Lawmakers are also expected to back $3.2 billion for an
emergency broadband benefit for low-income Americans.
The Federal Communications Commission said in June it had
formally designated China’s Huawei Technologies Co and ZTE Corp as threats, a
declaration that bars U.S. firms from tapping an $8.3 billion government fund
to purchase equipment from the companies.
Earlier this month, the FCC finalized rules that require
carriers with ZTE or Huawei equipment to "rip and replace" that
equipment but is awaiting funding from Congress.
Huawei said earlier this month it was disappointed in the
FCC’s decision "to force removal of our products from telecommunications
networks. This overreach puts U.S. citizens at risk in the largely underserved
rural areas – during a pandemic - when reliable communication is
essential."
The $7 billion COVID Relief Broadband Package
"establishes a temporary, emergency broadband benefit program at the FCC
to help low-income Americans, including those economically challenged by the
COVID-19 pandemic, get connected or remain connected to broadband," the
source said.
The source also said the program will supply a $50 monthly
subsidy to qualifying households "to help them afford broadband service
and an internet-connected device."
The bill also expands eligibility for the rip-and-replace
reimbursement program to communications providers with 10 million subscribers
or less but prioritizes reimbursement for providers with 2 million subscribers
or less, the source said, citing a draft fact sheet.
The bill is expected to include $285 million for connecting
minority communities and will establish an Office of Minority Broadband
Initiatives at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration
(NTIA).