On Feb. 27, the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading U.S association representing the manufacturers and suppliers of high-tech communications networks, applauded the passage of the United States 5G Leadership Act.
On the bill's passing, David Stehlin, TIA’s Chief Executive Officer, issued the following remarks: “The Senate companion to the Secure and Trusted Communications Network Act, which was passed today, is a critical step in securing our network and ensuring the integrity of the telecommunications supply chain as we usher in the 5G era."
Per information from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), S. 1625, United States 5G Leadership Act of 2019 would: "establish a program, administered by the Federal Communications Commission, to reimburse some U.S. communications providers for removing and replacing certain equipment; prohibit federal funds from being used to purchase certain equipment; [and] impose requirements and create new programs to secure U.S. communications networks."
Stehlin's statement continued, "TIA will continue to expedite its Supply Chain Security program which is developing industry-driven standards, measurements, and benchmarking that form a consistent, common, and accepted set of global requirements that ensure the integrity of the ICT supply chain and enable new technologies to reach their potential.”"
The CBO notes that estimated budgetary effects of the bill would primarily stem from "reimbursements to communications providers," and "increases in spending subject to appropriation to create programs and issue reports."
Stehlin's remarks concluded, "TIA applauds this decisive action to support efforts for the replacement of equipment that raises national security risks with equipment from trusted suppliers. By passing the Act, Congress is also sending a clear signal to the global industry that the U.S. will continue to lead the way on 5G security. As the trusted industry association for the connected world, TIA appreciated the opportunity to contribute to policy discussions around the development of this legislation. TIA thanks Senator Wicker and Representative Pallone for their leadership in addressing this critical issue, and we look forward to prompt action by President Trump to sign this important bill into law."