Pfluger Introduces Bill to Prevent Loss of Cell Service in Rural Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) introduced the Supporting National Security with Spectrum Act, which fully funds the “Rip and Replace” program to remove Chinese equipment from our telecommunications networks.

Without full funding, wireless and broadband providers across the United States will be "saddled with billions of dollars in costs that could result in service blackouts and companies closing down," information from Pfluger's office states. 

Senator Steve Daines of Montana 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 our wireless communications systems. The Rip and Replace fund needs an additional $3B in order to finish its mission. The continued use of Chinese telecommunications equipment is a major national security concern, especially in areas that serve military bases, information states. 

The “Supporting National Security with Spectrum Act” fully funds the Rip and Replace program by requiring the Federal Communications Commission to re-auction certain spectrum licenses that were recently returned to the Commission.

Click HERE for bill text.

The bill is supported by the CCA - Competitive Carriers Association, NTCA - The Rural Broadband Association, NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, WIA - Wireless Infrastructure Association, WTA - Advocates for Rural Broadband, WISPA – the Association for Broadband Without Boundaries, ITI - Information Technology Industry Council, Rural Wireless Association, and TIA – the Telecommunications Industry Association.