Lincoln, Nebraska – Legislators in Nebraska endorsed an amendment on Monday compelling businesses utilizing Chinese-manufactured components in their cellphone towers to promptly execute replacements.
The failure to adhere to this directive could lead to forfeiture of access to substantial subsidies traditionally utilized for network expansion purposes.
The underlying concern stems from the hundreds of intercontinental ballistic missiles scattered throughout the state, some in close proximity to cellphone towers that incorporate parts sourced from the Chinese telecommunication colossus, Huawei. According to the Department of Defense, the likelihood of this equipment being used for espionage on Nebraskan military bases, such as Offutt Air Force Base, cannot be discounted.
Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte underscored the urgency of the matter, asserting, “When you don’t act in good faith, it’s time to take other action.” Lawmakers claim that despite providing sufficient time for Viaero Wireless to supplant the Chinese components within its towers spanning the western two-thirds of the state, no substantial progress has been noted.
Previously, Viaero cited a misperception issue, arguing that the risk of their equipment being exploited for espionage was overblown. However, they expressed a willingness to undertake necessary remedial measures. In 2019, the Public Service Commission identified a minimum of 18 Viaero cell towers within Nebraska equipped with Huawei technology, one of which was in Humboldt, Nebraska.
Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln noted, “We believe there’s one company in Nebraska. We don’t know that for sure. That’s part of what this bill will help us uncover.” While Congress has earmarked funds for a “rip-and-replace” initiative, the FCC has indicated that requests have exceeded available funding by over $3 billion, leading many rural carriers to advocate for additional funding.
The sponsor of the bill affirmed that the proposed action enjoys support from Nebraska’s congressional delegation, the FCC, and the Department of Defense.
