H.R. 5358: Timely Replacement Under Secure and Trusted for Early and Dependable Broadband Networks Act

This bill, titled the Timely Replacement Under Secure and Trusted for Early and Dependable Broadband Networks Act, aims to expedite the removal and replacement of certain telecommunications equipment that is deemed insecure. Here is what the bill would do:

Key Provisions

• Exemption from Environmental Reviews: The bill specifies that projects involving the removal and replacement of certain communications equipment will not be considered as major federal actions under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This means that these projects could proceed without undergoing the typical environmental assessments that normally accompany major federal projects.
• Exemption from Historical Preservation Reviews: Similarly, the bill indicates that these covered projects will not be treated as 'undertakings' under the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). As a result, they will not require reviews under the historical preservation criteria that usually help ensure that significant historical sites are protected.

Definitions

• Covered Project: A project is classified as a "covered project" if it involves the permanent removal of communications equipment that has been identified as insecure or compromised under the existing Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019, and is replaced with equipment that meets the necessary security standards.
• Federal Authorization: This refers to any required federal approval concerning a covered project, which may include various permits and certifications necessary under federal law.

Purpose and Context

The primary intention behind this legislation is to facilitate the swift replacement of communications infrastructure that poses security risks. By removing the usual requirements for environmental and historical preservation reviews, the bill aims to address vulnerabilities in telecommunications systems more efficiently, ensuring that the equipment used in these networks is secure and trusted.

Potential Impacts

In summary, the bill seeks to streamline processes for projects aimed at enhancing the security of telecommunications systems by eliminating certain regulatory hurdles. These changes could enable faster upgrades to communications infrastructure, potentially leading to improvements in network reliability and security.

Relevant Companies

• CAT: Caterpillar Inc. may be impacted if they are involved in providing equipment or services related to the replacement of insecure communication infrastructure.
• CSCO: Cisco Systems could be significantly affected, as they supply networking equipment and services that may need to be replaced under this bill.
• T: AT&T could also see impacts due to potential requirements for upgrading their communication systems in line with the bill's provisions.