Sets a new rule for federal broadband grants: if a state, territory, or one of its cities or counties charges fees for placing, building, or modifying broadband lines, it cannot receive these grant funds unless those fees are transparent, based on a clear, cost‑tied method, and applied fairly to everyone.

There is a narrow exception for one grant category already named in existing law. This aims to prevent hidden or excessive local charges that can slow broadband projects and raise costs, while still allowing reasonable, clearly explained, non‑discriminatory fees.