The US House is set to vote on a bill allocating billions of dollars to remove Chinese telecom equipment from American networks, addressing security concerns and protecting national security.
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| Congress is set to allocate billions of dollars to address security risks posed by Chinese telecom equipment, ensuring the integrity of US telecommunications networks. Image: Huawei |
Washington, D.C., USA – December 8, 2024:
The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote on a defense bill that includes over $3 billion to fund the removal of Chinese telecom equipment from American wireless networks. The move aims to address security concerns associated with Huawei and ZTE, Chinese companies that have been accused of posing a threat to national security.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has estimated that the total cost of removing and replacing this equipment could reach $4.98 billion. While Congress has previously allocated $1.9 billion for the "rip and replace" program, the additional funding is crucial to ensure the completion of this critical task.
The U.S. government has been urging its allies to follow suit and remove Chinese telecom equipment from their networks. FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel has emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that a lack of funding could lead to the shutdown of some rural networks and disrupt essential services like 911.
Industry groups, such as the Competitive Carriers Association, have applauded the proposed funding, recognizing its importance in safeguarding national security and maintaining connectivity for millions of Americans.
The funding for the "rip and replace" program is expected to be covered by proceeds from a recent spectrum auction conducted by the FCC. This strategic move will help address the growing demand for wireless spectrum and ensure the continued development of advanced wireless technologies.