FCC Proposal to Address Security Risks to U.S. Communications Networks is Important Step Forward, Says TIA

Arlington, VA (April 17, 2018) – The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading association representing the manufacturers and suppliers of high-tech communications networks, today issued the following statement in response to the Federal Communications Commission’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to ensure universal service support is not used to purchase ICT equipment and services from certain providers deemed to pose a heightened security risk to U.S. communications networks and their supply chains.

Cinnamon Rogers, TIA’s Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, issued the following statement:

“The Telecommunications Industry Association has long supported efforts by the government to promote rural broadband deployment across the country by leveraging the Universal Service Fund (USF). If the Commission prevents the use of universal service support for purchases of communications equipment from vendors deemed to pose a national security threat, rural carriers will continue to benefit from a competitive marketplace for equipment that includes a number of trusted suppliers.

TIA takes supply chain security very seriously and supports the Commission’s efforts to address concerns regarding specific vendors. However, we also appreciate the Commission’s recognition that addressing security concerns requires cooperation across the federal government in partnership with industry. We look forward to working with the Commission on these issues.”