FCC Proposes Fine Against ISP Over 'Rip and Replace' Inspection Dispute

May 28, 2026 — The Federal Communications Commission has proposed a $14,000 fine against New York-based internet provider Stealth Communications for allegedly refusing to allow federal inspectors access to facilities tied to the agency’s “Rip and Replace” reimbursement program.

According to the FCC’s Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture, Stealth Communications Services LLC denied inspectors access to two company equipment sites during scheduled compliance reviews conducted last November.