Houston Republic

Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) reintroduced the FirstNet Reauthorization Act, H.R. 3366, to promote public safety by ensuring first responders can communicate with each other in times of crisis.  Established in response to the first responder communication problems that occurred during 9/11, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) is a public-private partnership to operate a nationwide public safety broadband network.  The original legislation that created FirstNet included a sunset provision to terminate the program 15 years after its enactment.  This legislation reauthorizes FirstNet by striking the original sunset provision and making FirstNet permanent. 

“Our first responders rely on FirstNet to communicate with each other when our community needs them the most,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher.  “I am glad to introduce this legislation to make FirstNet permanent and ensure first responders have the communication tools they need to stay safe and support communities in times of need.”

As of January 2018, all 50 states and 6 territories have opted into the program.  FirstNet has been used in Texas by law enforcement agencies—including the Department of Public Safety (DPS)—to coordinate state and local agencies and manage state entry points and traffic flow.  Texas DPS has used this information to adjust response plans for fire service, law enforcement, emergency medical service, and other agencies essential for emergency response. 

Congresswoman Fletcher first introduced the FirstNet Reauthorization Act in the 117th Congress.

To view full text of the bill click here.

Original source can be found here.