FCC Announces Additional $3.08 Billion for Rip-and-Replace Program

FCC Announces Additional $3.08 Billion for Rip-and-Replace Program

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has made available an additional $3.08 billion in funding for the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program (“Rip-and-Replace Program”). This funding, authorized by the Spectrum and Secure Technology and Innovation Act enacted on December 23, 2024, allows the FCC to fulfill its obligation to help providers remove insecure equipment and services from their networks.

The additional allocation brings the total program funding to $4.98 billion, addressing the significant funding shortfall that previously prevented many providers from completing their required network security upgrades. Recipients should now be able to move forward with their removal, replacement, and disposal work under the Secure Networks Act and Program rules.

Under the program rules, providers may file reimbursement requests beyond their initially allocated funds, and these previously pending requests due to insufficient funding can now potentially be processed. This is particularly important for providers who have been struggling with limited resources to meet security requirements.

If you have questions about how this additional funding affects your specific situation or need assistance with preparing documentation for reimbursements, please contact Brett Hallagan.