safety. We appreciate INCOMPAS for its leadership introducing this legislation and look forward to working with policymakers, rail carriers, and communities to accelerate next-generation broadband deployment nationwide,” said Ted Gilliam, General Counsel, Strategic Sales and Infrastructure Policy, ZAYO.
“This bipartisan, bicameral bill delivers the regulatory certainty necessary to accelerate broadband deployment while maintaining strong rail safety standards. We commend Congressman John Joyce, Congressman Scott Peters, Congressman Greg Landsman, Senator Marsha Blackburn, and Senator Ben Ray Luján for their leadership on this vital effort and look forward to working with Congress to ensure its swift passage,” Pickering continued.
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