Public Affairs Activities at American Tower
We believe, as a leader in supporting wireless connectivity globally, we have a significant role to play in fostering connectivity in a responsible, equitable, and sustainable manner. Within the regulatory and policy arena, we collaborate with our customers, shareholders, and partners to enable connectivity solutions for both the present and the future. By assuming leadership roles in industry groups, participating in global organizations, and engaging with governments considering relevant legislation, we contribute to the creation of more informed public policies.
Public Policy Positions
Sustainability
We put sustainability at the core of how we operate, which has a positive impact on our business performance. We believe that encouraging innovation and thought leadership, as well as seeking to meet high standards and practices, benefits our bottom line and the communities in which we operate. Our unwavering commitment to sustainability plays a critical role in our overall strategy. Read more in our Sustainability Report and our Corporate Blog.
Connectivity
American Tower advocates for policies that promote building a more connected world. Our business model, existing network of infrastructure assets across the globe, and experience working with local communities position the company to support 5G deployment, as well as future network and technological evolutions. Ultimately, American Tower supports policies that create a flexible regulatory framework to promote the deployment of 5G and other national broadband solutions.
Industry Groups
American Tower is a member of industry groups, trade associations, and coalitions, which can amplify our voice on public policy priorities and provide industry insights and shared expertise.
Our global Public Affairs Committee reviews the costs and benefits of membership, as well as each organization’s alignment with our public policy goals on an annual basis. Memberships include but are not limited to the following:
• Americas Society / Council of the Americas
• Business Council for International Understanding
• CTIA – The Wireless Association
• National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (Nareit)
• The Business Roundtable
• U.S.-Africa Business Center
• Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA)
Political Participation
As a matter of policy, American Tower does not make political contributions in support of any party or candidate in any election, whether federal, state or local and the company does not have, nor does it plan to have, a Political Action Committee (PAC). Consistent with this policy, American Tower does not use corporate funds to support “Super PACs” or political organizations operating under 26 U.S. Sec. 527 of the Internal Revenue Code known as “Section 527 organizations”.
We also circulate an annual letter to organizations where we participate, specifying that any dues paid by American Tower may not be used for activities that would constitute political contributions, expenditures, or electioneering communications under the Federal Election Campaign Act or under any State law.
Corporate Governance
American Tower’s Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, Policy Alignment Board, and Board of Directors regularly ensure adherence to public disclosure requirements and ongoing oversight of public policy matters.