U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis has called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to expedite the distribution of funds for the “Rip and Replace” program. This initiative aims to eliminate Chinese components from wireless communication systems and replace them with secure equipment. The program’s initial funding of $1.9 billion is insufficient compared to the nearly $5 billion needed for complete removal and replacement of affected equipment. Without this funding, Wyoming communities risk losing access to telecommunications services.
Lummis emphasized, “Quickly disbursing funds for the ‘Rip and Replace’ program ensures small wireless and broadband carriers throughout the country will not be saddled with millions of dollars in costs that could result in service blackouts and disruptions to Americans.” She noted that this issue is particularly pressing in Wyoming, where connectivity challenges persist. The new funding would enable telecommunications companies to provide reliable access in rural areas while safeguarding communications systems from foreign threats.
In a February 2023 op-ed in The Hill, Lummis voiced her concerns about potential espionage by the Chinese Communist Party through broadband and wireless network equipment used in Wyoming. She stressed the urgent need for full funding of Rip and Replace.
Previously, Lummis introduced an amendment to fully fund Rip and Replace within an appropriations bill, ensuring continued access to reliable broadband and wireless services for Wyoming communities. Her amendment was incorporated into the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
A full copy of Lummis’s letter can be accessed for further details.
