Key Points

• The Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act requires operators to rip and replace all non-compliant equipment in their networks. It prevents them from using Universal Services Funds to procure noncompliant equipment.
• The Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act includes $1 billion to cover associated network costs. The funding is insufficient – and has yet to be appropriated by Congress.
• Affected operators are stuck in a holding pattern as they wait for the Federal Communications Commission to define the rip and replace rules, and for Congress to appropriate the funds.
• All that uncertainty is wreaking havoc for affected operators and is putting rural residents at risk of losing critical communication services at the worst possible time.
• Operators urgently need Congress and the FCC to act so they can do their work to ensure rural residents stay connected.