2023 Omnibus Bill Does Not Support Removing Untrusted Chinese Telecom Equipment from U.S. Networks

Arlington, VA (December 21, 2022) – The Telecommunications Industry Association—the trusted industry association for the connected world—released a statement regarding the recently released $1.7 Trillion Omnibus Spending Bill:

 

“While we applaud both parties for coming together to negotiate the 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, TIA was stunned to see that this package does not include the remaining $3.08 billion required for the Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program,” said TIA CEO David Stehlin.

“This program – to replace public network equipment from Chinese vendors who pose national security risks – has long had bipartisan support since it was initially created in 2019 and partially funded in 2020. Without this funding from Congress, the entire program is in jeopardy and these unsecure public networks will continue to operate while putting Americans and their information at risk.”

“It is urgent that Congress act now to fully fund this national security priority. We look forward to working with the 118th Congress to address this critical issue with the urgency it is due and to make measurable progress to ensure the security and resilience of America’s public networks.”

Contact

Dan Brown, (703) 907-7074, dbrown@tiaonline.org

About TIA

The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) represents more than 400 global companies that enable high-speed communications networks and accelerate next-generation ICT innovation. Through leadership in U.S. and international advocacy, technology programs, standards development, and business performance solutions, TIA and its members are accelerating global connectivity across every industry and market. TIA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).