WTA Files Comments on Section 4 of Secure Networks Act

On May 20, WTA filed comments in response to the Public Notice, released by the Wireline Competition Bureau, seeking comment on the applicability of Section 4 of the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 (“Secure Networks Act”) to the Commission’s rulemaking in its Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain proceeding. WTA stated that there is a clear directive from Congress for the Commission to separate USF from the reimbursement program, and as a result, USF cannot be used to fund the program. WTA also argued that it is not in the public interest for the Commission to use a 12-24 month transition timeline. WTA recommended that the Commission grant multiple individual extensions in order to preserve service in affected areas as well as make the transition from covered equipment more efficient, affordable, and less disruptive.