Press Releases

Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) Introduces Bill to Help Small and Rural Broadband Providers Secure Their Networks

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) introduced the Timely Replacement Under Secure and Trusted for Early and Dependable (TRUSTED) Broadband Networks Act, a bill designed to help small and rural broadband providers secure their networks by removing and replacing insecure foreign telecommunications equipment.

The bill builds on the bipartisan Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, which provided funding to help small and rural providers replace insecure foreign-supplied equipment. Congressman Fry’s legislation streamlines that process by cutting through bureaucratic red tape and ensuring America’s communications infrastructure remains safe from foreign adversaries—notably, the Chinese Communist Party.

Specifically, the TRUSTED Broadband Networks Act:

• Exempts replacement projects from unnecessary reviews
  • Removal and replacement of insecure communications equipment (e.g., Huawei or ZTE hardware) will not be treated as a “major federal action” under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
  • These projects will also not be considered “undertakings” under the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
• Clearly defines “covered projects”
  • Permanent removal of communications equipment/services deemed insecure under the 2019 Act.
  • Replacement with secure, trusted communications equipment/services.
• Covers all federal authorizations
  • Streamlines permits, certifications, approvals, and other federal authorizations needed for covered projects.
• Cuts red tape for small providers
  • Ensures rural and small telecom providers can secure their networks without delays caused by duplicative federal review processes.
    

By expediting the removal of insecure, foreign-subsidized telecom hardware and accelerating deployment of trusted equipment, the TRUSTED Broadband Networks Act strengthens America’s communications networks, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

“Securing our broadband infrastructure is essential to protecting not only national security, but also the everyday lives of Americans who rely on fast, safe, and reliable internet,” said Congressman Fry. “The TRUSTED Broadband Networks Act puts our small and rural providers in a position to act quickly and ensures adversaries cannot exploit vulnerabilities in U.S. networks.” 

“CCA appreciates Representative Fry's leadership in reintroducing the TRUSTED Broadband Networks Act,” said President and CEO of Competitive Carriers Association Tim Donovan. “Our members participating in the Rip and Replace Program are committed to secure networks, and this important national security program should not face unnecessary delays caused permitting and siting challenges. Addressing these obstacles is important to keep the program on track to meet the timeline Congress intended and secure our nation’s networks. I commend Congress’s commitment to this important effort and urge swift action on this bill.”

Congressman Fry serves on both the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. To stay up to date with Congressman Fry and his work for the Seventh District, follow his official Facebook, Instagram, and X pages and visit his website at fry.house.gov.