Cybersecurity Policy Report, ‘Rip and Replace’ Efforts Among Hot Topics at CCA Show, (Sep 10, 2024)

By Paul Kirby

FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — Efforts to secure the remaining funding for “rip-and-replace” efforts to purge untrustworthy telecom equipment from U.S. networks was among the hot policy topics at the Competitive Carriers Association’s Annual Convention here today.

A mid-day keynote session featured remarks by FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks and CCA President and Chief Executive Officer Tim Donovan.

Efforts to secure the $3.08 billion shortfall for the Secure and Trusted Communications Network Reimbursement Program have not yet been successful, today’s speakers noted, expressing frustration.

“While the situation can feel dire, count me on the side that believes that we’ll get something done,” Mr. Starks said in the text of his remarks. “The original ‘rip and replace’ bill was bipartisan, and members of both parties are committed to finishing the job. But we need to keep raising this issue until we see it through. CCA has been one of the most effective voices in making the case for this funding but each of you can play a role too. Keep reminding members of Congress about the threat to our country if we continue to leave this shortfall unfunded. I’ll be doing the same.”

Mr. Donovan also expressed optimism.

“We’re right on the edge of securing the funding we need,” he said. “Our carriers are doing their part by complying with the mandate. Now it’s time for Congress to step up and fully fund this initiative. This is a bipartisan issue that impacts the national security and it must be addressed urgently.”

Mr. Starks also touched on the importance of cybersecurity and supply chain security.

“First, I’m proud to support NTIA’s C-SCRIP program, which, with the FCC’s support, shares supply chain security risk information with smaller trusted communications providers and suppliers. I hope that some of you have participated in these briefings because threat information sharing is a vital part of industry collectively staying one step ahead,” he said.

“Second, and let me be clear here, cybersecurity must be a priority for both providers and consumers. Where the Commission supports broadband networks, participants must create, implement, and update cybersecurity risk management and supply chain risk management plans that reflect an established set of cybersecurity best practices. It is crucially important,” he said.

“Creating and implementing these plans forces ISPs to think about the risks facing their networks and to act appropriately. But don’t just take my word for it. It’s so important that only last week the White House Office of the National Cyber Director recommended that ALL network operators should develop, maintain, and update a cybersecurity risk management plan,” Mr. Starks added.

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