The First Responder Network Authority — also known as FirstNet — would be reauthorized through fiscal 2037 under
FirstNet administers the nationwide public safety broadband network, an interoperable, high-speed network that police officers, firefighters, health care workers, and other public safety personnel use to communicate during emergencies and natural disasters.
Congress established FirstNet as an independent authority in 2012 based on the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation, after it found critical communications shortcomings in the attack’s aftermath. FirstNet authorities are set to expire in February 2027 under current law.
The bill would subject FirstNet’s actions to oversight and approvals ...