For Immediate Release
Contact: Carolyn Just, 703-351-2015, [email protected]
Arlington, Va., (December 16, 2019)—NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association today issued the following statement from Chief Executive Officer Shirley Bloomfield regarding the House passage of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, the Broadband DATA Act and the MAPS Act.
“NTCA appreciates the efforts of Chairman Pallone (D-N.J.), and Reps. Walden (R-Ore.), Matsui (D-Calif.), and Guthrie (R-Ky.) to address communications supply chain security in a measured and thoughtful manner. NTCA supports more effective steps to manage risks in our nation’s communications networks and is pleased that the bill also rightly recognizes the need to ensure providers using equipment subsequently found to present such risks have the resources to remove and replace prohibited equipment.
"NTCA is also encouraged that mapping bills put forth by Reps. Dave Loebsack (D-Iowa), Bob Latta (R-Ohio), Donald McEachin (D-Va.) and Billy Long (R-Mo.) passed in the House. Improving broadband availability maps is essential for rural, community-based broadband providers to continue the mission of closing the digital divide.
“NTCA supports these bills, thanks the representatives for their continued leadership, and looks forward to working with them as these bills move forward.”
###