FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has issued an open letter to US Representative Steny Hoyer, warning of a $3.08 billion shortfall in funding for the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program. The program aims to replace insecure wireless equipment from Chinese manufacturers such as Huawei and ZTE.
The program is facing a critical funding shortage, putting national security at risk. According to Rosenworcel, if the commission funds all reasonable estimates, the program would require $4.98 billion, leaving a shortfall of $3.08 billion compared to the current appropriation of $1.9 billion.
This issue has been highlighted before. Last July, the FCC cautioned that 40% of wireless providers may struggle to complete their rip-and-replace requirements without additional funding. Despite this, recipients are still required to remove all covered equipment and services from their networks. Rosenworcel’s letter emphasizes the urgency of providing more funding for the program to ensure national security and connectivity for rural consumers.
Source: https://www.telecompetitor.com/fcc-chair-rosenworcel-sounds-the-alarm-on-rip-and-replace-program