In a concerted effort to bolster broadband infrastructure and mitigate supply chain disruptions, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Jerry Moran (R-KS) have reintroduced the bipartisan Network Equipment Transparency (NET) Act. This legislation aims to enhance transparency within the broadband supply chain, ensuring the timely execution of federal broadband initiatives.
The NET Act mandates the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to evaluate and report on the impact of supply chain disruptions on broadband infrastructure projects. Specifically, the FCC’s Communications Marketplace Report would be required to detail how such disruptions affect the completion or deployment of broadband projects. This proactive approach seeks to identify and address potential bottlenecks before they impede progress.
Addressing Supply Chain Challenges
The impetus for the NET Act stems from previous supply chain issues that have delayed the deployment of broadband infrastructure. A lack of transparency in the telecommunications supply chain has been identified as a contributing factor to equipment shortages, which in turn hinder the rollout of high-speed, reliable networks. By requiring the FCC to monitor and report on these issues, the NET Act aims to tackle obstacles that could derail federal broadband programs preemptively.
The reintroduction of the NET Act has garnered bipartisan support, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding broadband access nationwide. Senator Hickenlooper emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “Our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will connect every Coloradan to reliable high-speed internet. Supply chain disruptions delay the rollout of these projects. We have no time to waste.”
Senator Capito highlighted the necessity for federal agencies to proactively address potential deployment hindrances: “In order to effectively connect our communities, it’s critical that our federal agencies work to address any potential problems that would slow or hinder this process of deployment.”
Senator Peters underscored the broader economic implications, noting, “Resilient, efficient supply chains are essential to keeping prices low and ensuring Americans can access the products they need, including broadband internet.”
Senator Moran pointed to the specific needs of rural communities: “In this digital age, access to reliable internet can determine the success of farms, businesses and even health care in rural communities.”
The NET Act aligns with the objectives of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allocated substantial funding to accelerate broadband projects nationwide. By enhancing supply chain transparency, the NET Act aims to ensure that these investments translate into tangible infrastructure improvements without undue delays. This is particularly crucial for underserved and rural areas, where broadband access remains limited.
The reintroduction of the NET Act represents a proactive legislative measure to address supply chain challenges in the deployment of broadband infrastructure. By mandating that the FCC monitor and report on these issues, the Act aims to facilitate the efficient and timely expansion of broadband access across the United States, thereby bridging the digital divide and promoting economic growth.
