Petroplex News

Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) has introduced the Supporting National Security with Spectrum Act, aimed at fully funding the "Rip and Replace" program to remove Chinese equipment from U.S. telecommunications networks. Without full funding, wireless and broadband providers across the country could face significant costs leading to service blackouts and potential company closures. Senator Steve Daines of Montana has introduced the Senate companion legislation, S. 4049.

“There are over 6,000 sites across the United States in need of this funding, 341 of which are in Texas alone,” said Representative August Pfluger. “The Supporting National Security with Spectrum Act is vital to our national security and to ensure rural communities do not lose access to basic connectivity. If left unfunded, Chinese equipment such as Huawei and ZTE will remain in our networks, including near areas of strategic importance, such as military bases and airports. Rural and remote areas would be hit the hardest as networks could shut down and eliminate the only mobile broadband service provider for entire communities."

“Time is of the essence for Montanans who could lose 911 and cell service, and it is critical to our national security that we replace Chinese telecommunications equipment for our small and rural network providers,” said Senator Steve Daines. “We must get this done before it’s too late. Thank you, Congressman Pfluger, for taking the lead on this important bill in the House.”

The Rip and Replace program was created in 2020 to remove Chinese components from U.S. wireless communications systems but requires an additional $3 billion to complete its mission due to continued national security concerns.

The Supporting National Security with Spectrum Act aims to fund this program by requiring the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to re-auction certain spectrum licenses recently returned to it.

Several organizations have expressed support for this bill:

“CCA commends Congressman August Pfluger (R-TX) for leading the introduction of the Supporting National Security with Spectrum Act in the House," said Tim Donovan, President and CEO of Competitive Carriers Association.

Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of NTCA - The Rural Broadband Association stated: "Now more than ever, it is critical that broadband providers have resources necessary to remove insecure equipment from our nation's telecommunications networks."

Melissa Newman, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs at TIA – Telecommunications Industry Association remarked: “Ensuring the security and resiliency of U.S. communications networks remains a primary goal for TIA.”

Todd Schlekeway, President & CEO at NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association added: “This important legislation would mitigate the real threat to our national security posed by insecure networks and devices.”

The Rural Wireless Association's Letter of Support noted: "Participating carriers need additional funds immediately beyond their pro-rated allocations."

Derrick Owens from WTA emphasized: "WTA urges Congress to provide funding so [the FCC] can complete this important task."

Jason Oxman from ITI commented: “Fully funding FCC’s rip-and-replace program is essential for ensuring continued connectivity in rural America.”